MARKSVILLE, La. (WNTZ) – The Tunica-Biloxi Tribe of Louisiana will commemorate Earth Day on Tuesday, April 22, 2025, with a series of community-focused events aimed at honoring and protecting the land that has sustained them for generations.

Committed to environmental stewardship, the Tribe’s annual celebration emphasizes sustainability and respect for nature, reflecting core values passed down through its history. This year’s event will highlight these commitments through community engagement, educational activities, and a symbolic Longleaf Pine Tree planting—a key part of Central Louisiana’s ecosystem and a tree historically used by Tunica-Biloxi ancestors in basket weaving.

In collaboration with the Tunica-Biloxi Education Department and Procter & Gamble, the event will feature family-friendly activities, including kite flying, a recycling relay race, and a community art project. Attendees can also participate in a Lunch & Learn discussion on the theme, “Protecting the Land.” A special ceremony with remarks from tribal and corporate leaders will precede the tree planting.

Event Details:

• Date: Tuesday, April 22, 2025
• Location: Northwest corner of Birch St. and Melacon Rd., Marksville, LA 71351

Schedule of Events:

• 10:00 a.m. – Community Activities
• 11:30 a.m. – Lunch & Learn: Protecting the Land
• 12:30 p.m. – Ceremony & Remarks
• 1:00 p.m. – Longleaf Pine Tree Planting

Featured Speakers:

• Marshall Pierite, Chairman, Tunica-Biloxi Tribe of Louisiana
• John Barbry, Director of Development & Programming, Tunica-Biloxi Tribe of Louisiana
• Brandon Vanderberg, Alexandria Site/Corporate NAN Affinity Leader, Procter & Gamble

The public is invited to attend and participate in the festivities. Media representatives are encouraged to cover the event, with opportunities for interviews available throughout the day.

For more information, please contact the Tunica-Biloxi Tribe of Louisiana.