2026 Paddle to Nisqually Medicine Creek Potlatch

SUPPORT THE 2026 CANOE JOURNEY

The Interfaith Network for Indigenous Communities (INIC) urges you to attend and support the 2026 Paddle to Nisqually Medicine Creek Potlatch hosted by the Nisqually Tribe July 31-August 5. Participation by people of faith and conscience offers respect and solidarity with Pacific Northwest indigenous peoples, cultures and communities. Hosting the Potlatch is a remarkable undertaking requiring hundreds of volunteers. INIC is encouraging faith communities and individuals to volunteer before and/or during the event.

Learn more about the event, volunteer opportunities, sponsorship, and paddle landings en route here: https://www.nisqually nsn.gov/heritage/Medicine_Creek_Potlatch_Journey

There are also ongoing opportunities to help with gift-making led by Nisqually tribal members noted here and on the flyer (we recommend you call first to confirm). These gifts will be given to guest tribal members.

If you are not in the Nisqually area, connect with your local tribe to learn if you could be of help or witness at a paddle landing.

Please contact Faith Action Network (fan@fanwa.org) to let us know if you are planning to volunteer or attend.

From the Nisqually Tribe: “Canoe Journey 2026, Paddle to Nisqually Medicine Creek Potlatch, continues an inter-tribal celebration and annual gathering of Northwest indigenous nations… The Canoe Journey has grown to include over 100 canoes and the participation of Canoe Families from other native canoe cultures, including Native American tribes, First Nations peoples, Alaska Natives, Inuit, Maori, Native Hawaiians, and other indigenous peoples from across the world… Canoe Journey gatherings are rich in meaning and cultural significance. Canoe families travel great distances as their ancestors did and participating in the journey requires physical and spiritual discipline. At each stop, canoe families follow certain protocols, they ask for permission to come ashore, often in their native languages. At night in longhouses there is gifting, honoring and the sharing of traditional prayers, drumming, songs and dances. Meals, including evening dinners of traditional foods, are provided by the host nations.

Download the flyer: INIC Urges Support for 2026 Canoe Journey.pdf