07/07/2026
We’ve been moved by the outpouring of support, solidarity, and messages we’ve received over the past several days from across the Hudson Valley and beyond.
After being invited to participate by event organizers of Sail4th 250, Clearwater sailed in the July 3rd Class B Parade, and commenced sailing in the July 4 Parade of Sail. About an hour after the parade began, Clearwater was directed by the U.S. Coast Guard to leave the parade route. When asked why, they cited the presence of banners reading "Save the Clean Water Act" and "Indigenous Rights, Racial Justice, Climate Solutions.” Neither the participation agreement nor the Captain's Handbook prohibited these banners, and we were never given the option to remove them and continue participating.
To learn more about what happened and how the day unfolded aboard the sloop, read our open letter from Executive Director David Toman and Captain Rory Kane.
Read the letter: https://www.clearwater.org/clearwater-blog/sail4th-250-parade-of-sail-update/
For more than 55 years, Clearwater has sailed the Hudson River carrying people, music, and a message of clean water, environmental stewardship, and hope. That work continues every time we set sail. Thank you for being part of this community and for standing with us.
