Beauty Returns to the Water: Canoe Journey 2026
After more than a year of hard work, I’yes (meaning "Beauty") — a 40-foot cedar strip traveling canoe — returned to the water with the Xwlolemes Canoe Family during this year's Paddle to Nisqually.
Over the course of two weeks, more than 30 young people paddled, learned songs and dances, made regalia and grew together as a canoe family on the journey. For many, it was their first time paddling, singing or dancing — including for some of our youngest crew members. With a 15-year-old skipper at the helm, watching a full youth canoe take to the water was a powerful reminder of what becomes possible when young people are given the opportunity to lead, learn and belong.
Led by Free and Raven Borsey, Beauty's journey reflected a deep commitment to youth, culture and community. Beauty once carried the Lummi Youth Canoe Family, of which Free and Raven pulled with, before she was put to sleep and stored away. Out on the water again for the first time in years, Beauty was welcomed by old canoe families, new friends, relatives and communities who gathered to share songs, teachings, meals and support.
Setting Sun Circle has been documenting Beauty’s restoration and return to the water. The story is about more than a canoe — it's about connection and continuing our commitment to future generations while honoring those who came before us. It's about showing up for one another, creating space for young people and carrying our cultural teachings forward.
To everyone who donated, volunteered, cooked, paddled, shared a teaching, supported our fundraising, or simply believed in this journey: our hands go up to you. Hy'shqe – thank you for helping bring Beauty home.
The Paddle to Nisqually may be over for this year, but for the Xwlolemes Canoe Family and Setting Sun Circle, the work is only the beginning.
“The Downwinder” at Comic Con
"The Downwinder" Co-Creators and Creative Directors Tokala Tatum and Roy Nichol joined other Indigenous storytellers at Indigi-Con at San Diego Comic-Con. The pair had the opportunity to speak with audiences about Setting Sun Circle’s upcoming graphic novel and the importance of bringing Indigenous knowledge, leadership and lived experiences into popular culture.
Their work was recognized by California State Legislature Assemblymember David Alvarez, who honored Tokala (Yakama, Rosebud Sioux), Roy (Nooksack, Shx:way Village) and panelists for their unwavering dedication to advancing Indigenous knowledge, leadership and cultural empowerment within higher education and popular culture.
Guardians of Life
As part of the Nature of Writing Summer Series, Setting Sun Circle's Free Borsey (Lummi) and North Cascades Institute youth ambassador Abi Schenken joined acclaimed photographer Kiliii Yüyan to discuss themes from his new book "Guardians of Life." The conversation reflected on the importance of affirming the sovereign rights of Indigenous peoples to care for their ancestral lands and waters as we work together to protect and sustain life on planet Earth for all.
We were so excited to join North Cascades Institute and Village Books for this incredible event, along with a second Nature of Writing Book event featuring Jason Dove Mark and his new book, “The Earth Said Remember Me.” Cross cultural events like this are what our future home Setting Sun Circle aims to bring to downtown Bellingham.
Where We’ll Be
"The River Remembers" at Free The Snake Flotilla
Sept. 11 | Lewiston, ID
Join Nimíipuu Protecting the Environment in rallying for a free-flowing lower Snake River. All are welcome to this free two-day community gathering. Join to listen, learn and take meaningful action towards salmon recovery in the Columbia Basin and healing the Snake River.
Our latest film "The River Remembers" will be showing on Sept. 11. Dinner is served at 5:30 pm followed by an outdoor screening at 7 pm. Check out the schedule for more information and to RSVP.
Seeds of Change
Young & Indigenous Podcast
Episode 3: Indigenous Anthropology
Setting Sun Circle’s latest Young & Indigenous podcast features Senior Researcher Raven Borsey (Lummi). He shares his experience navigating the education system – carrying wisdom of his ancestors from the classroom to his work. He invites those who want to open their hearts and "wake up" to visit our future home when it opens in 2027. Listen on our website, Spotify or Apple Podcasts.
What is Darrell Reading?
Executive Director Darrell Hillaire is known as a prolific reader. We’re often asked, “What is Darrell reading right now?”
Today, Darrell is reading "The Impending, Inescapable Deluge of A.I." by Adam Satariano, Paul Mozur, Jacqueline Gu and Cade Metz in the New York Times.