The Wampanoag Club as the Newest to Strengthen the Gathering Glint of Clubs at 4C's

by Mallory West

At Cape Cod Community College (4C’s), some realized a need for there to be more recognition of indigenous peoples and their connection to 4C’s. “The idea of the Wampanoag came from former student Linzie White and me,” said Asher Hamilton, Coordinator of Student Life. “We both noticed that 4C’s is built on indigenous lands and [4C’s] has not reached out to the surrounding Wampanoag communities in a while.” 4C’s was built on land that belonged to indigenous people, and although there was a plan to reach out, it was set back because of COVID-19. The plan was also reduced due to “the changing demographics of 4C’s as reflected in our college equity plan,” said Hamilton.

Despite the setbacks, “a colossal outreach plan has recently developed to reach out to the Wampanoag community with programs and services,” said Hamilton. Hamilton feels much assurance in the work being done on behalf of 4Cs’ insurgent indigenous club for expression and education within the community.  “[The club’s] purpose is to provide an emotionally safe space where Wampanoag students can feel welcomed and part of their affinity group.”

Some upcoming events include a Zoom lecture by Linda Coombs, addressing the issue of Plymouth 400. Coombs, a Wampanoag Aquinnah Tribe Educator, is a determined advocate for indigenous civil rights. Club members also have different workshops at 4C’s to look forward to along the semester’s road. One workshop will be on “The Wampanoag Culture and Ways,” and another on “Peoples of the Dawn (Earth Studies).” These workshops will be hosted by Linda Coombs and Camile Madison. There will also be a themed dinner, “Taste of 2 Cultures at Plymouth,” and a Bi-Cultural Overnight Workshop held at Plymouth Plantations. Some of these events have accompanying fees as well, so for more information and on how to access these meetings and workshops, contact Asher Hamilton at ahamilton@capecod.edu. New members of this club have much to look forward to, whether its workshops and education or being a part of a safe emotional space for Wampanoag students here at 4C’s.

Categories: Clubs,