The Fig Tree 2026 Spring Benefit Speakers

LaRae Wiley speaks in Salish

 

LaRae Wiley, founder and elder at the Salish School of Spokane, called up Chris Parkin, her husband and Salish School of Spokane principal to translate.

"I really want you to hear our language because it's beautiful. It's really critically endangered, so I want you to be able to hear it and how it sounds.

Translation: I am a leader at the Salish School of Spokane.

The Fig Tree has really helped us, even when we were small and there were just a few of us down in that basement with a few kids. Mary and The Fig Tree have helped me and they're still helping me and helping the school.

They are helping us tell our story and get the word out. So, thank you so much. You've done well by us.

I'm going to sing for you an honor song to honor your good heart at The Fig Tree.

Earlier, LaRae also wrote the following comments: I am honored to speak about The Fig Tree and its impact on our organization, Salish School of Spokane. In the Native community, our traditional stories are an incredibly important way we pass down knowledge, shared values and connect to each other through our own humanness.

By sharing stories, The Fig Tree, creates bridges between people and organizations. It weaves together a brilliant tapestry about the work that is going on in our community.

The Fig Tree, through the persistent sharing and advocacy of our successes, has opened doors to new relationships and steadfast partnerships.

We are grateful to the Fig Tree for all the stories that create all the little miracles and connections that support our mission of keeping our language alive.

Llim̓lm̓tx

To watch the 2026 Benefit Videos click here.