This momentous occasion sparked a revival in canoe culture amongst the Indigenous peoples across the Pacific Northwest, where now every year a different tribe along the coast will host the Canoe Journey and welcome other tribes to their shores.
This year’s event is the first after a hiatus during the pandemic years and will be hosted by the Muckleshoot Tribe, where thousands of paddlers and visitors will be welcomed onto the shores of the central Puget Sound.
What Happens During the Canoe Journey
For some canoe families, the Canoe Journey starts over a month in advance. Many groups must travel long distances to get to the shores of the host tribe in time for the landing date. Tribes from up and down the Pacific Northwest Coast in Washington, Oregon, British Columbia, and Alaska have participated. As the canoe families make their way to the host destination, they are welcomed to the shores of other participating tribes to rest, learn their traditions, and share some of their own.
Once the canoe enters the host tribe’s waters, protocol begins. It is customary to wait with paddles facing upwards as a way of asking permission to land ashore. They will do this until they are invited to shore, sometimes waiting hours. This is part of ancient tradition as a way of honoring and respecting the other nation they are visiting. For a whole week, tribes will take turns sharing their knowledge, which includes each tribe’s traditional songs and dances. This ceremony that stretches out over many days is known as “protocol.”
Canoe families and spectators will share food together, discuss important topics facing their communities, and enjoy each other’s company.
Canoe Journey 2023: Paddle to Muckleshoot
Host: The Muckleshoot Tribe
Landing Date: July 30th
Protocol: July 31st – August 6th
Official Theme: Honoring Our Warriors Past and Present
Stonington’s exhibition celebrating and reflecting this event, The Power of Water, will feature a diverse group of work that explores not only the traditions of the Canoe Journey event but touches on the meaning behind this wonderful gathering: reconnecting with vibrant cultural traditions rooted in honoring the water. We’re really looking forward to the next two months of art, travel, and ceremony!
