We offer programs for communities to learn and recreate in the outdoors.

Mission

At All Are We, our mission is to create inclusive outdoor recreation opportunities for Indigenous communities, with a special focus on fostering representation in the surfing community. Through our surfing and ocean safety programs, we hope to reconnect Indigenous youth with their ancestral lands and oceans. Our programs focus on building confidence, skill development, and environmental stewardship while fostering a deep connection to cultural traditions. By creating safe and supportive spaces, we empower participants to strengthen their identity and leadership abilities within the broader context of ocean and environmental conservation. In doing so, we support the preservation of Indigenous voices, traditions, and ancestral connections to land and ocean so they may be passed down to future generations.

At a glance

There is an obvious lack of diversity in the surfing communities who frequent the popular surfing breaks throughout the Northwest, especially Indigenous people who are originally from these areas. When we offered one of our first surfing clinics for Indigenous Communities located near the coasts in the NW in 2017, nearly 90% of our participants had never surfed before, and some had never stepped foot in the ocean near their ancestral lands before. We want to see more Indigenous representation in our surfing communities, which is why each summer we offer surfing programs for tribal nations to learn and excel at surfing.

Reach

• In 2016 we served 30 tribal members from one nation

• In 2017 we served 60 tribal members from two different nations

• In 2018 we served 90 tribal members from three different nations

• In 2022 we served 125 tribal members from three different nations

Our Programs

Surfing Workshops

We offer engaging and inclusive surfing workshops during the summer season, providing Indigenous youth with the opportunity to learn and experience the joy of riding waves. Our workshops are led by experienced surf and ocean safety instructors who prioritize safety, skill-building, and cultural sensitivity.

Cultural Enrichment

We believe in honoring and preserving the rich cultural heritage of Indigenous communities. Through our programs, participants are encouraged to share or "talk story" about their ancestral traditions, language, and connections to the ocean where we surf. We hope they will feel empowered to connect with their roots and strengthen their sense of identity.

Environmental Awareness

We encourage talk story sessions to learn about ways each culture has played an important role in land management and sustainability practices to recognize the valuable teachings of their ancestors and the responsibility we have to protect our oceans, marine life, and coastal ecosystems to preserve our resources for future generations.

Community Building

We strive to create a supportive and inclusive community that nurtures personal growth and empowerment. Our programs promote teamwork, leadership skills, and self-confidence. We hope to organize regular gatherings and events that facilitate networking, mentorship, and cultural exchange among Indigenous youth as we grow into the future.