•
Community Calendar
Meetings
Suquamish Tribal Council meets Oct 7. & 21. Agenda and links sent via SUN Weekly Update & Texts.
Suquamish Tribal Gaming Committee meets Oct. 8 & 22, 10am at Suquamish Museum. Call Angela Brainerd at (360) 394-8652 for details.
Suquamish Warriors meets Oct. 1, at 5:30pm at the Warriors Vet Center.
Suquamish Seafoods Board meets Oct. 15. Call Shanel Carlson at (360) 394-8512 for details.
PME Board meets Oct. 16. Contact Emily Sato at emilysato@clearwatercasino.com for details.
Suquamish Museum Board meets Oct. 17, 10am-noon at Museum. For info call (360) 394-8499.
Elders Council meets Oct. 15, 2-4pm at Elders Lodge. Call (360) 394-8417 for details.
Tribal Government 2025 Budget Hearing Oct. 21 in Council Chambers at 5pm. Also on Zoom. Look for a link in the SUN Weekly Update. For Suquamish tribal members only.
Recovery Meetings. All are welcome to recovery meetings, held Mon-Fri, 6pm at the Wellness Center.
Suquamish News
Community Events
Culture Nights Weds. Oct. 2 & 16, 5-7pm, House of Awakened Culture Fall Cleanup Oct. 5-Nov. 23. See pg 9 for details.
Welcome Pole Dedication at Sound to Olympics Trailhead, across from Bainbridge Art Museum, Oct. 9, 3pm. (See details on page 14)
CKA Parent Committee meeting Wed. Oct. 16, 5pm at CKA Campus Commons Bldg.
Suquamish Community Health Fair Oct. 18, 9am-1pm at House of Awakened Culture.
Indigenous Peoples Day Oct 14. Tribal offices closed.
Domestic Violence Awareness Week Oct. 21-25. (See page 4)
Suquamish Halloween Party! Oct. 26, 12-3pm. Family & Friends/ Fitness Center.
Halloween Jam Oct. 26, doors open at 4:45pm. Dinner! Prizes! Costume Contest! House of Awakened Culture.
On the Cover
Members of Suquamish Song & Dance traveled to downtown Seattle to share Suquamish culture at the Ancestral Waterways event Sept 11. See page 7 for more. Photo by Jon Anderson.
Suquamish Tribal Council
Leonard Forsman Chairman
Published monthly by the Suquamish Tribe: 18490 Suquamish Way, Suquamish, WA 98392
Email us at: communications@suquamish.nsn.us Send letters to: Suquamish News Editor, PO Box 498, Suquamish, WA 98392-0498
Letters should include the writer’s full name, address, and telephone number and may be edited for clarity and space.
All photo submissions must be made in JPG or PDF form, with resolution of 300 dpi or more.
Josh Bagley Vice-Chair
Irene Carper Secretary
Denita Holmes Treasurer
Lorilee Morsette Member
Azure Boure Member
Luther Mills, Jr. Member
Museum Events
October
Oct 5 Sat, 10am - 3pm. Flintknapping Workshop Oct 9 - 13 Archaeology Station in Museum Lobby FREE Oct 12 Sat. FREE Museum Admission Oct 13 Sun, 1pm - 4pm. Beading Workshop with Ariana Griggs Oct 25 Fri, 2pm - 4pm. Game time at the museum FREE Oct 26 Sat, 1pm - 3pm. Canvas Painting Workshop with Mariah Ordonez
Oct 31 Thurs, 2pm - 4pm. Halloween Trick or Treat
Editorial Staff
Leonard Forsman Editor-in-Chief
Catherine Edwards Executive Editor
Sarah van Gelder Managing Editor
Jon Anderson News Editor
JoAnn Joe Photography/Design
Georgia Browne Layout and Design
Editorial Policy
Publishers of the Suquamish News reserve the right to refuse publication of letters to the editor and guest editorials. Submission of editorials and letters is encouraged. However, they represent the opinion of the author and not necessarily that of the Suquamish Tribe. As such, we reserve the right to refuse to print any letter, for any reason.
Reproduction of Suquamish News, in whole or in part, without written permission from the Suquamish Tribe is strictly prohibited.
Suq uamish Museum
Tribal leaders in Suquamish bid farewell to Gov. Inslee at his last Centennial Accord
Suquamish Chairman Leonard Forsman welcomed Washington Governor Jay Inslee and other state officials along with tribal leaders from throughout the state for the 2024 Centennial Accord on Sept. 19 at Kiana Lodge. The gathering continued on Sept. 20 at the House of Awakened Culture.
The event marks Inslee’s final time participating in the Centennial Accord gathering as governor, and there were many gifts and words of appreciation exchanged during the two-day event, along with much discussion of what has been accomplished — and areas that remain challenging.
In his welcoming remarks at the House of Awakened Culture, Chairman Forsman noted the history of the longhouse as a successor to Old Man House, built by Chief Seattle’s father and Chief Kitsap, and home of Chief Seattle. Old Man House was the site of many ceremonies and meetings where people negotiated ways to keep the peace and to navigate change, Forsman said. These were gatherings not unlike the Centennial Accord.
“We are proud and honored to be able to do this work in our role as an intermediary between tribal governments and state officials, carrying on a tradition of diplomacy that Chief Seattle set out.”
“It’s an honor to be in such an incredible place,” Inslee said during his opening remarks.
35 years of government-to-government talks
The Centennial Accord was signed in 1989 by the state of Washington and the state’s 26 federally recognized tribes in order to improve relationships through government-to-government consultations. Washington was the first state to have a formal agreement of this type.
Additional tribes joined as they were recognized by the federal government, and several out-ofstate tribes with treaty rights in Washington state have also joined.
In the 35 years since its signing, many credit the Accord with bringing about more robust consultations. State agencies regularly reach out to tribes when forming policies and practices, and many have brought Native liaisons on staff to work with tribes on key issues. Consultation has especially focused on protection of marine and forest ecosys-
tems, health, economic development, education, law enforcement, and jurisdictional issues.
At the 2024 session in Suquamish, the siting of new green energy facilities was a key topic of conversation.
Tribes along the Pacific coast raised concerns about the cultural and spiritual impacts of offshore wind, and impacts on treaty fishing rights.
Tribes on the plateau objected to wild lands being converted to solar farms. Convert agricultural land instead, they said. Early consultation with tribes could make a difference.
Inslee listened closely and asked questions of the tribal leaders.
“I think he set the stage for the next administration, the next legislature, and the next agency-led process to hopefully achieve some kind of compromise,” Forsman said. “We’ll have to see if that happens or not.”
Other topics included the need for improved responses to the Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women crisis, mitigating the impacts of a changing climate, culvert removal, opioid treatment, and assuring safe passage of tanker ships through the Salish Sea now that much greater volumes of Canadian oil will transit through the Strait.
A different relationship
“The Centennial Accord has changed the sometimes-adversarial relationship between the state government and sovereign Indian nations,” Inslee noted following the gathering. “We listen to each other and we consult, sovereign to sovereign.”
Among the highlights of that relationship has been economic development in Indian Country.
For Inslee, the issue is personal. “I spent a lot of time on the Tulalip reservation when I was a kid,” he said in an interview following the event. “I got to the know the Tulalip folks, they let me help pull in the line when they were beach seining, and in those days, there was a lot of poverty. There was a lack of hope. There weren’t good economic prospects. And there certainly wasn’t recognition of the tribe by the state government,” he said.
“That has turned around, and now we have a very close working relationship. We have great economic growth to alleviate poverty, although there is still
work we need to do. It’s a magnificent improvement in Washington state in the last 60 years.”
Forsman also touted improvements in tribal-state relationships since the signing of the Centennial Accord, and in the three terms Inslee served in Olympia.
“Building tribal economies through gaming, through cannabis compacts, through revenue compacts, the investment of tax dollars has been good for the state because we reinvest that money into health, into more protections for the environment, natural resources, our treaty resources, and into local communities, providing jobs,” said Forsman.
Forsman also expressed appreciation for the governor’s rigor on policy questions and his involvement in issues of importance to tribes.
“Gov. Inslee is always engaged. You don’t always agree with him, but he always does his homework, he is very transparent, he tries to stay knowledgeable on all the issues. The dialogues we had were authentic, and that’s because of his interest and knowledge of our issues and because he’s always willing to learn more about our issues.”
When asked about a message he had for tribal leaders, Inslee urged them to “Keep leading. We need leadership from tribal leaders. And tell your stories — that’s really important to generate momentum and political support. These are truly great stories!”
By Sarah van Gelder
Suquamish Integrated Victim Services plans week
Suquamish Integrated Victim Services (SIVS) will host Domestic Violence Awareness Week Oct. 21-25 with engagement opportunities for the Suquamish community and employees. Please show your support! Beginning in October, please join us in wearing purple ribbons that can be found at the Admin Building front desk or at our office. We use the purple ribbon to raise awareness about the crime of domestic violence
and the display of purple ribbons throughout the tribal community conveys a powerful message that there’s no place for domestic violence in the homes, neighborhoods, workplaces, or schools of our community.
We will also have awareness signs for your yard, offices, or windows available at our office, limited quantity available. Call us at (360) 9799754 if you’re interested in getting a sign!
The heart of our mission is to help end violence through support services, community education, and outreach. We are here to promote a life of meaning for everyone working towards a life free of violence and exploitation.
Integrated Victim Services is here to be of service to the Suquamish community, to support and empower Indigenous women and people, and to make sure you understand and are treated
fairly and compassionately while you work through the justice system. Know that we are right here, and we will greet you and welcome you when you are in need.
In healing and kindness –Suquamish Integrated Victim Services
PS: Find, like, and follow us on Facebook (Suquamish Integrated Victim Services) so you don’t miss out on the latest with the program!
Take The Pledge
To join us in this important work we invite you to take the pledge:
• I agree to remain violence-free in all my relationships.
• I agree never to commit, condone, or remain silent about domestic violence.
• I pledge to stand with other men in our Suquamish Community to work towards eradicating domestic violence in all its forms by educating myself and the community, raising awareness, and creating social change.
If you agree, add your name to the pledge!
By signing this pledge, I join a community committed to creating a safer, more compassionate society.
Together, we can make a difference!
This is not permission for us to display your first name, surname initial, or identifying information. The pledge sheet is a way for us to count those who have signed to support our efforts. We will not share any information.
11am-2pm to sign the pledge.
Violence Against Women Act Suquamish Tribe Expands Protections with Proposed Code Changes
TheSuquamish Tribal Council is seeking comments from Suquamish tribal members and community members on a proposed changes to the Tribal Code. The proposed changes will restore jurisdiction over non-Natives to Suquamish Tribal Court for certain covered crimes as specified in the federal Violence Against Women Act (VAWA) of 2022. These crimes include domestic violence, assault of tribal justice personnel, child violence, obstruction of justice, sexual violence, sex trafficking, and stalking.
Congress has been slowly restoring to tribes criminal jurisdiction over non-Natives after decades of laws and court cases that eroded tribal sovereignty by limiting the inherent power of tribal courts to punish offenders who commit crimes in Indian Country. In 2013 Congress enacted reauthorization of VAWA that restored criminal jurisdiction to tribal courts for crimes of domestic violence committed by non-Natives.
Here on the Port Madison Reservation, VAWA 2022 and VAWA 2013 help protect Native families by allowing the Suquamish Tribal Court to hold accountable non-natives who commit criminal acts.
A new era of tribal jurisdiction
VAWA 2013 started to address the jurisdictional gaps that were caused by stripping the tribal courts of their authority to prosecute non-Natives for crimes, but many jurisdictional issues remained.
Although VAWA 2013 restored tribal court jurisdiction over intimate partner domestic violence, crimes against that partner’s children still could not be prosecuted in tribal court.
VAWA 2022 added jurisdiction over additional crimes while maintaining the requirements set out in VAWA 2013 for tribes to provide non-Indian defendants with all the rights and protections guaranteed under the Indian Civil Rights Act (ICRA), which codifies the same set of due process rights protected by the United States Constitution.
The Suquamish Tribal Code amendments, based on the VAWA 2022 amendments, and other related changes, are now open for review and comment by the tribal community.
“These proposed code changes are intended to make our community safer especially for Native women and children,” said Alexis Anderson, Suquamish Court Director.
“With these code changes, we will be able to directly address a wider array of crimes that occur on our reservation that impact the safety of tribal members” she said.
“Non-Native offenders can be prosecuted not only for domestic violence offenses, but for sexual violence, child violence, sex trafficking, stalking, obstruction, and assault on tribal justice personnel,” Anderson said.
Cases that previously had to be sent to state court or federal court for prosecution can now be heard in tribal court. VAWA 2022, in part, restores tribal sovereignty and helps protect the most vulnerable and at-risk members of the community.
“The Suquamish Tribe is now able to make the decision about whether a non-native who commits a covered crime on the Port Madison Reservation faces criminal charges, rather than leaving that decision to federal or state prosecutors,” noted Suquamish prosecutor Ben Brueseke.
“Exercising this jurisdiction over non-Native perpetrators promotes the tribe’s sovereignty and enhances the safety of the community” Anderson said. “This will reduce jurisdictional confusion and allow the tribe to prosecute these offenders. Keep-
ing these cases in our system, allows us to meet the needs of our community in a manner that reflects our cultural values and promotes healing.”
Tribal community invited to comment on draft code changes
To access the full set of proposed code changes, go to https://suquamish.nsn.us/tribal-council-seeks-comment or contact the Office of Tribal Attorney for a paper copy.
If approved, the proposed amendments to Suquamish Tribal Code will:
• Implement “Special Tribal Criminal Jurisdiction” (STCJ) over an expanded list of “covered crimes” that includes, in addition to the VAWA 2013 crimes, assault of Tribal justice personnel, child violence, obstruction of justice, sexual violence, sex trafficking, and stalking.
• Modernize outdated terminology and procedures.
• Allow the Suquamish Tribe to exercise their sovereign power to investigate, prosecute, convict, and sentence both Indian and non-Indians who commit covered crimes in Indian country against Indian victims.
• In cases of obstruction of justice and assault of tribal justice personnel, the victim need not be Indian. Tribes may exercise this jurisdiction regardless of whether the non-Indian defendant has ties to the participating Tribe.
Deadline: Please submit written comments by November 20, 2024 to:
Mail: Office of the Tribal Attorney, VAWA 2022 Comments, P.O. Box 498, Suquamish, WA 98392
Email: With the subject line “VAWA 2022 Comments” to bbrueseke@suquamish.nsn.us
Please feel free to forward this notice to any and all interested people.
Health & Wellness
Suquamish to build opioid treatment clinic, transitional housing
TheSuquamish Tribe is moving forward with an ambitious plan to create a new culturally centered opioid addiction treatment clinic. A new director has been hired to lead the efforts. And a transitional housing recovery project is also in the works.
The opioid treatment center will offer a full array of medically assisted treatment, counseling and mental health therapy, health care, dental care, and other wrap-around services, all in one location, according to Suquamish Health Division Director Steve Kutz.
The Suquamish Tribe declared an opioid state of emergency on Sept 11, 2023, and ordered tribal government to create an emergency task force to begin work on a coordinated response.
One year into that work, the task force has transitioned into a steering committee, with Community Health Manager Jeff Riggins appointed chair and the Wellness Center’s Substance Use Disorder Supervisor Brian Burwell serving as vice chair.
“We’re committed to integrating cultural components into this clinic, which has been shown to improve outcomes in addiction recovery within tribal communities,” said Riggins. “Currently, the only opioid treatment clinic in Kitsap County is in Bremerton, but it lacks cultural elements and is located in a uninviting strip mall with minimal services that we already offer through our Wellness Center.”
Tribes do this well
“Tribal communities know how to do this well,” said Kutz, adding Suquamish is patterning its new clinic after successful tribal clinics in Swinomish and Jamestown. The Nisqually Tribe is set to open a new 22,000-square-foot facility in downtown Olympia in early 2025, serving both tribal and non-tribal clients.
“Suquamish wants to take care of its members, but also the general public. You want to heal the wider community around the tribe because that helps make the tribe safer, too,” Kutz said.
Plans call for locating the clinic at a site that is accessible with good public transportation. With early support from local leaders and organizations, Poulsbo is a leading option.
“We will likely start in a temporary location to begin building up our staff and get some services up and running while we create plans for the permanent location,” said Kutz.
New director hired Manuel Pablo has been hired to help lead the development as director of the clinic. Pablo comes to Suquamish from the Cowlitz Tribe where he helped create a similar addiction services clinic in Tukwila.
“We started from nothing and built a staff of more than 20 people with a client load approaching 200 people at any given time,” said Pablo. It was work that left him in awe of both the strength and resiliency of those in recovery.
“I’m amazed by the human spirit, to see people pull themselves out from the bottom of the bottom. That’s real courage. I get emotional about it. I’ve been to some tough places and there’s not a lot of things that get me stirred up, but that kind of courage is one of them.”
Tough places indeed. A former Army surgical nurse, Pablo deployed to Africa during the Ebola outbreak and did two combat deployments to Iraq. He knows the opioid crisis is another of kind of fight, but his time with the tribal community in Tukwila left him wanting to do even more.
“If we do this the right way, in the right spirit, I think the tribe will be very proud of this clinic,” said Pablo.
Transitional housing and more
Meanwhile, the tribe is in the process of creating a Transitional Housing Recovery Program, building off its initial Tiny Homes project.
Plans call for the construction of six transitional homes plus a clubhouse for group work and services, expected to open by next summer. Managed by the Wellness Center, services will include substance use treatment, mental health support, and employment assistance, said Riggins.
Wellness is also creating a new peer case manager position who will focus on outreach, engagement, and advocacy for clients in early recovery. The peer case manager will also provide naloxone training and help reduce barriers to recovery.
A new nurse-family partnership program offered by Community Health is also in the works. The program will offer comprehensive services to pregnant and postpartum women struggling with
opioid addiction. Tentatively set to launch early next year, services will include home visits by registered nurses starting early in pregnancy and continuing until the child’s second birthday.
The Opioid Crisis Steering Committee is also launching two new working groups:
• The Data Collection Workgroup will focus on gathering information from Suquamish Police, 911 dispatchers, local hospitals, and other partners to understand the community’s needs and gaps, said Riggins.
• Healing of the Canoe Workgroup has been tasked with updating and adapting the Healing of the Canoe program as a resource for treatment and recovery strategies.
“The Steering Committee plans to establish other workgroups to focus on community outreach, youth, education, policy, and more,” said Riggins. “These groups will include members of our community including tribal Elders, youth, and Tribal Council members.”
By Jon Anderson
Suquamish Tribe provides free naloxone kits, also known as Narcan, throughout the tribal community.
These easy-to-use nasal sprays can help save the life of someone overdosing on Fentanyl or other opioids.
Lobbies (during business hours):
Admin Building
Alexis Men’s Oxford House
Community Development
Community Health
Healing House
Human Services
Teresa Women’s Oxford House
Tribal Child Welfare
Exterior Locations (accessible 24-7):
Fitness Center
House of Awakened Culture
Old Man House Park Bathroom
Place of Change bathroom
Suquamish Church of Christ (near Food Pantry)
Suquamish Seafoods
Waterfront Park
Wellness Center/Police Department
Suquamish Tribe showcases link to Seattle with “Ancestral Waterways”
The Suquamish Tribe invited Seattle government and civic leaders to a special event in Pioneer Square on Sept. 11 to showcase the presence of the Suquamish Tribe in Seattle, beginning before Seattle became a city.
With tribal members of all ages present, Song & Dance, the Language Program, and Tribal Council members introduced city leaders to the history, culture, and way of life of Suquamish people.
Invited guests at the Ancestral Waterways event heard from Chairman Leonard Forsman about the locations of Chief Seattle’s famous speech and of a Suquamish village, and about the tribe’s continued treaty fishing in Elliott Bay from Vice Chair Joshua Bagley.
They sampled Suquamish smoked salmon, thanks to Tribal Council Member Luther “Jay” Mills, heard from Chief Seattle Days Royalty, and learned about language from Lushootseed Language Program Coordinator Cassandra George.
Suquamish Foundation Director Robin Sigo was the mistress of ceremonies.
The event, the latest in a series of “Good Neighbor” events, took place at a refurbished train depot in Pioneer Square, beautifully decorated with fresh flowers, driftwood from reservation beaches, and artwork loaned by tribal members. A display of photographs by former Tribal Council Secretary Nigel Lawrence was showcased in the venue’s gallery.
“Many thanks for sharing this space, food, and knowledge,” said one participant afterwards. “It was a moving opportunity to learn about Suquamish connections to this city and region — I left feeling both grateful for Suquamish stewardship of these lands and seas, and motivated to continue deepening my understanding of the Indigenous presence here today.”
The event was organized by the Suquamish Foundation and the tribe’s Communications Dept.
By Sarah van Gelder
Suquamish Tribe Office of Emergency Management Supports the Wildland Fire “Ready, Set, Go!” Model
The Suquamish Tribe Office of Emergency Management (OEM) is applying practical plans to safeguard our community as the threat of wildland fires grows in the Pacific Northwest. The OEM is supporting the regional “Ready, Set, Go!” (RSG) model, designed to prepare communities for the continuous threat of wildfires.
The RSG model is a three-step action plan that the community can use to be wildfire ready. Its focus is on preparedness, situational awareness, and taking action when a wildfire threatens.
1. Ready: Make your home and property fire-resistant before a wildfire strikes. This involves clearing a defensible space around your property, securing important belongings, and having an emergency kit and evacuation plan in place. The Suquamish Tribe OEM is offering support through individual planning and site visits to help you with these critical first steps.
2. Set: Be prepared to evacuate. This means staying informed about fire activity in our area, ensuring your vehicle is fueled — or have a plan for who can pick you up — and be ready to leave at a moment’s notice. The Suquamish OEM encourages residents to sign up for tribal emergency alerts at bit.ly/SUNupdate and download apps that track fire activity such as https://inciweb. wildfire.gov/.
3. Go: When you receive an evacuation alert, leave immediately. Don’t wait. Early evacuation not only helps keep you safe but also frees up critical resources for firefighting efforts. Pre-emptive evacuation is a key principle in reducing harm to residents and giving first responders the space they need to protect communities.
While our reservation is beautiful and green, our area has seen an alarming increase in wildfires due to changing climate conditions. Forests
and wildlands, previously immune to large fires, are now vulnerable, making your preparedness even more important.
The Suquamish Tribe OEM is committed to supporting the community by providing essential resources for fire preparedness. Through our partnerships with fire authorities, the tribe OEM offers fire-safe landscaping tips, evacuation plan templates, and informational brochures on defensible space.
For more information or support to help defend your home against wildland fires, visit the Suquamish Tribe Office of Emergency Management website at https://suquamish.nsn.us/home/ departments/office-of-emergency-management/ or contact our team for support at emergencymgt@ suquamish.nsn.us
By Cherrie May Emergency Management Manager
Chairman’s Report
We rely on our federal courts to interpret laws protecting our treaty rights, sovereignty, and jurisdiction. Our treaty rights are “the supreme law of the land,” and our rights to self-governance are rooted in the trust relationship established with the federal government and by extension to local and state government as well.
We need to continually educate the judiciary about Indian Law to make sure they have a clear understanding of our legal rights as they decide cases affecting our future. As part of this effort, at the invitation of the federal judiciary for the Western District of Washington, I joined Suquamish Tribal Court Judge Cindy Smith to provide an overview of current issues for tribal courts and tribal governments — especially in respect to jurisdiction for US. District Court judges for the Western District of Washington — at the Tacoma Courthouse. We are grateful to the court for inviting us, and we had a great discussion of the issues. I also had the opportunity to address the University of Washington School of Law’s annual Native Law Symposium to provide remarks about the contemporary challenges and successes that tribal governments face in protecting their legal rights and operating their governments and enterprises on and off reservation.
Protecting natural resources
We continue to make progress, despite many challenges, in protecting our natural resources. Vice Chairman Josh Bagley joined Representative Derek Kilmer, Governor Jay Inslee, and EPA Region 10 Administrator Casey Sixkiller to announce that the next phase of cleanup at the Wyckoff-Eagle Harbor Superfund site on Eagle Harbor, Bainbridge Island was going begin. The Biden-Harris Administration’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law has provided $80 million for the three-year cleanup phase. This is a former creosote plant that has contaminated soil and groundwater. I joined up with some of the participants on a tour of the site after the ceremony concluded.
Tribal Council and staff hosted a meeting with Col. Kathryn Sanborn, Commander, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Seattle District, and her team to provide them with information about the Suquamish Tribe, our fisheries, treaty rights protection activities, and cultural practices. We also heard about Col. Sanborn’s military experience, which included missions in Iraq and Afghanistan.
The West Sound Partners for Ecosystem Recovery met to discuss a funding opportunity for an Onsite Septic System Action Plan. We hope that this will initiate actions that will recertify shellfish beds in our usual and accustomed harvesting area. I also testified before the Seattle City Council Committee on Finance, Native Communities, and Tribal Governments regarding the Suquamish Tribe’s priorities as the committee provided a oneyear update of activities since the inaugural City of Seattle/Tribal Nations summit held last year at Daybreak Star. I provided a cultural and historical background of the Suquamish Tribe and our ancestral presence in Elliott Bay and the present City of Seattle.
National Sustainability Society held their annual conference at the University of Washington Seattle campus. I joined Ed Chu of Arizona State University to discuss the Suquamish Tribe’s efforts at sustaining our environment to support treaty fishing activities during a session entitled “Suquamish Tribe Sustainability.”
Tribal Council has been engaged in internal meetings including a session with our Emergency Management Program where we learned about
planning for natural disasters and other emergencies. We need to plan and prepare for the next disaster by having emergency supplies on hand.
We also met with our Suquamish Seafoods Enterprise Board to discuss their 2025 budget and plans to become a fully independent enterprise.
Teaching our youth
Education of our young people is a top priority as we bring more tribal curriculum into the schools to teach all students about our history and culture. Local school districts are required to consult with us on their native education programs. Tribal Council members met with the South Kitsap School District to hear more about their programs for native students and their efforts to introduce tribal history and culture curriculum into the classroom. We also met with North Kitsap School District to hear more about the Capital Levy that will be on the ballot in November. This will replace the previous levy and continue construction and infrastructure improvements at many of our schools including Suquamish Elementary.
The Tribal Leaders Congress on Education met virtually and received updates from the Office of the Superintendent of Public Instruction regarding their school administrator training program and also a review of the upcoming legislative session from State Senator Lisa Wellman.
The Suquamish Education Division hosted a curriculum review session with teachers from the Bainbridge Island School District. We are testing a tribal curriculum unit provided by a local educational developer for potential implementation in Bainbridge and other school districts.
The University of Washington Board of Regents held their September meeting on the Seattle campus. We received updates on our capital budget and the state of our investment portfolio. Much of the meeting was canceled due to a disruptive public protest and resumed virtually the next week. I also met with our new student regent Keondra Rustan to learn more about her academic research in psychiatry and introduce her to the role of the regents in overseeing the University operations.
(Continued next page)
Gatherings
I joined tribal government staff members and representatives from the Affiliated Tribes of Northwest Indians-Economic Development Corporation to explore ways to revitalize downtown Suquamish and establish a tribal entrepreneur support system.
The state of Washington and Washington’s tribes are working together to establish best practices for addressing the fentanyl crisis.
The Washington State Tribal Opioid and Fentanyl Response Task Force held a meeting to establish the working rules for the task force and identify work groups and set priorities.
The Suquamish Tribe hosted two important events last month. The Ancestral Waterways gathering was held in Pioneer Square and hosted by the Suquamish Foundation in an effort to educate the Seattle community about the history, culture, and ancestral presence of the Suquamish people on Elliott Bay and the City of Seattle.
Thanks to everyone who helped plan this event including Robin Sigo and her staff at the Suquamish Foundation, the Foundation Board, Tribal Council, the Cultural Resources Department, our Youth Council and royalty, and the Song & Dance group.
We also hosted this year’s Centennial Accord held at Kiana Lodge and the House of Awakened Culture.
This was Governor Inslee’s last accord as his third term is ending this year. Tribes honored the Governor at a ceremony held at Kiana.
Our Song & Dance group opened the ceremony by blessing the floor. We also had singers and dancers from the Lummi Blackhawks and the Tulalip Tribes.
Many other tribes shared words and gifts for the Governor. Thanks to Hailie Crow and the Kiana crew for a great lunch and dinner. Thanks to the fish and clam cooks for the traditional food for dinner and to Jay Mills for the appetizers. Thanks to Irene Carper, Josh Bagley, and Amber Lewis for logistics and planning assistance.
Thanks to the Maintenance Department for prepping the HOAC for Friday’s event. Thanks to Denita Holmes and the Cultural Resources Department for singing in the colors brought in by our Suquamish Warriors who we’re also thankful for.
By Leonard Forsman Suquamish Tribe Chairman
Tribal Council Schedule
Tribal Council meets October 7 & 21.
WILL PLANNING FREE!
OUR SERVICES
Last Will and Testament
Durable Power of Attorney
To make an appointment, contact Shilene George at (360) 394-8501 or shilenegeorge@suquamish.nsn.us
Starting January 1, 2025
Questions (360) 394-8423
Suquamish Housing
Department of Community Development
Oct 5 - Nov 23
FALL CLEANUP
Dates and Locations
Dates and Locations
Indianola: Sat Oct. 5
Indianola: Sat Oct 5
Eaglemere: Sat Oct. 12
Eaglemere: Sat Oct 12
Tundra: Sat Oct. 19
Tundra: Sat Oct 19
Tuckers Topsoil: Sat, Oct. 26
Tuckers Topsoil: Sat Oct 26
George Lane: Sat Nov. 2
Items Accepted,
George Lane: Sat Nov 2
Woolly Dog: Sat Nov. 9
Sackman: Sat Nov. 16
Woolly Dog: Sat Nov 9
Other household Isobutane, butane, other pressurized propane bottles and auto batteries. ITEMS PER HOUSEHOLD)
Sackman: Sat Nov 16
Wee Wun: Sat Nov. 23
Wee Wun: Sat Nov 23
Time 9am – 3:30pm
Time 9am – 3:30pm
Items Accepted:
Items NOT Accepted: We are not accepting garbage, furniture, mattresses, or electronics.
(No empty, leaking, or damaged containers)
Items Accepted: (no empty, leaking, or damaged containers)
Liquid household wastes: Paints, oils (including cooking oils), antifreeze, cleaning products, flammable liquids/solvents, herbicides and pesticides. (UP TO 15 GALLONS PER HOUSEHOLD)
If you have larger any questions, or please contact:
Jaime Lawrence Solid Waste Coordinator (360) 471-3500 jaimelawrence@suquamish.nsn.us
Solid household waste: Batteries, aerosol cans, fluorescent tubes, cfl bulbs, mercury thermometers, and road flares.
Liquid household wastes: Paints, oils (including cooking oils), antifreeze, cleaning products, flammable liquids/solvents, herbicides and pesticides. (UP TO 15 GALLONS PER HOUSEHOLD)
Other household wastes: Isobutane, butane, propane, and other pressurized fuel canisters, propane bottles (1 liter or smaller), and auto batteries. (UP TO 10 ITEMS PER HOUSEHOLD)
Items NOT Accepted:
Solid household waste: Batteries, aerosol cans, fluorescent tubes, cfl bulbs, mercury thermometers, and road flares.
Shane Crowell Solid Waste & Environmental Quality Program (360) 536-1672 shanecrowell@suquamish.nsn.us
We are not accepting household garbage, furniture, appliances, mattresses, or electronics.
If you have larger quantities, or any questions, or need assistance, please contact:
Jaime Lawrence, Solid Waste Coordinator (360) 471-3500
jaimelawrence@suquamish.nsn.us
Shane Crowell, Solid Waste & Environmental Quality Program Manager (360) 536-1672
shanecrowell@suquamish.nsn.us
The Kitsap County Sewer Rates will increase to $104.25 per month
2025 SEWER RATE INCREASE
Elections 2024 – How you can be part of it
Onehundred years ago, in 1924, Native people got the right to vote with the adoption of the Indian Citizenship Act. Since then, many obstacles were put in the way of full participation of Indian citizens. Nonetheless, the Native vote is increasingly important, and political leaders are finding they can no longer neglect the rights and aspirations of tribal communities.
In 2024, with crucial candidates and initiatives on the ballot, Chairman Leonard Forsman and other Suquamish leaders are urging everyone to register and vote. Here’s how you can do so here in Washington state:
Tribal Council Endorsements: Before Oct. 18, Suquamish Tribal Council will announce endorsements, and the list of recommendations will be sent to the Tribal community via SUN and published on Facebook.
Get your ballot: On Oct. 18, ballots will be mailed to registered voters. Also, Accessible Voting Units will be available at voting centers
like the Auditor’s office at 619 Division St, Port Orchard.
Register to vote! Between now and Oct. 28, you can register online at votewa.gov. If you need to update your registration, you can do so before Oct 28 at the same website—just log in with your name and birthday.
If you prefer to register by mail, pick up a voter registration form at the front desk of the Tribe’s administration building.
Anyone who is a citizen of the United States and a resident of Washington state can register to vote if you are 18 years old and older. If you are 16 or 17 years old, you can still register as a Future Voter. If you do, you will automatically be eligible to vote on your 18th birthday, and you will receive a ballot in the mail.
Between Oct. 28 and Election Day, Nov. 5, you can register to vote in person or update your registration at 619 Division St, in Port Orchard. You can register any time during business hours at
this address, but registering at votewa.gov before Oct. 28 is the easiest way to get signed up.
VOTE! Nov. 5 is Election Day. Make sure to drop off your ballot in a ballot box before 8pm on Nov. 5 or any time you have it filled out. There is a ballot box outside the front door of the Tribe’s Administration Building. Or you can just put it in the mail—no stamp required. Make sure to sign and date the outside of the envelope.
Kitsap Salmon Tours offers up close look at annual migration
The Suquamish Tribe’s Merele Hayes Salmon Enhancement Center will be among seven sites across Kitsap County offering an up close-and-personal look at the annual salmon migration Nov 2, 2024 from 11am-2pm.
Please join us as we explore all things salmon with biologists, local environmental organizations, and trained docents. This free event offers exciting opportunities such as interactive activities, guided walks, and much more, with different activities at each site. The sites include:
Merele Hayes Salmon Enhancement Center (23175 Indianola Rd NE, Poulsbo) will feature live fish viewing, salmon dissections, and crafts with Fisheries staff.
Clear Creek Trail Ridgetop Pavilion (9228 Ridgetop Blvd., Silverdale) provides salmon rearing habitat for chum, coho, cutthroat, and steelhead trout.
Poulsbo’s Fish Park (288 NW Lindvig Way, Poulsbo) offers a 40-acre park providing great wildlife viewing opportunities in the Liberty Bay estuary, where you can see chum, coho, and cutthroat trout.
Salmon Haven at Dickerson Creek (Northlake Way NW and Taylor Road, Bremerton) at the confluence of Chico Creek and Dickerson creek home to mostly chum salmon.
Chico Salmon Park (3150 Chico Way, Bremerton) offering a unique 4.5-acre county park offering natural populations of native salmonids including chum, coho, steelhead, and cutthroat trout.
Keta Legacy Foundation Rhododendron Preserve (2401 Seabeck Highway, Bremerton), a 426-acre preserve located on the Chico Creek watershed near the Lost Creek tributary.
Come discover local salmon species, their lifecycles, and the role you play in their survival as you experience this remarkable migration firsthand.
By Hanna Brush Natural Resources Field Biologist
Catherine’s Column
October
is Domestic Violence Awareness month, and I want to invite you to be part of events that will be happening here in Suquamish aimed at bringing awareness and ending violence in tribal communities.
You’ve heard the statistics: More than half of Native women are victims of violence from intimate partners. Once, while working on this issue, we were watching the flag ceremony, watching the POW/MIA flag enter. I couldn’t help but think we should also have a flag for the women who lose their lives in the everyday battlefield of their homes.
Many people think that ending domestic violence is women’s work. But protecting families, keeping our children safe, and breaking cycles of trauma and violence will take the work of both men and women. That’s why this year’s Domestic Violence Awareness events will include an opportunity for men to sign a pledge on Oct. 22 with a commitment to keeping our women and children safe.
Men who sign the pledge can be role models, standing up and saying, “Not in our communities! Not anymore!” Our brothers, fathers, grandfathers, uncles, cousins are a powerful force in bringing about the change that is needed to end the cycle of violence! Knowing that our men are willing to step up into leadership roles on this issue will bring healing and hope.
For Domestic Violence Awareness month, Nina Old Coyote and her Integrated Victim Services team are also planning a march on Oct. 25 and other events (see details on page 4). I am grateful for their leadership, and I hope to see lots of participation from tribal government staff and from the community.
Other departments are also working in their
ways to end the crisis that is domestic violence, including our TCW, Police Department, Legal, Courts, and Wellness teams.
With the passage of VAWA 2022 our Legal and Courts teams are proposing code changes in keeping with the 2022 update of VAWA (Violence Against Women Act). VAWA was expanded to include the ability of tribal law enforcement to prosecute non-Natives for stalking, crimes against children, and other violent crimes. We know that children are affected in many ways when witnessing or living in homes where violence happens. The code changes are designed to give us a tool to protect our kids (see more on page 5).
There are so many ways we can all support each other and lean in on our cultural teachings. Culture heals. For me, when I was in recovery from a violent relationship, the weekly dance practice, working with the children’s dance group and cultural gatherings where I could sing and dance — immersed in my culture and community — is what helped me make it through a very tumultuous time.
Of course, domestic violence is an issue we must confront beyond the month of October. Year-round, our Integrated Victim Services team has a safe space for those experiencing domestic violence to be heard, supported, and to receive services. Other departments also focus on healing and preventing violence. The Early Learning Center holds “Fatherhood is Sacred” gatherings. The Fitness Center is holding women’s and girls’ self-defense classes. Other departments offer healing groups for perpetrators, mentorships for men, and support groups for those in recovery.
I hope you will get involved. Please join us for the Domestic Violence Walk, sign the men’s pledge, and wear purple throughout the month of October (purple ribbons are available at the Administration Building front desk) and post a picture on Facebook. Together, we can break the cycle of violence in our communities and protect the next generation. Sovereignty is a safe community with safe and happy homes in our tribal communities.
We realize that discussion of domestic violence may be triggering — please call our team at Wellness if you need to talk to someone.
Respectfully,
Catherine Edwards Executive Director, Suquamish Tribe
New Hires & Transfers
*Elizabeth Napoleon SUDP Apprentice Wellness
Austin WionRathbun EHS Assistant Teacher ELC
Manuel Pablo Opioid Treatment Clinic Director Health
Kaiden Finkbonner Court Bailiff Courts
*Jeramie Smith Health Benefits Coord. Health
*Kal-a-kwah-te Deam Education Specialist Education
*Kalise CorderoDizon EHS Assistant Teacher ELC
* Suquamish tribal member ** Suquamish descendant
***Native American/Alaska Native
Beef and Bean Burrito
Green Beans Fresh Fruit
Cook’s Special Chili Tossed Salad w/ Strawberries Corn Bread Cottage Cheese and Peaches Chicken
Macaroni & Cheese
Elders
Corner
September
Movie Night: Beetlejuice 2 was the movie of the night and was fun to watch. We think it is the first time that all of the Elders chose the same film.
Remember to mark your calendars for the 2nd Tuesday of each month for Elders Movie Night (aka date night). Let Della or Melissa know if you need transportation. Skip Elevado is joining the most honored, exclusive, and elite club on Oct. 17, 2024.
That’s when he enters that “90 Years Young Club.” If you see Skip in the neighborhood, please give him a Happy Birthday shout out! So far, this exclusive club includes Rich Demain, his lil’ sister Dolores (Delor) Mills, Albertina (Tina) McIntosh, Skip’s older sister, and Ed Carriere.
Our Tie Dye T-shirt Class at the Elders Lodge was a success. It was a very hot afternoon, so the work was done outside on the deck overlooking the water. We were honored to have Marilyn Jones join us in her wheelchair. She is getting stronger every day.
The t-shirts that Troy and Vickie Mabe posted in the Elders Facebook group were amazing. Cathlene Norris attempted to make a heart on her t-shirt, but it didn’t quite come out the way she wanted. She attempted it again at home and it came out to perfection. Cathlene will have to teach us her technique next time.
Yogurt Parfait w/ Granola & Berries
Chicken Fajita
Refried Beans
Apple– Carrot
Shephard’s
We had a wonderful time at the Washington State Fair. The weather was not too hot or cold, and all the Elders made it back on the bus (even the rascals who missed the ferry last month, ha ha).
The winner for Most Purchased Item had to be scones, although a lot of tasty fried food was eaten. Our Scooter Brigade was in full force. Some Elders are pretty fast on those vehicles — watch out for those speedy Aunties & Uncles!
The Elders Volleyball Team had a scrimmage against Little Boston. Ours is a small but mighty team, and they gave a good fight. Elder Troy Mabe reminded us that the team would like to recruit more members.
Elders Fitness is every week at 10:3011:30am on Tuesdays & Thursdays, with
Fall & Winter Weather Household Maintenance Tips
Fallis here and winter is on its way. Here are some suggested home maintenance tips to better prepare your home and potentially avoid higher utility bills or costly repairs to your home.
• Clean your gutters. It is a dirty job, but it can save your roof and prevent water damage. Make sure gutter downspouts are draining water away from your home’s foundation to ensure a dry crawl space and re-check after every large windstorm.
• Disconnect outside hoses and install a hose bib cover and wrap water pipes beneath home.
• Check windows and doors for air leaks. You may need to reinstall weather stripping and door sweeps as they wear out over time and can prevent cold air entering the home.
• Clean your heating devices, replace furnace filters, adjust thermostats as necessary.
• Switch the direction of ceiling fan to ensure proper air flow/ heat distribution.
• Have your chimney cleaned, inspected, and re-certified prior to your first fire.
• Check your smoke detector batteries and replace them if needed.
• Check or purchase new fire extinguisher, replace if needed.
• Clean your dryer hose and clear it of lint.
By Lois “Lane” Sullivan Community Development Housing Program
volleyball practice on Thursdays. Come join us so we can build an Elders Volleyball Team to be feared!
Thank You Creator, that right now we have no Elders in the hospital. We send out prayers and good thoughts to those who are experiencing trying times or are in need.
Happy trails to you, until we meet again!
By Della Crowell and Melissa Lund Elders Program
If you cannot walk away when you’ve reached your limit, or if you find yourself preoccupied with thoughts of gambling or in conflict with others because of your gambling activity, we can help.
Contact the Suquamish Tribe Wellness Center at (360) 394-7139 or (360) 3948558. We are here for you.
Call or text WA State 24-hour Helpline 1-800-547-6133. There is hope. Treatment is available and effective.
All Suquamish and Indigenous parents in the Suquamish community are encouraged to register for this conference. The conference committee also welcomes matriarchs, grandparents, caretakers, and champions of Indigenous families! Register at bit.ly/STparents or contact me for more information, csilvey@suquamish.nsn.us or (360) 394-7103.
This conference is made possible with the award of the Parents As Teachers “Investing in the Power of Families” challenge grant.
By Cori Silvey
Home Visiting Program Supervisor
OCTOBER 15th to DECEMBER 7th
Community
SUQUAMISH WELCOME POLE
· DEDICATION ·
PLEASE JOIN US
Wednesday, October 9, 2024, 3 pm
Sound to Olympics Trail, Bainbridge Island (a short walk north of Winslow Way and SR 305)
Reception at Bainbridge Island Museum of Art (BIMA) to follow Free parking at Waterfront Park and BIMA’s upper lot
Offering primary care for adults and children, chronic disease management, preventive visits, women’s health, naturopathic medicine. Call for info: 360-394-1350
Tribal Members
Tribal Members who would like to advertise their business, nonprofit, or side hustle in the Suquamish News can now submit a business card — or business card-sized ad — for publication. This is a free service for tribal members only. Ads can be for seasonal crafts, start-ups, full-time or part-time ventures or nonprofits. We have several templates to choose from if your card is not optimal for newsprint. Contact us at the email below to discuss.
Ads will begin in the November issue, just in time for the holiday shopping season. The deadline to submit your ad is Oct 17. Size of the ad is limited to 3.5-inches by 2-inches (standard business card size) in either horizontal or vertical layout. Send to communications@suquamish.nsn.us or drop off at the Tribal Administration Building main reception desk in an envelope marked “Attn: Communications.”
HONORARY GUESTS
Sue Larkin photo
Suquamish Tribe Healing House
DR. KRISTINE EWING, MD, FAMILY MEDICINE
DR. CASEY KERNAN, DO
October
October 1
Jacob Johnson
Victory Mowitch
October 2
Alice Pondelick
Alicia Potts
Damian Lawrence
Evan Elevado
October 3
Ah-nika-leesh Chiquiti
Savannah Rodriguez
October 4
Chelsea Forsman
David Sherman
Eliseo Lowry
Jeffrey Elevado
Kenneth Hagen
Shyan Zaiss
William Stroud
October 5
Andi Morris
Cynthia Williams
Jeffrey Riggins
October 6
Molly Middleton
Olivia Shaw
October 7
Ashton Purser
Chad Trask
Denita Holmes
Reina Garrett-Reynoso
Tracy Tabafunda
October 8
Lauren Fraser
October 9
Gordon Hawk III
Kassia Smith
Ronnie Glaze
October 10
Ibrahim Trawally
Patrice Wilcox
Ronald Purser Jr.
October 11
Aaron Lawrence
Karsyn Setten
Robin Sigo
October 12
Anna Widen
Blain Wolten
Douglas George
October13
Nigel Lawrence
October 14
Dale Ahvakana
Gaylon Vaught
October 15
A-lish-tassen Chiquiti
Charles Vollenweider
Jana Mills
Lillian Pondelick
Melita Zaiss
Rose Sigo
Shelley Immken
Sherry Robles
October 16
Charles Deam Jr.
John Jones
Nadia Armstrong
Shauna Hedin
Wyatt Mabe
October 17
Lawrence Elevado
October 18
Bryce Bradwell
Dolores Bakken
Kirt Napoleon
Neah Porraz
October 19
Danielle Palomino
Maddox Duthie
October 20
Cheyenne Castaneda-Sigo
Daniel Pratt
Heather Purser
Narjiss Ridani
October 21
Andrew Christensen
October 22
Keokuk Peterson
Pierce Peterson
October 23
Aaron Napoleon
Destiny Mabe
Lawrence (Pete) Hawk
Martha Mabe
Shanel Carlson
Shelley Wood
October 24
Ian Lawrence
Jacob Patrick
James Clark
Birthdays
October 25
Chynna Murphy-Rubeck
Courtney Gooby
Emmy Fowler
Janet Surratt
Jordan Joe
Shery Werbelo
October 26
Emily Castaneda-Sigo
Karen Villanueva
October 27
Aiden Willis
Brendan Robson
Gloria Viray
Jerin Bagley
October 28
Andrew Joe Jr.
Irene Carper
October 30
Aubrey Collier
Brittany Bakken
Celia Williams
Destiny Pool
Erika Cordero
Hunter Brown
Raymond Pondelick
Robert Alexander Jr.
October 31
May your year be filled with love, laughter, and endless joy.
We love you so much!!! Love mom, dad, brother, and sister!
Cindy Webster-Martinson
Rebekah Stewart
Timothy Midkiff
William Forsman
Wishing you the greatest year to come!! We Love You!
CULTURE NIGHTS
HALLOWEEN
