fbpx  

Inspiration

, , , , ,

2024 GoFishPI Crabbing Weekend in Newport, OR

October 18, 2024

Living Islands began preparations for the much-anticipated crabbing weekend in Newport, Oregon. Guests were warmly welcomed and helped settle into their accommodations after what, for many, had been long journeys. We had begun organizing logistics for the weekend’s activities, ensuring every participant was ready to be a part of this amazing opportunity.

Part of the preparations included setting up some of the crab pots for the following day’s hands-on experience. Volunteers and staff worked tirelessly to gather last-minute materials and ensure everything was in place to make this event both enjoyable and educational.

October 19, 2024


The main event kicked off with a morning meeting. This was our opportunity to introduce attendees to one another, fostering connections among participants from diverse backgrounds who shared a love for the ocean and sustainable practices. We also provided an overview of the day’s activities and safety protocols.

The group then headed to the Newport Municipal Crabbing Pier and the beautiful Yaquina Bay for an immersive crabbing experience. With traps in hand and seasoned community members sharing invaluable insights, everyone got a chance to learn the ins and outs of crabbing. It was not just a learning experience but also a cultural exchange, where stories, techniques, and local knowledge flowed freely among participants.

After a much needed lunch break, the community reconvened for an enriching presentation from an impressive lineup of speakers. Representatives from the Oregon Department of Fish & Wildlife, Oregon Sea Grant, Portland Harbor Community Coalition, the City of Portland, and Aunty Shirley De La Cruz shared their expertise on topics ranging from regulations and conservation efforts to sustainable opportunities in marine environments. This session offered a wealth of information that left attendees better informed and inspired to act as advocates & educators of the coastal ecosystem.

To round out the day, we enjoyed a communal meal—a chance to relax, mingle, and reflect on the day’s experiences. The shared meal fostered a sense of unity, emphasizing the importance of community in preserving our indigenous practices despite not being on our indigenous lands.

October 20, 2024


The weekend concluded with a final gathering, where we celebrated the success of the event and raffled off prizes. The gear raffle added a fun and competitive element, with items ranging from practical hand warmers and instant food packs to high-value prizes like machetes and commercial-grade crab pots. The excitement in the room was contagious, and everyone left with smiles and stories to share.

Before parting ways, attendees participated in a feedback session, sharing their experiences and offering suggestions to make future events even better. It was a heartfelt end to a weekend filled with learning, laughter, and new friendships.

Looking Ahead


The 2024 Crabbing Weekend was a resounding success, blending education, hands-on activity, and community engagement into a memorable experience. Living Islands is deeply grateful to all the participants, speakers, and volunteers who made this event possible. We can’t wait to see how we can build on this foundation for future events and continue fostering connections between people and the environment. 

Read More
, , , , , ,

GoFish 2024 Kick-Off at Clackamette Park: Embracing Culture and Heritage

Amidst the natural splendor of Clackamette Park, the Living Islands team embarked on a dual-purpose mission: capturing compelling footage for our Superfund PSAs and kick-starting the GoFish Ambassadors program.

This day was a significant milestone, as it not only contributed to our ongoing efforts to raise environmental awareness but also marked the beginning of a journey towards forming a state-wide Pacific Islander advisory council in February 2024!

By weaving in elements of our shared fashion and the rich history of fishing deeply rooted in Pacific Islander culture, we aimed to connect with our community on a profound level. The GoFish Ambassadors program is a testament to our commitment to engage with our community through culturally aware channels. It’s designed to empower members, enabling them to represent and advocate for our collective interests and heritage. This initiative represents more than just a meeting; it’s the foundation of a movement that will bring together voices from across the state, ensuring that the unique perspectives and needs of Pacific Islanders are heard and addressed.

As we wrapped up the day’s filming, we felt a surge of pride and anticipation for this program’s impact in strengthening our community ties and preserving our cultural legacy.

Read More
, , , , , ,

Marshallese Cultural Health Forum 2023: Bridging Communities Through Cross-Cultural Education

The Marshallese Cultural Health Forum was a transformative experience, where attendees gathered to foster a deeper understanding of health needs within the Marshallese community and beyond. This unique event featured insightful presentations and distinguished speakers, providing invaluable insights into the cultural nuances that influenced healthcare practices.

The forum served as a vital platform for individuals, healthcare professionals, and community leaders to come together and engage in meaningful dialogue. Through cross-cultural education, we aimed to bridge gaps in healthcare delivery, ensuring that every individual, regardless of their cultural background, received the support they deserved.

Highlights of the event included:

Engaging Presentations: Expert speakers delved into various aspects of Marshallese culture, shedding light on traditional health practices, beliefs, and the challenges faced by the community in accessing quality healthcare.

Interactive Exhibits: Attendees immersed themselves in the rich tapestry of Marshallese culture through interactive exhibits showcasing art, music, and cuisine, providing a sensory experience that deepened their understanding of this vibrant community.

Networking Opportunities: Participants connected with like-minded individuals, healthcare professionals, and community leaders who shared a passion for improving health outcomes and promoting cultural inclusivity.

Those who attended the Marshallese Cultural Health Forum gained valuable insights that empowered them to make a positive impact on the health and well-being of Marshallese individuals, and by extension, contributed to a more inclusive and equitable healthcare system for all.

The event was a significant step towards creating a healthier, more culturally sensitive future for our communities. It was an opportunity for attendees to be part of a movement dedicated to positive change.