Premier’s Statement on Tribal Journeys Canoe Voyage

STATEMENT
For Immediate Release
2008OTP0196-001175
July 28, 2008

Office of the Premier

COWICHAN BAY – Premier Gordon Campbell made the following statement today as the annual Tribal Journeys Canoe Voyage comes to a close, setting the stage for the 2008 North American Indigenous Games. Canoes from Aboriginal communities in B.C., Oregon, Washington, and other regions began their journey earlier this month and land today at Cowichan Bay. In total, over 100 canoes participated in this year’s journey:“Congratulations to all of the participants in the largest-ever Tribal Journeys Canoe Voyage, marking the beginning of the 2008 North American Indigenous games here in British Columbia. By completing this incredible journey, you have demonstrated dedication, commitment, and strength of spirit.

“The Tribal Journeys voyage recalls the importance of the canoe in the traditional harvest and trade economies of the Coast Salish Tribes and its sacred place in centuries-old First Nations culture. That culture is based on respect for elders and others, as well as for the land, sea and air which have supported indigenous peoples for generations.

“I also want to congratulate both the organizers and participants for their hard work and determination in making the games and the Tribal Journeys Canoe Voyage an enormous success. The values of mutual respect and spiritual and physical growth embodied by these events are shared by all British Columbians.”

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Media contact:

Bridgitte Anderson
Press Secretary
Office of the Premier
604 307-7177