Gabriel Newton- an accomplished professional kayaker, artist, and orca advocate, will embark on a three day journey from Seattle to Olympia to personally deliver over 1,000 postcards and petition signatures to Governor Ferguson imploring the Governor to be a leader and commit to actions to protect and aid the recovery of the highly endangered orca population as well as the salmon on which they depend.

The recent death of a second calf of Southern Resident orca Tahlequah (J-35) has been a public and painful reminder of the tragic endangerment of the Southern Resident orcas that are threatened by lack of prey (chinook salmon), toxic pollution, and vessel noise and disturbance.

“I became enchanted by the Southern Resident orcas 20 years ago when I encountered a superpod of 23 orcas on a solo sea kayak journey through the San Juan & Gulf Islands. I now feel a responsibility to speak up for these majestic beings, whose voice can be more difficult for elected representatives to hear. I wanted to make our petition and postcards more impactful by paddling them the 65 miles from Seattle to the capitol in Olympia” said Newton.

WHO: Gabriel Newton, former professional kayaker, artist and orca advocate

WHAT: Kayak launch for a three day paddle for Southern Resident Killer Whales to Olympia

WHERE: Pioneer Square Habitat Beach, Washington Street Public Boat Landing, 199 Alaskan Way

WHEN: Monday, March 24 – Coffee, juices, pastries and signs provided.

8:30 – 9:00; Meet

9:00 – 9:20: Speeches

9:30: Gabe Departs

RSVPs not required, but appreciated.