Pulling Together Canoe Journey reaches Coquitlam

The 25th annual Pulling Together Canoe Journey has reached Coquitlam as crews paddle through the traditional territories of several First Nations along the Fraser River.

More than 220 Indigenous participants, youth, police and public-service personnel are involved in the Aug. 15-22 journey, themed Reclaiming Our Waters. About a dozen canoes entered the Fraser River on Aug. 17, including a Tsawwassen First Nation canoe returning to the event after several years away.

The route began in the Agassiz area at Sts’ailes First Nation, then continued through Katzie First Nation territory at Barnston Island and to a camp at Kwikwetlem First Nation. The journey promotes healing, reconciliation and respectful relationships among Indigenous communities, police and government agencies.

Stops include Sapperton Landing Park in New Westminster for a traditional paddles-up acknowledgement of Qayqayt First Nation representatives. Tsawwassen First Nation is to host a Legacy Culture Day at Wellington Point Park in Delta on Aug. 20, before participants paddle to Tsawwassen for a closing circle on Aug. 21.

Pulling Together Canoe Society president Betty Kruger-Cardenas said the shared experience of paddling, working and camping helps participants learn from one another. Indigenous communities have partnered with RCMP, Vancouver Police, the Royal Canadian Navy and other agencies on the annual journey since 2001.