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
Equity How racism directly threatens our public health Research shows that the chronic stress of racism takes a toll on the body and leads to worse health outcomes. by Jen Dev / March 26, 2021
Equity How the demographics of clinical trials can hurt people of color Medical study participants tend to be white, educated, and wealthier than the general population. That has negative implications for research. by Jen Dev / March 19, 2021
Equity Diversity at U.S. medical schools has barely improved in 40 years Underrepresented groups still face numerous obstacles to access the medical field, including admissions practices and legislation. by Jen Dev / March 12, 2021
Equity Why diversity is important among WA doctors and health care providers For marginalized communities, a trusting relationship with their health care provider increases the likelihood of better outcomes. by Jen Dev / March 5, 2021
Equity The model minority myth hurts Asian Americans seeking health care Grouping Asian Americans together hide many disparities in health data. by Jen Dev / February 26, 2021