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Rediscovering Donnel Point: Indigenous Groups Battle for Preservation

Update Rediscovery of Donnel Point: A Cry for Preservation Flanked by towering chemical plants and oil rig construction yards, the rediscovery of Donnel Point on Corpus Christi Bay has ignited a fervent campaign for preservation led by Native American groups in South Texas. Once deemed lost beneath industrial sprawl, this ancient settlement site offers a potentially vital link to the history and culture of the Karankawa and Carrizo/Comecrudo tribes. This remarkable find was made last summer when local geologist Patrick Nye noticed a dense deposit of shells while boating, leading to collaboration with local academics to validate the site’s historical significance. A Narrative of Erasure and Resilience Historically, many Indigenous sites along the Texas coast have been systematically destroyed to make way for urban development and petrochemical infrastructures, which are prevalent in the state’s industrial landscape. As Love Sanchez, founder of Indigenous Peoples of the Coastal Bend and a Karankawa descendant, remarked, "We’re not just talking about a geographical point on the map; we’re talking about a place that holds memory," underscoring the profound connection Indigenous peoples have with the land. Despite the narrative propagated through textbooks that suggests sparse populations were present at the time of American settlements, archaeological findings indicate that these coastal areas were once thriving hubs of activity. Profoundly affected by historical violence and cultural erasure, the Indigenous community sees the ongoing fight for Donnel Point as more than just an environmental issue; it is a struggle for identity and cultural survival. Current Threats to Cultural Heritage The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is currently reviewing a dormant permit that could open the door for the establishment of an oil terminal where Donnel Point resides. This move stands in opposition to the hopes of preservation advocates, who envision a site that can serve as a testament to their ancestors' lives. Previous experiences, such as the destruction of another ancestral site in McGloin's Bluff, have heightened concerns among local Indigenous leaders. The Road to Preservation: Legal and Cultural Strategies The campaign to protect Donnel Point represents a burgeoning movement among Indigenous activists and allies, striving for formal recognition and protection of what could be the last intact Indigenous settlement in the region. Efforts include notifying the Texas Historical Commission and raising public awareness through social media and local outreach initiatives. Sanchez’s journey, ignited by witnessing Indigenous solidarity during the Dakota Access Pipeline protests, has turned into a mission that aims to keep the connection between past and present alive. However, the odds appear daunting. In Texas, legal avenues for preservation often lead to mere excavation of artifacts instead of holistic protection of the land, a stark reminder of the ongoing struggles Indigenous communities face in advocating for their rights. The potential for government influence, as state commission appointments are dictated by political contributions from the fossil fuel industry, adds another layer of complexity to the preservation efforts. Calling for Action: Why Donnel Point Matters The rediscovery of Donnel Point is more than an archaeological milestone; it serves as a crucial moment of reckoning for Indigenous rights and historical truth. This site encapsulates ancestral stories that challenge the established narrative of extinction. As noted historian Tim Seiter articulates, the disappearance of Indigenous peoples from historical accounts is not only an oversight but part of a broader effort to erase their existence from the land. This reality further fuels the urgency for action and support. By protecting Donnel Point, we can prevent further cultural erasure and recognize the historical significance of Indigenous contributions to Texas's heritage. The voices of young community leaders like Sanchez are paving the way for acknowledgment and visibility for their ancestors and descendants, fostering hope for future generations. Embracing Indigenous Heritage: Community Involvement As the fight for Donnel Point unfolds, the call for community involvement cannot be overstated. This undertaking is essential for rallying support and ensuring that the site receives the attention and protection it rightly deserves. Whether through petitions, public speaking events, or educational outreach, local residents can play a pivotal role in amplifying the message that Indigenous history matters, and it is deserving of preservation. Ultimately, the story of Donnel Point is a powerful reminder of resilience amid adversity, illustrating the tenacity of Indigenous communities in guarding their cultural legacies against the tides of time and development. Call to Action: Uniting to safeguard Donnel Point represents a crucial opportunity for action. Every voice matters in amplifying the significance of Indigenous histories within Texas. Join local initiatives to raise awareness, support cultural education efforts, or reach out through social media to help elevate this vital cause for preservation.