In 1989, seventeen tribes participated in the first modern Canoe Journey, the “Paddle to Seattle”, as part of the Washington State Centennial celebrations. This historic event soon led to annual Canoe Journeys and a cultural revival for Coast Salish tribes.

In part 1 we heard stories from tribal elders, this episode features perspectives from tribal youths on their experiences with Canoe Journey and why they participate.

This is part 2 of a 2-part episode

Panelists include:

• Mehana McCloud, Nisqually Indian Tribe and Puyallup Tribe of Indians
• Nettsie Bullchild, Director of Tribal Archives/Nisqually Tribal Historic Preservation Office and Tribal Elder, Nisqually Indian Tribe
• Owen Oliver, Quinault Indian Nation

Learn more at our tribal partners websites and fortnisqually.org.

Resources

Tribal Websites

• Puyallup Tribe of Indians: https://www.puyalluptribe-nsn.gov/about-our-tribe/heritage-division/
• Nisqually Indian Tribe: https://www.nisqually-nsn.gov/heritage/Medicine_Creek_Potlatch_Journey
• Quinault Indian Nation: https://www.quinaultindiannation.com/

Articles

• Tribal canoes participating in the Paddle to Seattle arrive at Golden Gardens Park on July 21, 1989: https://www.historylink.org/file/20269
• Tribal Canoe Journeys: Strength in Tradition: https://maritimewa.org/story/tribal-canoe-journeys-strength-in-tradition/
• Connie McCloud, Tribal Canoe Journey: A Way of Life: https://48north.com/lifestyle/tribal-canoe-journey-a-way-of-life/

Other

• “Paddle to Seattle 1989”: https://mohai.org/collections-and-research/search/item/2024.55/-%23.2/?searchQuery=Indigenous%20Peoples&modules%5B0%5D=item&pageNum=26
• Leimomiwaiwainui Canoe Family: https://www.facebook.com/leimomiwaiwainui