Today, we honor the life and legacy of Billy Frank Jr., a prominent fishing rights activist, environmental leader, and member of the Nisqually Tribe, who played an integral role in re-affirming treaty fishing rights in Washington State. His grassroots organizing (including demonstrations and fish-ins – modeled after sit-ins of the civil rights movement), accompanied with several lawsuits, paved the way for United States v. Washington. This case was heard by the Supreme Court, which resulted in the landmark Boldt decision of 1974, recognizing that the treaties between the United States and tribes re-affirmed the right to fish, in “usual and accustomed grounds.” These treaties protect the legal right of tribal members to fish as they always had. At a time when we face unprecedented challenges to our rights and resources, it's important to look back and learn from activists like Billy Frank Jr. on how we can show up defend our hard-won rights, and care for the land and each other. ➡...