In reading the Board of Supervisors response to the Rattlesnake Island issue, I had to wonder if Jesus had set one foot on the island. How could they vote on the rights of private ownership?
It seems to matter little that the Pomo culture had control of the island. It was a place of deep spiritual meaning during their 10,000 years of living in Lake County. They are given no respect for its usage today. True, they never built one of the European-type majestic buildings for their place of worship on the island, the type that those who moved here revere so deeply. Given their partnership with nature in their spiritual beliefs, the vacant island was, and still is, sacred ground.
Because of the lack of respect that most religions in this country receive from both citizens and all levels of our government, the lessening of one person”s religious beliefs over another has caused wars, death and destruction to entire cultures and states in the past.
Isn”t it time we show a high-level of respect during these times? More than those from the past have done.
Jim Hall
Clearlake Oaks
