The Coquille Indian Tribe is inviting spectators to watch the Mill-Luck Salmon Celebration canoe race.

But the racing is meant for tribal members only.

A competition among tribal members from Coquille and other local tribes, the races are intended to renew connections between coastal Indians and the water, said Shirod Younker, an organizer for the canoe event. Races will include dugout  and contemporary built canoes, as well as categories of female and male juniors; adult women’s both contemporary and dugout; men’s both contemporary and dugout; and co-ed.

“The canoe race is a good way to help entice some of the Coos, Lower Umpqua, Siuslaw, Grand Ronde and hopefully, Siletz people, as well as any one from the southern tribes, to come up and race against us,” Younker said. “But more importantly for us as Indian people to reaffirm our distant kinship and cultural ties that we have. 

“Canoe culture is a great way to work together for a common cause, to become healthier, learn old songs and dances pertaining to canoes that haven't been used in awhile, and to help build better relationships politically and socially with our neighbors.”

Canoes are an integral part of tribal tradition, because they served as transportation for coastal tribes.

“The same way the horse was to the plains, the canoe was to our people,” Younker said.

He added that while the races foster a sense of competition, that’s not really the focus.

“It’s not so much about winning, as it is to get tribal members to make a connection with the water ... and sharing camaraderie with neighboring tribes,” Younker said. “We’re trying to get more in touch with our roots and bring those traditions back.”

And it’s just fun.

“If it’s fun, we’re going to do it.”

Races will begin at 10 a.m. Saturday and Sunday. Other activities run from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.

For more information about event call (800) 953-4800 or visit http://www.themillcasino.com.