The timeless power of storytelling lies in the sacred exchange between storyteller and listener—a connection that transcends generations, builds community, and sustains culture. It is through this exchange that we find our deepest truths, our shared histories, and the resilience to move forward. The Department of American Indian Studies at the University of Washington recently celebrated this tradition with the annual Sacred Breath event, a gathering that honored not only the art of storytelling but its healing power. This year's event featured renowned Indigenous storytellers Richard Van Camp (Dogrib, Tłı̨chǫ Nation) and Roger Fernandes (Lower Elwha S'Klallam), both of whom carried the weight and wisdom of their ancestors in every word.
The theme of Indigenous Comics and Storytelling was woven throughout the event, and Richard Van Camp shared his own journey of survival and transformation through stories. He spoke with raw emotion about how stories—both the ones he had heard as a child and those he created—saved his life. Through his graphic novel Roth, Van Camp explored the power of creativity, art, and storytelling to heal deep wounds. His words echoed in the hearts of all who listened, reminding us that storytelling is more than entertainment—it's a tool of survival, a way to rebuild and redefine ourselves. Roger Fernandes brought his deep connection to oral traditions, reminding the audience of the roots of storytelling in Indigenous cultures. His stories, filled with humor, warmth, and insight, not only made us laugh but also stirred a deep sense of reflection. With his words, Fernandes created a space for healing—inviting the audience to find their own stories and to see themselves as storytellers. His simple yet profound statement, “You are a storyteller because you are a human being,” resonated deeply, highlighting the universal nature of storytelling as a reflection of our shared humanity. In this moment, the power of storytelling became clear—not only as a tradition to be passed down but as a way for us to connect across time, place, and experience.
What made this event so emotionally powerful was the way it invited everyone to remember that we are all storytellers, each of us carrying our own truths, dreams, and struggles. Van Camp and Fernandes didn’t just share stories—they opened the door for others to step in and find their own voice, to remember that our stories matter. Their storytelling was not just an exchange of words; it was an invitation to heal, to understand, and to be part of something much larger than ourselves.
The Sacred Breath event was a reminder that storytelling is not just about preserving the past, but about shaping the future. It is about honoring the wisdom of our ancestors while giving voice to the experiences of today. Through the power of their words, Van Camp and Fernandes showed us that storytelling is an act of love, an act of healing, and an act of teaching. Their stories carried with them the strength of their communities and the promise of a space, where Indigenous voices continue to be heard and celebrated. To experience this remarkable event, watch the full recording here: UW American Indian Studies YouTube channel.
By: Theresa M. Sabala (COM major, AIS minor, AIS Student Liaison 2024-25)