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
Environment Environmental stalwart Stewart Udall celebrated in new documentary The former Secretary of the Interior helped establish the Pacific Crest Trail, four national parks – including one in Washington – and many groundbreaking environmental laws. by Francesca Lyman / April 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
Culture The lore behind Washington’s spookiest historic haunts From Port Townsend to Pioneer Square, visit supernatural hotels frequented by ghost hunters from across the country this Halloween. by Francesca Lyman / October 20, 2023
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 More women are casting their net into the salmon fishing industry They used to be considered bad luck onboard, but an increasing number of female crew members are stepping onto boats headed to Alaska. by Francesca Lyman / June 30, 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
News Charity or business? Some consumers still confused by Value Village The Bellevue-based for-profit thrift store chain won a lawsuit over its marketing approach, but nonprofit competitors aren't happy. by Francesca Lyman / May 10, 2023
Culture Black Arts Legacies: Lamentation and revelation in Porter Ray's hip hop The Seattle rapper keeps memories of the Central District alive with vivid lyrics and a jazz sensibility. by Kemi Adeyemi / August 11, 2022