“We need to be one. We don’t need this fish farm stuff to separate us. I know it’s so easy to take money. Money is a big thing in this world today, but that fish means more to me than that.” ~ Tsu Tsii In (Alton Watts)
In November 2025, hundreds of First Nations hereditary leaders, matriarchs, fisher families, and allies gathered in hupač̓asatḥ and c̓išaaʔatḥ territories (Port Alberni) for a landmark Migratory Salmon Potlatch.
The gathering was hosted by Ḥupač̓asatḥ Ḥawił (Hereditary Chief) Tsu Tsii In (Alton Watts) and Ḥiškʷiiʔatḥ Elder/Artist Aniičačist (Tim Paul). The Potlatch purpose was to deal with the complex topics of getting fish farms out of coastal waters and restoring a natural balance for Salmon, and for hereditary leaders to sign a united declaration for Migratory Salmon.
On Saturday, November 1, the first day of the two-day Potlatch, we completed our protocols and ceremonies to bless the floor and help the spirit world align with the physical world. People clapped their hands and cheered after every speaker, and sometimes even after the dances. The children were buzzing, cheeks red from running, playing, and laughing, plus an abundance of Halloween candy.