The heartbeat, and the lifeline, of communities

When most of us hear the word “salmon,” we think of a color or an entrée. But for many people worldwide, wild salmon are much more than a source of protein for humans or the cornerstone of ecosystems.

Salmon hold deep cultural, spiritual and economic significance for Indigenous and non-Indigenous communities alike. Salmon are large fish that can provide sustenance to many families, as well as support social and economic relationships.¹

For Indigenous peoples, salmon are not only a traditional food source but are also integral to cultural practices and teachings that honor the connection between people and nature.

In non-Indigenous communities, salmon are vital for local economies, particularly through recreational and commercial fisheries, which sustain livelihoods and foster community identity.²

Protecting wild salmon is essential to supporting cultural traditions and ensuring sustainable fisheries for future generations.