Covenant of the Salmon People

It’s no secret that one of Spokane’s historically largest populations barely lives here anymore. Salmon, at one point numbering in the millions, were pushed out in droves with no way to return after the construction of dams along rivers connecting to the Spokane. This story is unfortunately the same for many other parts of the Pacific Northwest, impacting all who live there, but particularly those of native peoples. The documentary Covenant of the Salmon People outlines the ancient covenant that exists between the Nez Perce Tribe and Chinook salmon and the challenges to save wild salmon from extinction due to damming and climate change impacts. Gonzaga’s Institute for Climate, Water, and the Environment is hosting a free screening of the film for viewers to learn more about the fight to save a vital Northwest species.

Covenant of the Salmon People • Tue, Feb. 20 at 6 pm • All ages • Free • Gonzaga University Hemmingson Center • 702 E. Desmet Ave • gonzaga.edu/climate-institute