On June 20-21, 2009, more than two dozen organizations including commercial, recreational and tribal fishermen, conservation organizations, chefs, restaurants, scientists, and many others worked together to create Salmon Aid 2009 in Oakland, California.  The organizers said the event’s goal was to “raise awareness of the plight of west coast salmon populations, the rivers and streams they spawn in, and the many coastal and inland communities that rely on salmon for their livelihoods and survival.” Salmon advocates came from California, Oregon, Alaska, Idaho, Nevada and other faraway places to support the event. Organizers estimate that more than 9,000 people attended. The festival had education booths, activities, food, environmental film screenings and music to showcase the human connection to the fish as well as educate the public.