The September opening of Deer Creek Woods East (600 Lake Road, Ontario, NY 14519) included the ceremonial planting of a White Pine Tree of Peace. We’re grateful to Trish Corcoran (below) and flutist Dr. Jefferson Svengsouk for sharing this special Haudenosaunee ceremony with the 160+ event attendees.
Trish Corcoran is Tonawanda Onondowaga, Bear Clan. She teaches Indigenous and Environmental studies at the Harley School to all grade levels. The Pollinator Garden and Wild Wood are under her care and have gained over one hundred trees planted by students.
She is chair of planning Rochester’s Indigenous Peoples’ Day each year and running educational events throughout the year. Trish also serves on the indigenous Advisory Council for the Climate Solutions Accelerator, the Seventh Generation Land Defenders, and the Indigenous Peoples’ Health Coalition.
She is a collaborator on “Remnants”, an immersive walking art installation that uncovers the history of the land. Most of all she is the proud mom of Bjarne and Eva, who love to hike and camp amongst all their relations.
