Washington Tribes

06/04/2026

Washington Words: Stories Behind the Names

Have you ever wondered about the name Humptulips?

Located in Grays Harbor County, Humptulips comes from a Salish word meaning "hard to pole", likely describing travel conditions along the Humptulips River.

For generations, Native people traveled the rivers and waterways of the Pacific Northwest, and many place names reflect the landscapes, resources, and experiences that shaped daily life.

Today, Humptulips remains one of Washington's most distinctive place names and a reminder of the deep Indigenous roots found throughout our state.

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05/29/2026

Happy Friday from Washington Tribes!

Did you know Tribal Governments and enterprises help support thousands of jobs across Washington, not just for Tribal members, but for surrounding communities as well? From healthcare and construction to hospitality, natural resources, education, and public safety, Tribal economies play an important role in creating opportunities and strengthening local communities throughout the state.

05/27/2026

Words have deep meaning.

Many words and place names we hear every day in the Pacific Northwest have Indigenous origins.

For example, Mukilteo = good camping place. The Point Elliott Treaty of 1855 was signed in Mukilteo. At the treaty signing, Tribal Leaders insisted they retain the right to fish at their "usual and accustomed grounds and stations", which later became the foundation for landmark court decisions protecting tribal treaty rights generations later.

05/25/2026

On Memorial Day, we remember and honor those who made the ultimate sacrifice in service.

Native Americans have long answered the call to serve, and today, we reflect with gratitude and respect.

05/22/2026

Pop Quiz! Do you know Washington tribes? Try answering this question:

Much of this tribe's reservation, the largest in Washington, is made up of remote, mountainous and forested terrain. To protect its land and community, the tribe devotes significant resources to forest management and fire prevention.

A. Confederated Tribes of the Colville Reservation
B. Suquamish Tribe
C. Quinault Indian Nationn

Find the answers to this question and others in the May issue of our Washington Tribes newsletter, out now! https://mailchi.mp/washingtonindiangaming/news-from-washington-tribes-may2026

05/22/2026

Happy Friday from Washington Tribes!

Long before modern highways connected Washington, Tribal canoe routes served as the region's original waterways of trade, communication, diplomacy, and family connection. Today, Canoe Journey traditions continue to bring Tribal Nations together while strengthening culture, language, and community.

Looking ahead, the Medicine Creek Potlatch Journey will take place July 31-August 5th, continuing the important traditions of gathering, cultural sharing, and strengthening connections between Tribal Nations.

Wishing everyone a safe and meaningful weekend.

Find out more about the Medicine Creek Potlatch Journey: https://www.nisqually-nsn.gov/heritage/Medicine_Creek_Potlatch_Journey

05/21/2026

Traditional foods are more than meals; they are stories, teachings, medicine, and connection to the land and water. From salmon and shellfish to camas, berries, venison, and cedar tea, many foods of Washington Tribes have sustained communities since time immemorial.

These foods carry culture, ceremony, and knowledge passed down through generations and continue to nourish Tribal communities today.

05/18/2026

The Lummi Nation is setting a powerful example for communities across Washington and beyond.

This summer, the Nation will open the first tribally owned and operated substance withdrawal management center on tribal land in Washington state, expanding access to lifesaving care at a time when the opioid and fentanyl crisis continues to impact families in every corner of our region.

Projects like this strengthen entire communities. They create safer futures, support recovery close to home, reduce barriers to treatment, and show what can happen when communities invest in healing with compassion, dignity, and long-term vision.

Washington Tribes continue to lead not only their own people, but for the well-being of the broader region as a whole.

Read more:

16-bed facility is the first tribally owned, operated withdrawal site on tribal land in Washington

05/15/2026

Happy Friday from Washington Tribes!

Did you know many Washington tribal nations operate their own environmental and natural resource programs; protecting salmon, shellfish, forests, waterways, and wildlife for future generations?

Since time immemorial, tribes have cared for these lands and waters with a long-term view rooted in responsibility, balance, and respect for nature.

Wishing everyone a safe and peaceful weekend! Learn more at https://www.washingtontribes.org/resources/