27th Annual Seneca Heritage Day

Description

The critical issue of clean water and watershed protection will be addressed during Middlesex Heritage Group’s (MHG) annual Seneca Heritage Day from 2-4 pm on Saturday, September 1 in Middlesex, NY.  This topic will be of interest to everyone in the Middlesex area, as the town is one of many within the Canandaigua Lake Watershed region.
 
“The critical issue of clean water and the protection of our watersheds is of critical relevance to those of us living in the Canandaigua Watershed region and in the greater Finger Lakes area,” says David Charland, Middlesex Heritage Group vice president.
 
Guest Jason Corwin (Seneca, Deer Clan) will discuss “Protecting our Vital Waters” and screen his 19” documentary, Defending Ohi:yo' in the Schoolhouse toward the end of the event. Corwin, a filmmaker and executive director of the Seneca Media and Communications Center, will explain the Seneca Nation’s opposition to a projected proposal that would allow for the transport, treatment and release of dangerous wastewater from hydraulic fracturing (fracking) into the
Allegheny River.
 
The Seneca Nation’s Allegany Territory is located 65 miles downstream from the project. Pennsylvania’s fracking water contains high levels of radiation. Although fracking is legal in Pennsylvania, it is illegal in New York State and not authorized on sovereign Seneca Nation lands. 
 
The event will also feature Bill Crouse (Seneca) leading the popular Allegany River Dancers—in full regalia—to share their traditional Hodinohsoni’ music and dance. Ganondagan State Historic Site Manager Peter Jamison will be the event M.C. Ice cream sundaes will be served and pies will be available for purchase. Events will take place at the Overackers Corners Schoolhouse, Route 364 and North Vine Valley Road, in Middlesex.
 
The traditional bonfire on Bare Hill signifying the “Ring of Fire” surrounding Canandaigua Lake will commence at dark following the afternoon festivities.
 
The Middlesex Heritage Group coordinates and partially funds the annual Seneca Heritage Day to honor and remember those people who lived in, and walked, the hills and valleys of what is now called “Middlesex.” The MHG is a small volunteer organization that records and disseminates the history of the area through meetings, a newsletter, and community events.
 
Additional event funding is provided by the Mitchell Community Family Leadership Fund, the Canandaigua Lake Watershed Association, and the Town of Middlesex. https://bit.ly/2tPEgwA