Tribe Celebrates Election of Chairman-Elect Tobias Vanderhoop
Tobias Vanderhoop, right, celebrates his election as new tribal chairman at the Aquinnah town hall. He was joined by his campaign manager Tiffany Smalley, Sophia Welch and Amira Madison, Sophia Welch and Michael Sellitti.
Tobias Vanderhoop, right, celebrates his election as new tribal chairman at the Aquinnah town hall. He was joined by his campaign manager Tiffany Smalley, Sophia Welch and Amira Madison, Sophia Welch and Michael Sellitti.
Chip, Buddy and Ellie Vanderhoop and Betty Joslow cheer for the chairman-elect.
Chip, Buddy and Ellie Vanderhoop and Betty Joslow cheer for the chairman-elect.
Thomas Fantasia wrote and performed song in honor of his brother, Tobias Vanderhoop.
Thomas Fantasia wrote and performed song in honor of his brother, Tobias Vanderhoop.
Victory was said to mark a generational shift in the tribe.
Victory was said to mark a generational shift in the tribe.
Tribal members dance to Mr. Fantasia's music in post-election community gathering.
Tribal members dance to Mr. Fantasia's music in post-election community gathering.
Approximately one hour after Tobias Vanderhoop, 39, was elected chairman of the Wampanoag Tribe of Gay Head (Aquinnah), tribal and community members gathered in the nearby Aquinnah town hall for an evening of celebration and dancing.
"This was about bringing a circle of energy back to our community, it was about making our people feel like we needed them, we loved them and they all have something different to offer," Mr. Vanderhoop told his supporters. "It is our victory, I thiank you all for everything you've done."
For more information about the election, see the article Vineyard Wampanoags Elect New Chairman, Marking Generational Shift.