Distinguished Professor Charles Wilkinson of the University of Colorado at Boulder will read selections from his latest book, "Messages From Frank's Landing: A Story of Salmon, Treaties and the Indian Way" on April 16.
The free event will be from 7 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. at the Boulder Public Library Auditorium, 11th Street and Arapahoe Avenue, and is open to the public. A book signing and reception will follow.
The event is sponsored by the CU-Boulder Center of the American West, the Native American Rights Fund and the Boulder Public Library Foundation.
Wilkinson is CU's Moses Lasky Professor of Law and the author of 12 books about law, history and society in the American West. In his latest book, Wilkinson explores the historical, legal and social context of Indian fishing rights in the Pacific Northwest, as well as the life of one of the principal activists in this struggle, Billy Frank Jr.
Frank, an American Indian with a deep understanding of the area and his people, helped create a consensus that ultimately led to a 1974 ruling by federal Judge George H. Boldt affirming the treaty rights of Northwest tribal fishermen.
In "Messages from Frank's Landing," Wilkinson clarifies the complex and politically charged intersection of American Indian treaty rights, tribal sovereignty and internal politics, state game wardens, commercial fishermen, the U.S. Army, and state and federal judicial systems. He also conveys respect and responsibility for the earth and for the diverse communities of the world.
For information on the April 16 event call the Center of the American West at (303) 492-4879 or visit .
Wilkinson also will speak on April 26 at the "Hot Topics" luncheon series sponsored by CU-Boulder's Natural Resources Law Center at the offices of Holland and Hart at 555 17th St in Denver. The cost is $13, including lunch. For information call (303) 492-1272 or visit .