Ramapo Munsee Lenape nation flag to be flown in Ramapo this weekend
For the first time, the Ramapo Munsee Lenape nation flag will be raised at Ramapo Town Hall this weekend.
For the first time, the Ramapo Munsee Lenape nation flag will be raised at Ramapo Town Hall this weekend, elevating the nation’s history along with it.
It is expected to happen at 1 p.m. on Sunday.
"It's a celebration for all of our people here,” said Chief Dwaine Perry, of the Ramapo Munsee Lenape nation. “It's the truth coming forward."
"It's a very historical event and it's going to really start putting our people on the map,” says Bobby Gamble, of the Ramapo Munsee Lenape tribe.
Their land along the New York, New Jersey border, known as the Ramapo pass, played a role in the Revolutionary War.
Chief Perry says George Washington asked to station troops there and then did.
"If you look at that in this time frame, it would be impossible. The only way that the British could really resupply their troops in a meaningful way is off the Atlantic or march them down through Canada. And in addition, it eliminated any strategic advantage and/or surprise," explained Chief Perry.
"At one time in history, it would have included north of 70,000 people. Today, we barely have 3,000 to 5,000 people -nationally," said Chief Perry. "I think people need to know that if it were not for our ancestors, there would not be a New York, a New Jersey, or a United States of America. Now that's a very big mouthful for people who are teetering on extinction."
After the flag raising on Sunday afternoon, the chief encourages people to join them at the Brook Presbyterian Church in Hillburn.
