Photo by Natasha Kavanaugh
Walkers leave the Elders platform to start down
the hill to Oak Flat.
Courtesy photo by Debbie Williams
Poppa Williams shows support to his sister, Nora
Williams, who put in 24.5 miles this year.
Photo by Natasha Kavanaugh
Jacob Williams and Nora Williams head up a hill along the long windy road to the
Illinois River.
For the second year, Jacob has joined his family on Run to the Rogue, finally being a part of
the culture he has longed for. “I was moved away young and my mother wasn’t native ...So
needless to say, I wasn’t brought up around the things I love and want to be a part of,” he said.
Memories that hold close to Williams: “The enthusiasm of the runners. The joy you see on the
faces of those who participated and the looks and waves of the Elders as they drove by in their
buses. They looked so joyed to see us honoring our ancestors and that’s what makes a differ
ence for me.”
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Siletz News
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October 2011