Whale hunt a lesson for media, tribe

By Faith Price
Unity 99 Convention Online Staff

For the first time in over 70 years, the Makah were again the hunters. But, little did they know, they would also become the hunted.

Tribal leaders told an audience Friday that as teams resumed their hunt for the grey whale, the small reservation town of Neah Bay found itself under intense scrutiny as journalists from across the country converged to cover the hunt and the resulting protests.

"One day we even beat Clinton and Monica out. So we had a big story," laughed Makah tribal chairman Ben Johnson, Jr.

For approximately a year, while plans and preparations for the hunt were being made, between 10-35 animal-rights activists were on hand continually to protest the revival of this tradition. In turn, around 80 journalists entered the community to cover this heated issue.

Responding to questions about press coverage from moderator Mark Trahant (Shoshone/ Bannock), along with Chairman Johnson, were Wayne Johnson, captain of the whale hunting team, Lionel Ahdunko, chief of police for the Makah tribe and Keith Johnson, the president of the Makah Whaling Commission

One step the tribe took to encourage objective coverage of their community was to hold a traditional potlatch for the members of the media. This cultural event, featuring dancing and a feast, allowed journalists and tribal members to become acquainted.

"They (the journalists) got a sense of who we are as a people. They were able to see that the Makahs have a rich, rich way of life," Keith Johnson said.

Although parts of the news coverage left something to be desired, said Lionel Ahdunko, "We did appreciate the press as far as the positive aspects they showed like culture, traditions, and treaty rights."

The panel members acknowledged that they learned a great deal about dealing with the media during this period and that the media came away with a greater understanding of them.

Next time, however, there are some things they would like to do differently.

"I know we're going to go through it (the whale hunt) again, but nobody's going to know about it," joked Chairman Johnson.