This weekend four  Nisga'a Canoes from three Nisga'a communities(Gitmaxmakay', Gingolx, and Gitlaxt'aamix) embark for Gitgaat (Hartley Bay) to participate in the 8th annual Gathering Strength Canoe Journey.

In total the Nisga'a contingent is estimated to be 60 participants, mainly youth with support from elders and the canoe leaders (Malena Joseph-Gitmaxmakay', John Moore-Gingolx, Gerald Robinson and Leanord Guno-Gitlaxt'aamix). Three Gil-net support boats and one tender speed boat will accompany the contingent as the canoes trek along the seven day journey.

As Gerald Robinson shares: "Being on the water is a place to connect to the land, travelling in a canoe allows you to release your challenges in life to the water, embrace the opporunity to come out of your comfort zone, enjoy the opportunity to meet new people from other first nations and organizations".

The four Nisga'a Canoes will be joined by Heiltsuk, Haisla and Gitgaat Nations along with DFO and RCMP canoes. It is estimated that there are 155 pullers in nine canoes this year.

Gathering Strength Canoe Journey begins on August 5, 2012 in Gitgaat and will be completed on August 12, 2012 in Metlakatla BC. Ferries to Metlakatla BC from Prince Rupert will be operating that day, call Metlakatla Ferries in advance to verify ferry times.