Every year since 2009, Kw’umut Lelum has participated in Tribal Journey. This Pacific coastal canoe journey, with participants from hundreds of Nations, has offered a chance for our youth in care to connect with each other and with their culture. It is a welcome chance to build a stronger sense of self, to heal, to learn, and to have fun.

We pulled for a couple of hours in the heat, as it beat down on us it took its toll. We ended up being towed for short leg of the pull by our Swinomish relatives, totally saved the day, as our youth are being pushed to their limits. Once we broke off from the support boat a big ship was passing by and gave us the chance to test our might as the large waves cast from its motors barreled at us.

Our trip found us at the shores of the Muckleshoot tribe, another glorious voyage across sacred ancestral waters. With the sun glistening atop the waters, the wind on our face and the waters beneath us we were on top of the world.

As with everything in life there must be balance; when participating in so much culture and giving away so much in such a short timeframe we must remember to take care of ourselves. But more important is the idea of down time and introspection as self-reflection is an important aspect in our growth.

Pulling into sacred Swinomish lands was awe inspiring, gliding across the waters and pulling up to 3 massive gazebos in the shape of cedar hats – really enhanced the self-identity aspect of the journeys.