2011 commemorates the 22nd year of the Inter-Tribal Canoe Journey in the Pacific Northwest! This is an important cultural and spiritual event for tribes ranging from Bella Bella B.C., north of Vancouver Island, to Grande Rhonde on the Oregon coast. The journey links Indian youth to their culture, their elders, and to a life free from drugs and alcohol. It promotes healing, culture, civil society, community and leadership while developing organizational capacity.
As the traditional home of Chief Chetzemoka, Port Townsend has the unique opportunity to be a welcoming community for this important cultural event. Tribal arts and crafts will be sold by some of the journey participants and the community is encouraged to purchase these items as one way to help offset some of the costs associated with the journey. Due to the high numbers of canoe journey participants, community members are encouraged to use the transit and/or park off the grounds of Fort Worden to help alleviate traffic congestion on July 19.
The final destination of the journey this year is the Swinomish Nation near LaConnor with a multi-day celebration starting July 25 to July 31. For more information on the canoe journey go to: http://paddletoswinomish.com/. Financial and in-kind contributions to defray expenses for the tribes are welcome and appreciated. Financial contributions can be made to PT Quaker Meeting at 1807 Washington, Port Townsend, WA 98368 – please write Canoe Landing at the bottom of your check. Your role can be as small or as large as you want it to be - thanks for all you do on behalf of our community!