“She was taken away from her family. All the other ones who were captured during that time are all gone now.” – Late Chief Tsi’li’xw
A DARK DAY
Aug. 8, 1970, Penn Cove, Whidbey Island, WA.
The hunt was relentless; Ted Griffin & Don Goldsberry, partners in a capture operation known as Namu, Inc., used boats, planes, & explosives, resulting in tragedy as 5 orcas lost their lives. Lolita (first called Tokitae) was 1 of 7 sold to marine parks worldwide.
Amidst this heart-wrenching history lies a tale of strength & unwavering spirit. Tokitae survived against all odds. Her journey has become a symbol of resilience.
ONE HEART, ONE MIND
Today we honour Tokitae, those taken, those whose lives were lost and the ancestors who walk beside us and continue to guide us.
“That person that’s out there in front, you might think their ideas are a little off-centre, a little off beam, a little off balance, but you might find as time goes by, they have a story to tell you.” – Ralph Munro
Video: Remembering the orcas captured in Washington state, 1970-76 by Jo Phillips
