Latest in Indigenous Affairs

Today, there are just 12 reefnetting licenses in the state, and Tah-Mahs Ellie Kinley carries on generations of tradition as the only tribal fisher.

Punitive legislation and environmental damage caused by the cannery industry all but severed the Lummi Nation from their traditional fishing practices.

Indigenous nations in Washington, including the Yakama, Spokane and Colville, could see health care, education and other social services falter.

Reefnet fishing was invented by the Lummi Nation and other Northern Straits Salish tribes, providing physical and spiritual sustenance for centuries.

The number of returning adult salmon and steelhead has doubled since the 1990s, but is still only halfway to the NWPCC’s goal of 5 million.

Though disparities have decreased for other races compared to white counterparts, rates have continued to rise for Indigenous motorists since 2020.

A lost 1855 treaty map caused the state and settlers to encroach on reservation land. The nation wants it back — but legal hurdles slow the process.

The court order comes eight years after the tribe revoked the citizenship of about 300 people, 20 of whom live in tribal low-income housing.

Three years after its founding, the Office of Independent Investigations has not moved forward on any of the police killings it has flagged for review.

The poles — which are not part of Coast Salish tradition — sparked a mini-culture war in Seattle around Indigenous representation and historic preservation.

The decline started with the introduction of farmed salmon, but imports, decreased global demand and higher supply chain costs have also contributed.

Tribal leaders say Native voices in politics is important in a state that exists within the historical territories of 29 federally recognized nations.

As the state considers removing the species’ endangered status, some argue that the Colville Tribe’s recent population estimate is implausibly high.

A consultation process opens the door for tribes to have a say in federal projects — but only if they’re willing to publicly disclose sacred knowledge.

“It’s what we do to thank the salmon for what they give,” said Lydia Hodges, 15, part of the new generation carrying on the sacred ritual.