Pulling Together
An elegant and striking companion to the shoreline and the horizon beyond, the Semiahmoo First Nation canoe rests on the rocks at Snaw-Naw As First Nation Territory.
From reserve to reserve, 17 nations will embark on a ten day journey visiting tribal territories of the Coast Salish Peoples. Since 2001 ‘The Pulling Together’ canoe journey has brought together elders, at risk youth, volunteers and law enforcement with the intention of building new and lasting friendships and community.
A new canoe receives a blessing from an elder while women wait with cedar bows who will ‘brush off’ the canoe before it enters the ocean for the first time. (Snaw-Naw-As First Nation)
19 nations accompanied by support vessles including Navy and coast guard and local law enforcement. (Snaw-Naw-As First Nation)
A young girl on unnamed beach. (Coast Salish Territory).
Young people enjoying a swim. (Pauquachin First Nation)
As a sign of peaceful greeting and respect, canoe paddles are turned upwards when entering a new territory. (Tsartlip First Nation)
Taking a nap before lunch an aboriginal youth worker is buried in grass. (Penelakut First Nation)
Entering Sydney spit to meet Parks Canada and other local officials, Osoyoos First Nation canoe seen here is dressed with drawings and impressions made from mud brought from thier traditional lands . (Coast Salish Territory)
An Elder speaks. (Tsartlip First Nation)
Youth from Osoyoos taking a short break from paddling. (Coast Salish Territory)
Final reflections. (Tsawout First Nation)
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