Episode 85 of Red Hoop Talk features Brian Wallace, a citizen of the Washoe Tribe and a Nisenan descendant, whose extensive career spans over 25 years of service to the Washoe Tribe. Known for his unwavering dedication to cultural preservation, environmental advocacy, and fostering cross-cultural partnerships, Brian is a respected leader in Native Country.

In this episode, Brian shares his family’s ongoing efforts to preserve their language, history, and ancestral knowledge. His work is at the forefront of Indigenous-led initiatives in cultural preservation and land stewardship. The discussion delves into the history of Northern California Natives and the devastating impacts of colonization, particularly during the California Gold Rush. Paid genocide, enslavement, and resource mismanagement devastated the region, leaving the original stewards of the land to undertake the monumental task of restoring their homelands and healing their communities.

Brian offers profound insights into the waterways of Northern California and their connection to original village sites, burial grounds, and ceremonial spaces. His life's work involves collecting, archiving, and researching his family's legacy, including the invaluable contributions of his Ancestor and family matriarch, Lizzy Enos. Renowned for her fluency in traditional language and lifeways, Lizzy’s knowledge was studied extensively by universities. Brian is now reclaiming and sharing that knowledge with her descendants, ensuring it remains within the community rather than confined to institutions.

Listeners can learn more about Brian’s efforts and support the Sierra Fund at sierrafund.org. Supporting the Association on American Indian Affairs amplifies the voices of culture carriers like Brian and keeps us connected to the rich heritage of Native Nations.