By Wade Sheldon, Tulalip News
The Northwest Native American Basketweavers Association (NNABA) selected Tulalip as the host for its 27th annual gathering, held at the Gathering Hall. The two-day event on October 4 and 5 saw over 600 registered guests and 38 teachers, marking the largest gathering in the organization’s history. The NNABA continues to provide a space for Indigenous peoples of the Northwest to share and learn cultural and artistic skills, including creating native regalia and various styles of basketry.
The gathering offered guests various weaving classes to choose from, where they learned techniques using materials like cedar, sweetgrass, wool, and yarn. Participants had seven hours each day to work on their projects, with classes filling up on a first-come, first-served basis. Each teacher provided the necessary materials for their craft, with fees for both lessons and supplies varying depending on the craft and instructor.
Tulalip tribal member Hiedi Zackuse expressed her enthusiasm, saying, “This is super cool.” Another attendee, Jack McCloud from Nisqually, reflected on the significance of the gathering: “I didn’t grow up with much tradition. My grandparents spoke our language fluently but weren’t allowed to teach us about our culture. Being part of this year’s gathering makes me proud. It feels like our culture has come back stronger than ever. Seeing the imagination of all the artists here is incredible.”
During the event, each completed item was announced by teachers, who would stand up to share what had been created and by whom. Applause filled the room as participants proudly raised their finished projects for all to see, creating a warm and supportive atmosphere.
Tulalip tribal member and teacher Toni Jo Gobin flew in from Hawaii to share her unique basketry techniques. Reflecting on her experience, Gobin said, “It was awesome teaching at the Gathering Hall. It was a lot of fun meeting everyone. This was my first time teaching and attending a NNABA event, and while it was super busy, it was nice.” She also expressed her gratitude to the Tulalip staff, adding, “I want to give a huge thanks to the staff at Tulalip. They ensured all the elders and guests had everything they needed and kept things running smoothly.”
NNABA representative Ramona Townrae, a Yakama Nation member and resident of Black Diamond, praised the event’s success. “Every year, the NNABA selects a host by advertising proposals, allowing us to connect with people from all over the Northwest, including Canada, Washington, Oregon, Idaho, and parts of Montana,” she explained. “This year’s gathering was one of the largest we’ve ever held. When we first started back in 1996, we barely had 100 attendees. Now, we’ve brought in over 600 people. Seeing individuals who saved their nickels and dimes to attend and participate warms my heart.”
Reflecting on the venue, Ramona shared, “This is a fantastic place—not only is it beautiful, but it truly maintains our culture and traditions. The staff and tribal members have been working hard for months, ensuring everyone felt welcome. I always ask, ‘What would you do if someone came to your home?’ That’s the approach Tulalip took. It’s not just a conference; it’s a gathering, and that distinction is so important.”
Ramona also highlighted the event’s growing significance within the community. “Our mission is to promote, perpetuate, and preserve Native American basketry, and a key part of that is involving the youth. We run a program for kids; whether we have hundreds or just a handful, those kids are the ‘promote’ part of our mission. They’re the ones who will carry our traditions forward. I always tell them, ‘You are our future. You will be the cultural bearers.’ It’s heartwarming to see their little hands weaving—knowing they’re the ones who will keep this alive.”
The 27th annual NNABA gathering at Tulalip celebrated basket weaving and the strength of Indigenous culture and community. Bringing together elders and youth, the event ensures that these traditions will continue to thrive and be passed down for generations.
If you want to know more about the NNABA or their next gathering, you can find out on the website at http://www.nnaba.net