I am a Coast Salish Native of the Lummi and S’Klallam Nations in the Pacific Northwest of Washington State. Throughout my life I have traveled the United States, Central and South America to work with indigenous peoples. These songs I offer to you represent the heart and strength of my Coast Salish roots and express the influences, inspirations and experiences of my travels to other lands. I am one who appreciates the gifts of every culture and individual. I believe if we follow our hearts and bring forth these gifts to share with others, beauty and understanding will arise from their expression, and greater hope will alight upon this earth. I hope these songs inspire our younger generations, to answer the call to lift and carry on the teachings of our ancestors; a way of life firmly grounded in dignity, integrity, love and caring for a future that depends on these qualities. It is also my hope that people of all cultures and backgrounds can relate to one another from a place of curiosity, mutual respect and a willingness to listen to and learn from one another.

Chenoa Egawa