Letter to the Editor: Says Chickahominy Indian Tribe-Eastern Division should have input in Makemie Woods development

The recent announcement that New Kent has begun early planning stages for the conversion of Makemie Woods into a park presents both promise and concern. New Kent Parks and Recreation Director Kim Turner outlined various development concepts as well as upcoming community engagement efforts and assessments of infrastructure and acreage limitations.

This is precisely the moment when the Chickahominy Indian Tribe-Eastern Division should have been consulted. The Tribe has a deeply rooted cultural and ancestral connection to the area known as Makemie Woods, a fact the county was fully aware of. Yet, despite our legitimate interest in acquiring the property, there has been no government-to-government engagement or meaningful dialogue as plans progress.

It is important to note that the Tribe has reached out to the county on multiple occasions, including submitting formal requests to be placed on the agenda of a Board of Supervisors meeting, without success. These efforts demonstrate our good faith commitment to dialogue and collaboration, but they have been met with silence. This lack of response is troubling and undermines the county’s stated commitment to community engagement.

Meaningful consultation with Tribal nations is not only respectful; it’s essential. Tribal cultural heritage includes sacred landscapes and historically significant lands that go beyond mere property lines. As stewards of both policy and public trust, county officials have a duty to ensure that land use decisions account for the voices and rights of Indigenous communities.

I urge the Board of Supervisors and Parks and Recreation leadership to immediately initiate formal, government-to-government consultation with the Chickahominy Indian Tribe-Easter Division, include Tribal representatives in all forthcoming community engagement forums, and explore co-management or cultural interpretation opportunities.

Makemie Woods presents a rare opportunity to model how local government and Tribal nations can collaborate, honoring Indigenous heritage while expanding public access to green spaces. Let us not repeat past oversights; let us lead with respect.

Jessica Phillips
New Kent