Swinomish people

Swinomish Blessing of the Fleet and First Salmon Ceremony 2013

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• published: 23 May 2013
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Swinomish Blessing of the Fleet and First Salmon Ceremony 2013 On a beautiful afternoon in mid May 2013 the Swinomish Indian Tribal Community were gearing up for this years annual Blessing of the fleet and First Salmon Ceremony. The blessing of the fleet and first salmon ceremony is the mark of the beginning of the annual fishing season, protect the Tribe's fishing fleet, and give thanks for the first catch of the year. Hundreds of tribal and community members gathered in the Swinomish gym to feast on a hearty lunch of salmon, prawns, crab and fry bread. After lunch, Swinomish Tribal chairman Brian Cladoosby asked the Edwards family to explain the song that would lead the procession. They thanked everyone for coming out and witnessing the event before leading the crowd down to the Swinomish dock. Following the Edwards family song the Swinomish Canoe Family took over and sang a song while the procession made its way near the dock where the blessing would take place. Key community members such as Brother Doug York, Shaker Church member Joe McCoy and Father Patrick Twohy gave prayers and told stories about the importance of the ceremony and gave their blessings to the fleet to stay safe during the season and makes sure they have enough fish for the community over the coming year. Four witnesses including Billy Frank Jr. from the Northwest Indian Fish Commission were instructed to take what they saw here and pass it along so this story will continue on. After the blessing, four boats took the ceremonial salmon out into the waters to feed the spirit. This ensures a healthy salmon run for all.