Our Hearts Beat as One (Sa'le Q'ewet Netse-lh)

Follow the story of Sk'aliCh'elh-tenaut, the orca also known as Tokitae or Lolita. Stolen from her family in 1970, this Puget Sound orca was sold to the Miami Aquarium where she performed for over 50 years. The Lummi people, a Native tribe in Northwestern Washington State, consider the local orcas to be part of their human family. Members of Lummi Nation worked to bring their relation back home, and succeeded in bringing tribes, politicians, corporations, philanthropists, and activists together for common cause. Sk'aliCh'elht-tenaut was on the verge of homecoming when she suddenly died in captivity.



This book tells her story in a way that honors the legacy of Sk'aliCh'elh-tenaut, encourages readers of all ages to stand up to protect all our relations, and demonstrates the power of inclusivity and collaboration.



This book's creative team includes members from the Lummi Nation. It was designed to be part of a school curriculum as well as a home bookshelf that aims to include and honor Native stories, values, and perspectives. Written by Tah-Mahs Ellie Kinley and Julie Trimingham, art by Sienum Jason LaClair, translated by Na-tak-ul-tan Tino Kurtz.