PUYALLUP RESERVATION, Tacoma, Wash. — Planning and preparation has hit full stride as the Power Paddle to Puyallup Youth Canoe Journey 2024 approaches, scheduled for July 31 to Aug. 5.
The Puyallup Tribe is hosting Youth Canoe Journey this year after the Ahousaht First Nation in Canada, this summer’s initial host for canoe journey, was unable to. Youth Canoe Journey is a chance for adults and Elders to pass on important teachings to young Tribal members, and is central to identity in youth knowing who they are and where they come from.
“We want to teach our children those traditional protocols to remember that everything really is based upon those prayers, those teachings that come from our ancestors,” said Heritage Division Manager Connie McCloud. “It’s about our way of life, it’s everyday living, it’s about giving thanks for what we have, and to be grateful and to give back. It takes a village to raise a child, it takes all of us to help teach, and if there’s anything I’ve learned about canoe journeys it’s that you’re always parenting regardless of age.”
“Hosting Youth Canoe Journey is important for many reasons,” said Puyallup Tribal Council, the Tribe’s governing body. “It is essential for youth to be part of these cultural events because they are the future of their Tribes.”
Holding a canoe journey is also part of the Tribe’s partnership with FIFA for the 2026 World Cup.
“We were planning a 2026 canoe journey, but it’s going to be forwarded into this year,” said Cultural Director Angie Totus.
“Our Puyallup Tribal culture, the northwest culture, our canoe culture will be viewed worldwide for two years leading up to 2026,” McCloud said.
“A common misconception with Youth Journeys is the belief that a Tribe must have a youth canoe to participate, but that’s not the case,” said Community Event Coordinator Chester Earl.
“We really want that message out there – everyone is welcome,” said Earl. “Our shores are open, but lift your youth up to be leaders when they come to our shores.”
