Tribe will spread remains in a sacred spot
||| FROM CASCADIA DAILY NEWS |||
The Lummi Nation will celebrate the life of Tokitae, the Southern Resident orca that died in August, in a private ceremony in Bellingham Bay after her ashes are returned to the tribe this week.
The orca, who died unexpectedly Aug. 18 after five decades in captivity at the Miami Seaquarium, underwent an autopsy at the University of Georgia, where her ashes were “culturally and traditionally” prepared by members of the Lummi Nation, according to a statement from tribal officials.
Earlier this week, members of the tribe traveled to Georgia to prepare and collect her ashes, which were due to arrive today at the Bellingham Airport.
The tribe initially planned to host a public ceremony Friday, Sept. 22, but that event has been canceled. The tribe will announce plans for a public ceremony at a later date.
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