The Second Bringing the Salmon Home Tri-Nation Cultural Gathering
Salmon have always brought our Nations together. Even though salmon have been blocked for over 85 years from returning to the upper Columbia River in BC, our Nations persist in gathering as Salmon Peoples.
The Indigenous Knowledge Council organized the second Bringing the Salmon Home Initiative Tri-Nation Cultural Gathering on January 24-26th, 2025 at Moccasin Square Gardens in Tk̓emlúps te Secwépemc.
This three-day “Gathering to witness for salmon” event was hosted by the Secwépemc Nation. Kúkpi7 Rosanne Casimir warmly welcomed all guests. We came together as members of the Secwépemc, Syilx Okanagan, and Ktunaxa Nations to strengthen our relationships around our shared vision to bring the salmon home again.
Salmon Warriors from each of the three Nations were invited to witness and participate. The young people’s positive energy and contributions were acknowledged and deeply appreciated by all.
The weekend gathering was filled with ceremony, gifting, and cultural exchanges to strengthen our bonds and processes for shared decision making. “What next” discussions around prioritizing fish passage in the Columbia were supported by technical presentations.
to bring the salmon home, and the work that still lies ahead. Participants committed to continuing to work at building trust and ensuring our relationships are based on mutual respect and understanding.
The first Bringing the Salmon Home Tri-Nation Cultural Gathering was hosted by the Syilx Okanagan Nation a year ago, in early March 2024. Following this recent gathering hosted by the Secwépemc Nation, the next gathering will be hosted by the Ktunaxa Nation.
These important events showcase the beauty and resilience of our Nations, highlighting the importance of unity and cooperation in our shared journey.
Together we are strong. Together we are bringing the salmon home to the upper Columbia River in BC.
Thank you,
~Bringing the Salmon Home: the Columbia River Salmon Reintroduction Initiative Team
