Press Release: 6/2/2025
Charles River Watershed Association and Indigenous Peoples Day Newton to Host Quinobequin Intertribal Paddle
BOSTON, MA – Charles River Watershed Association (CRWA) and Indigenous Peoples Day (IPD) Newton are co-hosting the third annual Quinobequin Intertribal Paddle on Saturday, June 28 on the Auburndale section of the Charles River.
The paddle celebrates the historic and continued relationship indigenous peoples in Massachusetts have with the Charles— originally named the Quinobequin. It will start at Newton’s Historic Boathouse, pass Norumbega Park, loop around Fox Island, and end at Auburndale Cove.
“It's important to get to know these rivers, like you know your neighbors. You can't just read about them, you have to go visit, see them in person, form a relationship with the river and each other,” said Hartman Deetz, a member of the Mashpee Wampanoag tribe and CRWA Indigenous Consultant.
The event will start with a ceremony conducted by Hiawatha Brown, a citizen of the Narragansett Indian Tribe of Rhode Island and a committee member for IPD Newton. Guest speakers will include Steve Peters, a citizen of the Mashpee Wampanoag Tribe; Julia Horinek, an activist and citizen of the Ponca Nation of Oklahoma; Dr. Darlene Flores of IPD Newton, who will discuss the sacred Taíno traditions of canoes; and Melissa Harding Ferretti, chairwomen from Herring Pond Wampanoag Tribe and Select Board Chair for the Town of Bourne.
Representatives from CRWA will also discuss its ‘Cut The Crap’ campaign, which aims to end sewer overflows in the Charles River through public awareness and mobilization.
Before European colonization, the Charles River flowed without interruption, and Indigenous communities relied on its migratory fish population for food, ecosystem benefits, and cultural survival.
All skill levels are welcome, and experienced paddlers will be in each vessel. This event is free for all Native participants. For non-Native participants, organizers suggest a $100 donation for adults and a $25 donation for youth under 16. There is also a pay-as-you-can option; no one will be turned away for lack of funds. This event is supported by a Massachusetts Office of Outdoor Recreation (MOOR) grant and a partnership with Paddle Boston. Those who cannot attend are encouraged to make a donation - all proceeds will support the 5th Annual Indigenous Peoples Day Ceremonial Celebration in Newton.
WHAT: Quinobequin Intertribal Paddle
WHEN: Saturday, June 28th, 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM
This event is rain or shine.
WHERE: Newton’s Historic Boathouse, 2401 Commonwealth Ave, Newton, MA 02466