September 27th, actual World Rivers Day, was a very sunny and windy day at Vanier Park, perfect for honoring wild salmon that used to be so abundant in the area. Fraser Riverkeeper joined several other organizations at the Salmon Celebration, which was hosted by False Creek Watershed Society. Many people came dressed like salmon, or wore masks and other costumes. There were activities for children, including dance, story-telling, wooden boat painting, and other crafts.
First Nations speakers provided great oral tales of the history of salmon and the cultures of peoples when salmon was in high abundance; the First Nations also, in native dress, danced and provided music. Celia Brauer, the Artistic Director of the Salmon celebration, who was the main speaker, seemed to focus on more positive aspects of salmon tradition, to bring hope — rather than talking too much about the recent collapse of sockeye and other declining fish populations.
