Crews in about 50 canoes, paddled by members of more than 30 Indian tribes, celebrated the Tribal Journeys to Tulalip and the end of ocean journeys with the beginning of a potlatch.

Each departed two weeks ago from their respective bays: as far north as Kyuquot on Vancouver Island, as far west as Taholah in Grays Harbor County and as far south as Squaxin Island near Olympia. Yet their goals were the same: a chance to unite in friendship as their ancestors did during summer. The event was dubbed Journey 2003, and organizers said such trips have been held since 1989.

“Healing Through Unity” only happens when we are together, creating history and keeping our traditions alive while promoting good health, drug and alcohol resistance and embracing good fortune.