Together on the Water: Celebrating Our Snuhwulh Family’s Journey
On July 24th, our Snuhwulh Family and KL support staff embarked on a week‑long journey in Kw’umut Lelum’s Lhqel'ts'qixune'tun (Moonbeam) canoe, where 15 youth paddled over 250 km to Elwha, Washington.
This journey was months in the making. Together, the youth prepared both on and off the water — building bonds through getting to know one another, learning protocol, sharing songs, and receiving powerful teachings from KL support staff. One of those leaders, Frankie Shaw, brought his own experience of attending Tribal Journeys as a youth with Kw’umut Lelum, now passing down his knowledge and teachings to the new generation.
Through calm waters and rough Salish seas, the youth supported one another, showing that transformation is possible even during life’s harshest storms. This spirit of unity was especially clear when a tsunami watch was issued on July 29th. In that high‑stress moment, our Canoe Family remained calm, demonstrating true teamwork and resilience.
On July 31st, Lhqel'ts'qixune'tun reached the shores of Elwha, safely carrying our youth to their destination. They joined more than 300 other canoes, where the air was filled with the strength of those reclaiming and celebrating their culture. In that moment, it was clear that our Canoe Family was not alone — each canoe travelled its own journey, yet all were united in paddling with the guidance of our ancestors.
The following day was filled with celebration and protocol, as Nations from across BC and the coastal US came together to share songs, teachings, and stories, honouring the legacy of their ancestors, and reconnecting with siiye’yu from near and far.
On August 2nd, our Canoe Family and support staff returned home, carrying with them not only memories but also transformation. The youth reflected on a life‑changing journey — one that required adversity, discipline, and teamwork. They forged strong bonds with each other and with the teachings that will continue to guide them.
We are incredibly proud of each youth — from those who paddled for the first time to the returning youth mentors who shared their knowledge and experience. Together, they showed that when we paddle as one, we move forward with strength, determination, and a deeper connection to the world around us – seen and unseen.
Honouring Our Canoe Legacy
Lhqel'ts'qixune'tun, which carried our Canoe Family this year, was carved from a 700-year old cedar log by Coast Salish artist Luke Marston, together with KL youth. Since its blessing in 2018, Lhqel'ts'qixune'tun has travelled in five Tribal Journeys.
Kw’umut Lelum first took part in Tribal Journeys in 2008. The canoe used then was carved by KL youth alongside Snuneymuxw artist Noel Brown.