First-person story telling has a unique power to deepen our understanding of the histories, cultures and environment that surrounds us. Confluence Story Gatherings are welcoming forums that feature the stories of native elders, told in their own voices, as a way to explore the interconnectedness of people and places of the Columbia River system. Confluence Story Gatherings are story-driven discussions using these interview excerpts to frame a thoughtful discussion by a panel of native thinkers, writers and leaders before a live audience.