Reflection

I am a Mainer. I live right on the coastline of Maine, and I can see that lobstering is a massive part of Maine's identity. When I heard about the right whales decline in population and the reasons behind the cause I was inspired to create a piece. When visiting Bar Harbor with family, I was allowed a view of the hypocrisy of the Maine fishery and commercial salesman who make livings off of the sea. I got to see a right whale in person due to these industries. I created what I did to inspire the people of Maine to be mindful of their impact on the ocean. Because I decided to do this piece, I have learned more than I was expecting to; I learned that the whales need our help, that they are beautiful, and that we need to act soon. I plan to do my best to support efforts of improved fishing gear by only buying seafood that is MSC certified, which can help to reduce bycatch, which kills whales and other marine life.