Recent media coverage, including by The Durango Herald (Herald, July 11, July 14) and Colorado Politics, referenced the Southern Ute Tribe’s statement about my visit. While I fully respect the tribe’s right to clarify its position, I would like to offer some additional context that was not reflected in the reporting.
My visit to Peaceful Spirit was deeply personal. I was invited by a respected tribal elder who served as one of my counselors during my time in treatment many years ago. Returning to that space after 16 years of sobriety was profoundly meaningful for me, and I was honored to be welcomed back into the circle during the sweat lodge.
At no point did I intend to imply that I was there in any official capacity or that I had received a formal endorsement from the Tribal Council. My intention in the short video I shared was to express my heartfelt gratitude to one of my former counselors and to honor the people who helped guide me into a new life of recovery.
If that intention was misunderstood, I truly regret any confusion. I have deep respect for the Southern Ute Tribe and its leadership, and I remain grateful for the role the tribe played in my healing journey. I continue to hold space for dialogue, mutual understanding and working together in a spirit of respect.
Hope Scheppelman, Candidate for U.S. Congress, CO-3
Bayfield
