A smaller Blessing of the Fleet last week

One of the biggest local events of the year was scaled back last week due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.

But despite smaller numbers, it was still a big deal.

The annual Swinomish Indian Tribal Community Blessing of the Fleet ceremony, which in normal years draws 500 people or more, focused on quality rather than quantity last Wednesday.

It was a relatively small – but appreciative and thankful – gathering that assembled to celebrate the first catch of the season, pray for a safe fishing season and bless the tribal fleet.

While restricted to a smaller format, the 2021 Blessing of the Fleet was the latest edition of a ceremony taught from one generation to the next.

“We were grateful to continue the ceremonies of our ancestors,” Swinomish Cultural Events Director Aurelia Bailey, who oversaw the prawn cooking, said afterward.

Despite mandated limited attendance, there was plenty of star power on hand.

Lorraine Loomis, who chairs the Northwest Indian Fisheries Commission and writes the monthly “Being Frank” column for regional publications, helped package food distribution items and supervised the day’s crab cooking.

Father Pat Twohy, 82, who formerly resided on Swinomish Reservation before devoting his ministry to urban Native Americans, returned from Seattle to participate in the blessing. A revered figure at Swinomish, Twohy is noted for blessing the fleet in the traditional Lushootseed language.

Prior to the virus crisis, Blessing of the Fleet included a massive feast at the Swinomish Gym followed by a shoulder-to-shoulder march on Pioneer Parkway to Moorage Way for ceremonies at the shoreline.

Though minus many of its usual festivities, this year’s event covered the core values of the Blessing of the Fleet – maintaining tribal values of environmental protection and honoring the role of traditional foods – in the midst of trying times.

“We’re blessed to have a staff and committee that works so diligently to maintain our fishery,” said Swinomish Tribal Senator Brian Porter. “We rely on our resources for sustenance and financial means to support our families and our community.”

It was Swinomish fishers who provided the catch for the day’s food distribution. Many volunteered to prepare the meals.

“It was an honor,” said Bruce James, “to help prepare some culture foods for our Swinomish community.”

“There was lots of hard work and lots of laughter shared,” added Tribal Senator J.J. Wilbur, one of the seafood cooks.

Amid the sharing of history and food, there was a good omen for the future circling above those at the Blessing of the Fleet.

Hovering aloft and sometimes swooping low throughout the ceremony were eagles, which have long signified inspiration, longevity and victory – traits sure to eclipse COVID-19. At least 11 were counted.