SEDRO-WOOLLEY (July 23, 2003) — The Upper Skagit Tribe has honored its elders, who continue to play a central role in the community, since before anyone can remember. While honoring elders takes many forms, one of the most important involves food. It has always been the duty of younger tribal members, especially fishermen, to provide for the previous generation.
This Wednesday, July 23, Upper Skagit Fisheries Department will be continuing this ancient tradition. Beginning around 12:30 p.m., tribal staff will deliver fresh Baker River sockeye salmon to the homes of local tribal elders. Besides providing a valuable food source for older native people, many of whom are unable to provide for themselves, this is an act of supreme cultural significance that signifies the importance of elders.
