Indigenous Affairs Native nations lead salmon restoration efforts in Columbia Basin 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. by Nika Bartoo-Smith Underscore + ICT / February 10, 2025
Indigenous Affairs Cowlitz Tribe youth help lead this year’s First Salmon Ceremony “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. by Nika Bartoo-Smith Underscore + ICT / June 24, 2024
Indigenous Affairs Yakama Nation’s new public safety campus gives justice room to grow The tribal court system, which had occupied a cluster of trailers since the ’50s, plans to add services like a mental health or a veterans court. by Nika Bartoo-Smith Underscore News and ICT / January 9, 2024
Equity Snoqualmie Tribe starts land protection sales tax at Salish Lodge The 2% tax will preserve ancestral sites such as Snoqualmie Falls, and could be a model for other Indigenous nations. by Nika Bartoo-Smith Underscore/ICT / July 17, 2023
News The Washington mental health lifeline made for and by Native people The Native and Strong Lifeline provides connection and culturally specific care to callers in crisis. by Nika Bartoo-Smith Indian Country Today and Underscore News / June 19, 2023
Opinion Ticket prices at Seattle sports venues are unaffordable for too many Climate Pledge Arena — and other professional sports destinations — should do more to make the experience affordable to everybody. by Samantha Allen / November 30, 2021
Opinion Salmon, orca, and the soul of Seattle These creatures are at the core of our region's identity. Without them, 'we'd be just like everywhere else.' by Samantha Allen / November 12, 2021
Opinion Whatever move Sue Bird makes next, her legacy is secure After the Seattle Storm’s narrow loss in the WNBA playoffs, the basketball legend considers retirement. And that’s OK. by Samantha Allen / October 1, 2021
Opinion Hoping for a return of Seattle’s 24-hour diner culture There’s something special about a place where night owls and late-night workers can huddle at unusual hours. by Samantha Allen / September 17, 2021
Opinion Many of us were vigilant but COVID could be endemic. We must adapt We should continue masking, distancing and getting our vaccines. But we need to relearn day-to-day life — again. by Samantha Allen / August 30, 2021