Dozens of people from the Puyallup Tribal community, including Tribal youth, took part in the three-day Gathering of Native Americans Spring Break Camp (GONA) at Winners Gym from April 8 to 10.
The three-day camp was organized by the Culture Department and aims to strengthen Native American identity and culture through teachings of four Indigenous themes: belonging, mastery, interdependence and generosity.
The first day of the camp covered belonging and mastery, while the second day focused on interdependence. The theme of the final day was generosity.
Puyallup Tribal members Peggy McCloud and Ramona Bennett were among the speakers.
After having the chance to listen to the speakers each day, Tribal youth and their families were able to sit down and craft a variety of things, including keychains, magnets, salmon necklaces and more.
The Tribe purchased the gym and the former Tacoma Christian Center in 2022. The gym has given the Heritage Division a more spacious location for classes and other indoor events.
