A review of Matika Wilbur's 'Project 562: Changing the Way We See Native America'

Like many of my neighbors, I made plans after work on April 25th to join in celebrating Matika Wilbur's anticipated new book release "Project 562: Changing the Way We See Native America." I have followed Wilbur's amazing cross country journey, mostly through her beautiful imagery and riveting stories posted on social media the past ten years. So when I first found out there was going to be a book of her journey in visiting all 562 federally recognized tribal nations, I was really, really looking forward to it. As a photographer myself, I have long admired her storytelling through the breathtaking portraits she has taken.

The book was much bigger than I anticipated it to be. At over 400 pages, it is not a quick read. And frankly, it shouldn't be. This book is meant to be read thoughtfully - savoring and immersing oneself, really understanding the stories and lessons from the tribal members' perspectives.

The book is very well made and feels nice and sturdy in my hands. The photographs are vibrant and sharp, the paper is thick. I feel as though I am looking right into the eyes and spirit of each person who is telling their story. The lighting of each portrait is absolutely magical and fits the context of each story so well. Some are colorful and exuberant, some soft and sweet, some edgy and raw. Matika's writing is meticulous, insightful and thoughtful. It is clear to me that she gave herself completely to this project and in return, her subjects gave themselves to her – and in turn to us. What a gift to us all.

One of my favorite interviews is with Dr. Adrienne Keene, a citizen of the Cherokee Nation. Keene explains what it was like being a Native person and not living on the reservation and for me personally, it is probably the "Aha!" moment that I really connected with this book on a different level. Keene says, "My perspective as a Native person is valid, because it is a Native perspective, because I am a Native person and that being able to just release that shame of, I didn't grow up with my traditions, I didn't grow up in ceremony, I didn't grow up with access to a lot of that stuff. But that's okay and that's not my fault."

Whoa. That's me! And yes, it IS okay that I didn't get the chance to grow up with my traditions. My perspective IS valid and I matter too. Life changing moment for me right there.

In summary, this is hands down, the best book I have read in a long time. My advice? Put down the history books of the past and pick this one up for now and in the future. Read it, have thoughtful discussions with others and take positive steps toward action.

Gunalchéesh, Háw'aa, Thank You Matika, for listening, for advocating and for inspiring us all.

Sarah Walls is a Shelter Bay resident, a descendant of the Lummi Nation and of the Haida and Tlingit tribes, She is a member of the Snohomish tribe and Sealaska, a wife, mother, community volunteer and voice and local landscape photographer.