Tribe presenting gift to TriMet on Friday, April 17

The Confederated Tribes of Grand Ronde will present a gift of “We Have Always Lived Here” to TriMet at 10 a.m. Friday, April 17, at the juncture of the Eastside Gateway Trail and Tilikum Crossing.

Created by Greg Robinson (Chinook), the artwork is comprised of three elements: two basalt carvings of a Tayi, or headman, with his people and a large bronze medallion.

Basalt carvings are an ancient tradition among the Chinookan peoples of the Columbia River and these welcome figures stand as a permanent testimony to the people who once thrived in the Portland area and those who are still practicing their culture.

The medallion shows Morning Star and her children in the center, a reference to the heavens, and Coyote and the first humans on the outer ring, referencing the Earth.

Portland Mayor Charlie Hales and TriMet General Manager Neil McFarlane, as well as Tribal representatives, are scheduled to attend.