EarthEcho International and our global community of young ocean advocates are thrilled to celebrate the designation of the Chumash Heritage National Marine Sanctuary! The first Tribally nominated National Marine Sanctuary in the United States is the result of a 40-year campaign by Tribal and community leaders which has led to the first new sanctuary in more than 30 years where one of the primary purposes is the protection of nature. The Sanctuary will advance Tribal collaborative co-stewardship while protecting critically important marine wildlife habitat and culturally significant ocean waters along California’s central coast. 

Over the past several years, young ocean advocates from our programs have collaborated with the Northern Chumash Tribal Council and a network of partners to build support for the Sanctuary nomination. We are honored to join this incredible community in celebrating this historic moment, congratulating the Northern Chumash Tribal Council and all involved for their tireless dedication to this vision. We also thank NOAA for their work to designate the Sanctuary, and look forward to building on this momentum and model for future ocean protection efforts. 

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“The Ocean is a place of refuge and joy for many young people on the Central Coast of California. Thanks to the leadership of Chumash peoples, who have stewarded this ocean since time immemorial, the historic designation of the Chumash Heritage National Marine Sanctuary from NOAA and the Biden-Harris Administration will ensure that the Central Coast may be protected for the access and enjoyment by young people for generations to come.” - Kai Tran, EarthEcho Youth Leadership Council member 

“This historic milestone highlights a pivotal moment in U.S. history, as the government takes meaningful steps toward recognizing Indigenous sovereignty and promoting cultural practices. This initiative embodies Etuaptmumk, or two-eyed seeing, a powerful concept that combines Indigenous and Western worldviews to create more resilient solutions. The leadership of Violet Sage Walker and Northern Chumash Tribal Council provides a wonderful example of what can be achieved through this holistic approach. I look forward to the continued collaboration that will steward this sanctuary, deepening our community's understanding of the intersection of culture and science.” - Aidan Wells, EarthEcho Ocean Protection Ambassador 

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