This years Lamprey Celebration brought together many people to honor and reconnect with the importance of protecting a special and ancient fish.
The k’suyus, or asúm, known in English as the Pacific Lamprey has been a traditional food and a medicine to the People since time immemorial. This ancient relative returns in an annual cycle to the waters of the Columbia and Willamette rivers, and especially to Willamette Falls, providing essential nutrients that sustain our ecosystem. It is our responsibility to continue to restore the health of the water in order to maintain the circle, and protect life.
This is why this years Lamprey Celebration, and the hundreds of people that came to be a part of it, is so important. We had traditional dances, songs, and foods in order to share with each other the reminder that we are a part of this important reciprocal relationship.
Our elders and leaders spoke, and youth as well, providing the wisdom and direction needed to build a better future.
Through community partnership, Tribal leadership, and the support of our elected officials, we are moving forward and elevating these important issues, healing the Falls - and working to pass on a healthier planet to the next generation.
