qyuuqs News May 2025 by Swinomish qyuuqs News

editor’s NOTE

Time to Soak Up Some Sun

It’s the time of year to get out and embrace the sunlight and great outdoors! Whether you’re lounging on the porch, wandering through the forest, enjoying a play day at the park, spending a breezy day on the water, or just catching up on yard work — May is here and it is inviting us all to step outside.

One of my favorite spring rituals is visiting the local nursery and getting my garden started with the flowers and vegetables I picked — it is so grounding. It is my favorite way to connect with the season and appreciate the beautiful place we are blessed to call home.

As the days grow longer and warmer, I hope you’re enjoying all the things you love to do at this vibrant time of year.

Your voice matters!

Swinomish Public Health needs to learn more about the health and wellness of the community. You have an opportunity to share your thoughts at a small in-person focus group this May. Your insights will help create better Public Health programs, and stronger support for everyone.

Space is limited to 30 participants per group. There will be a $100 incentive as a thank you for participating in the full session.

MAY 19: SITC adults 18-54 years old 6 p.m. at Social Services

MAY 20: SITC elders

12 p.m. at the Senior Center - come for lunch then join the focus group at noon

MAY 19: SITC youth* 12-17 years old 3:45 p.m. at the Boys & Girls Club Teen Room

*Note: Youth need a signed consent form a parent or guardian

Summer is around the corner, so it is time to take advantage of the gentle sun rays and cool Pacific Northwest breeze while we can.

Don’t forget to check out the Community Happenings section. There are so many events on the horizon –and it is only just the beginning of our community’s busy season!

Thank you for reading the May edition of qyuuqs News.

goliahlitza, Caroline Ammons

TRIBAL SENATE

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Steve Edwards, Chairman (360) 840-5768 | sedwards@swinomish.nsn.us

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Brian Porter, Vice Chairman (360) 840-4186 | bporter@swinomish.nsn.us

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Jeremy Wilbur, Treasurer (360) 770-7447 | jjwilbur@swinomish.nsn.us

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Rodney John, Secretary (360) 708-1387 | rjohn@swinomish.nsn.us

nu-was-k -luk

Fred Cayou (360) 708-2401 | fcayou@swinomish.nsn.us

siwəlcəʔ

Alana Quintasket (360) 302-0971 | aquintasket@swinomish.nsn.us

spi sta yup tun

Greg Edwards (360) 854-8612 | gedwards@swinomish.nsn.us

kaniʔtəd

Tandy Wilbur (360) 770-3050 | tandywilbur@swinomish.nsn.us

qws stania

Aurelia Bailey (360) 853-6376 | awashington@swinomish.nsn.us

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Barbara James (360) 391-3958 | bjames@swinomish.nsn.us

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Bruce James Jr. (360) 708-5779 | brucejames@swinomish.nsn.us

The official news publication of the Swinomish Indian Tribal Community

The mission of qyuuqs News is to provide monthly communication to Swinomish Indian Tribal Community Members near and far. We are committed to serving as an apolitical forum for the Swinomish governing officials and all Community Members. qyuuqs News is not intended to reflect the official position of the governing body at Swinomish Indian Tribal Community but rather reflects the ideas, events, and thoughts of individual Community Members and Tribal staff. As such, the Swinomish Tribe makes no claim as to the accuracy or content of any of the articles contained therein.

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*SUBMISSIONS

Send your news tips, stories, and photos to: qyuuqs@swinomish.nsn.us

Submission deadline: 10th day of the month

QYUUQS NEWS

Caroline Ammons, Editor qyuuqs@swinomish.nsn.us

SWINOMISH COMMUNICATIONS

Heather Mills, Communications Manager

Sarah Kellogg, Content Journalist

Katie Bassford, Staff Photographer

Jordan Ekdahl, Graphic Designer communications@swinomish.nsn.us

ADVISORY COMMITTEE

Tracy James, John Stephens, Kevin Paul

This issue is available online at swinomish-nsn.gov/who-we-are/page/ qyuuqs-news

Facebook: Swinomish qyuuqs News

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*qyuuqs News is made available for viewing on the Internet

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When submitting information, stories, and/or photos, please be aware everything published in the print version of qyuuqs News is also published on the Internet and is available to the world. Please consider carefully whether your submissions contain anything you feel may not be suitable or appropriate for the Internet. By submitting your information, stories, and/or photos to qyuuqs News, you agree to publishing your submission in both the print and online versions of qyuuqs News. qyuuqs News is a publication of the Swinomish Indian Tribal Community produced by Swinomish Communications.

WHAT DOES IT MEAN TO BE AT RISK FOR A DISEASE?

STACEY ANDERSON, PUBLIC HEALTH MANAGER

When scrolling through the news, you might see headlines like, “How to lower your risk for heart disease” or, “Are you at risk for being hospitalized for COVID?”

What does “at risk” really mean?

If you are at risk for a disease or condition, then you have certain risk factors that could increase the chance of it developing.

What is a risk factor?

A risk factor is anything that can increase the chance of developing a chronic disease like asthma or arthritis, or getting sick from a virus, bacteria, or fungi.

There are two types of risk factors: modifiable and nonmodifiable.

Modifiable risk factors are things that a person can change to reduce their risk of developing a disease. These include lifestyle choices such as quitting smoking or making dietary changes, as well as other prevention steps such as getting a flu shot every year, or being prescribed cholesterol lowering drugs.

Non-modifiable risk factors are things that cannot be changed like genetics, age, gender, or family history. An example is the risk of developing certain cancers such as breast or colorectal cancer, which can sometimes run in families. The good news about this type of risk factor is that there are ways to watch, or “screen,” for the disease. These screening tools include mammograms or colonoscopies, and can help to diagnose and treat disease at an early stage.

Having a chronic medical condition can be risk factors for infectious diseases. If you have a condition that affects your lungs, such as asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), you may have an increased risk of severe infection or hospitalization from viral illnesses like influenza, COVID, or RSV.

How do I lower my risk?

First, learn what your risks are. Understanding your risk for a specific disease or condition is important for prevention and early detection. For example, if diabetes or heart disease runs in your family, you may have an increased risk of having the same disease yourself.

Here are several steps you can take to reduce your risk of developing infectious or chronic diseases:

‣ Don’t smoke.

‣ Choose a healthy diet.

‣ Get regular physical activity.

‣ Get adequate sleep.

‣ Limit your alcohol intake.

‣ Practice good hygiene (wash your hands)!

‣ Stay up to date on recommended vaccinations.

‣ Schedule regular appointments with your healthcare provider for recommended screenings.

‣ Visit a dentist regularly.

‣ Practice safe sex – use protection to reduce the risk of acquiring sexually transmitted infections (STIs).

‣ Wear sunscreen to prevent sunburn and lower your risk for developing skin cancer.

There may be other situations outside of your day-today life when you will need to think about preventive measures to lower your risks. For example:

Are you traveling to another country? Consider getting recommended travel vaccines or taking preventive medication before your trip.

Is there about to be a new baby in your life? Think about ways to lower baby’s risk of getting sick from you:

‣ Wash your hands frequently.

‣ Postpone a visit if you are not feeling well.

‣ Babies are at a higher risk for some diseases like pertussis (whooping cough). Getting a Tdap vaccine before baby is born will protect you and baby.

‣ Breastfeeding or feeding baby human milk can also pass along antibodies that protect them from some illnesses.

Talk with your healthcare provider on the types of screenings and other things that you can do to reduce your risk of diseases and improve your overall quality of life.

RECENT SWINOMISH TRIBAL CODE AMENDMENTS

BRIANA PORTER, OFFICE OF TRIBAL ATTORNEY

The Swinomish Senate, the governing body of the Swinomish Indian Tribal Community, recently enacted the following code amendments:

Title 17, Chapter 11 – Trust Improvement Use and Occupancy Tax

At the March 2025 Senate meeting, the Senate made revisions to the Tribe’s Trust Improvement Use and Occupancy Tax Code. The revisions correct technical and typographical errors, address specifications regarding the role of the Swinomish Tax Administrator and the associated duties of that position with authorization for the Tax Administrator to enter into payment plans with taxpayers for past-due taxes, and include specifications regarding the composition and appointment of the Tax Committee. The Swinomish Tax Committee recommended the amendment, which the Senate enacted on March 4, 2025.

Title 18, Chapters 2 and 3 – Administration and Fishing

At the March 2025 Senate meeting, the Senate made revisions to the Tribe’s Administration and Fishing

chapters of the Natural Resources Code. The amendment repeals the withholding of a percentage of the proceeds of sales of fish taken in the exercise of Swinomish treaty fishing rights, known as the “fish tax,” effective March 19, 2025. This change does not affect any tax remittance due and owing at the time of enactment or the requirement that tax collected prior to March 19, 2025, be remitted to the Tribe. The amendment was enacted by the Senate on March 19, 2025.

Title 3, Chapter 1 – Establishment and Authority

At the April 2025 Senate meeting, the Senate made revisions to the Tribe’s Establishment and Authority Chapter of the Tribal Court Code. The amendment refines the description of jurisdiction, specifically in STC 3-01.050. The Legal Committee recommended the amendment, which the Senate enacted on April 1, 2025.

The amended code and Constitution are available for review on our website at swinomish-nsn.gov/. Paper copies are available for review at the Tribal Court Clerk office or the Office of the Tribal Attorney.

COMMUNITY HAPPENINGS

MAY 5

MMIW Dinner 6 p.m., Boys & Girls Club

MAY 5, 12 +19

PRBO Patient Registration Event 10 a.m.-12 p.m. and 1-5 p.m., Social Services

MAY 6

Senate Meeting 9 a.m., Senate Chamber or Zoom

MAY 7

Career Fair 11 a.m.-2 p.m., La Conner High School gym

MAY 10 + 17

Small Business Workshop 10 a.m.-2:30 p.m., Social Services

MAY 14

Safeway gift card distribution Elders 10 a.m., all others 11 a.m., drive-thru at Fish Plant Spending Frenzy 6:30-8 p.m., Boys & Girls Club

MAY 15

Blessing of the Fleet 11 a.m. Boys & Girls Club, Followed by the Blessing

MAY 20

Tasting Table - Canned Salmon Meals 12-1 p.m., Fitness Center

MAY 21

Community Update Meeting Topics: Healthcare Services + Opioid Response Update 6-7 p.m., Senate Chamber or Zoom

MAY 26

Memorial Day Service 10 a.m. Swinomish Cemetery

Tribal Adminsistration Closed

MAY 28

Community Dinner, 6 p.m., Boys & Girls Club"Fish Wars" movie showing

MAY 29

Family Education & Support Group 5-6 p.m., Social Services

TIDEGATE MITIGATION CONCLUSION MADE

A federal district court ruled April 28 on the NOAA Fisheries’ Biological Opinion (“BiOp”) that found Skagit Dike District 12’s No Name Slough tidegate complex replacement would result in “jeopardy” to ESA-listed Chinook salmon and endangered Southern Resident killer whales unless estuary habitat mitigation measures were completed. Swinomish filed an amicus “friend of the court” brief in support of NMFS to defend and uphold the biological opinion. The court concluded that the BiOp is “reasonable, supported by the record, and is financially feasible.”

Comment from Swinomish Tribal Chairman

Steve Edwards:

“We are very pleased that the federal district court recognized NMFS’s use of best available science in determining that replacing a fish-blocking tidegate causes harm to ESA-listed Chinook salmon and endangered Southern Resident killer whales that must be adequately mitigated if we are going to recover these iconic species. Approximately 85% of Skagit estuary habitat has been converted to intensive agriculture and is blocked by tidegates and levees, and best science is clear that this lack of habitat is a primary limiting factor to ESA-listed Chinook salmon recovery. There is no question that replacing tidegates in the Skagit estuary perpetuates harm to salmon by blocking fish access and choking off natural estuary habitat-forming processes. This all causes harm to the Swinomish people and our economic and cultural livelihoods, spiritual traditions, and private property rights. This court ruling should ensure that all tidegate replacement proposals will have to mitigate the harm they cause to estuary habitat, which is essential to the recovery of ESA-listed salmon and killer whales.”

For more information, read the November press release at sitcgov.us/Tidegates

Richard Jimmy Cayou Jr.

Richard was born on March 28, 1983. He passed away at home in Swinomish on April 15, 2025. He was born to Richard Cayou Sr. and Charlene Clark in Anacortes Washington. He attended the La Conner Schools. Richard had four Siblings Madeline (Brian) Starr, Christine Cayou, late Lynn Cayou and a twin Sister Alicia Cayou. He met his love Abrianna Sampson and they made their home in Swinomish. Abrianna blessed him with three amazing Children Kashlyn, Kacelyn, and his newborn son Kardarius. Richard also has four other Children May and Alina, George, Cody, and Charlene White. Abrianna shared, he loved to spend time with his kids and family rebuilding new relationships with his family in his life of sobriety, being on the water, fishing, crabbing, and clam digging, relaxing at home and in his bed watching football, he loved cooking in the kitchen and with the Sampson family, and cleaning the Shaker Church scraping wax off the floor. He loved to go on car rides, go to Whistle and Baker lakes and going out to eat. He enjoyed his job at Pioneer Market. Richard talked with Madeline daily, he loved talking on the phone with her daily. Madeline shared he was a kindhearted individual with a deep affection for everyone, always ready to his top priority and he was a dedicated Father, Brother, Uncle, Nephew, Cousin and Friend. Renowned for hist extroverted personality and strong work ethic. Richard was baptized in the 1910 Shaker Church. He joined the Smokehouse on February 17, 2002 in Kulleet Bay, B.C., Canada. His Godparents were the late Tim Edwards Sr., and Lona Paul.

Richard is proceeding in death by his Grandparents John Cayou Sr., Madeline Stone Cayou, Charles Clark, Edith Bailey Clark, Siblings Lynn Cayou and twin Sister Alicia Cayou numerous Uncles, Aunts and Cousins.

He is survived by Abriana Sampson; his Children, Kardarius, Kashlyn and Kacelyn Cayou, Macy and Alina, George, Cody and Charlene White; Parents Richard Cayou Sr. (Debbie), Charlene Clark, siblings Madeline (Brian) Starr, Christine Cayou, Uncles Jerry Cayou, Frankie Cayou and Walter Clark Sr., Aunts Kim Edwards, Yvette James, and numerous Nieces, Nephews, and Brothers.

Swinomish EDUCATION DINNER

It's time to honor the hard work of our students!

June 17, 6:00pm

Swinomish Ladies Club Hosts the Easter Egg Hunt!

Jayden, Martin Jr. and Elainna waiting to go find some eggs

Oakland, Madilynn and Theo James check their eggs for toys, candy and tickets

Amiyah Cayou

Annalene Topaum-Ballew

Amari Toby with a golden egg prize

Richard Damien

Lukah Edwards finds $20 in one of his eggs

King Sampson wins a gift card to Swinomish Markets

Austin Damien Jr. with one of the grand prize baskets

Washington Pulls Funding for Tidal Energy Project

April 4, 2025 – Washington state pulled funding for a tidal energy project in Skagit Bay after the intervention of Swinomish leadership. Aquantis Energy, the company behind the project, had proposed to perform in-water testing of a 33-foot tidal turbine in northern Skagit Bay between Yokeko Point and Skagit Island over the spring and summer.

While the Tribe supports clean energy development, in a February letter to state agencies, Chairman Edwards wrote that allowing the in-water turbine testing would “directly interfere and conflict with our historical access to this important fishing area for cultural, subsistence, ceremonial and economic practices,” due to the location of the proposed testing.

Additionally, leadership shared concerns that the technology would directly and negatively impact marine life – including four Endangered Species Act-listed species –and that the project had not been thoroughly reviewed for potential environmental and cultural resource effects.

Using the tide to generate electricity is a reliable form of clean energy; unlike solar or wind energy, which is dependent on the weather, tides are consistent and can be forecast decades out. Other similar projects have previously been proposed in the Salish Sea, including one in Admiralty Inlet by Snohomish County PUD. Their project was discontinued in 2014 due to cost and funding issues, but had been opposed by Tulalip, Suquamish, and the Point No Point Treaty Council due to concerns about impacts to marine life and treaty fishing.

Orcas Power and Light Cooperative (OPALCO) is currently undergoing the permitting process to begin testing a tidal energy project in Rosario Strait. In a letter to the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, Swinomish’s Environmental Policy Director Amy Trainer wrote, “ While we appreciate OPALCO’s initiative to contribute to clean energy goals, Swinomish believes it is essential that the environmental and cultural rights of the Swinomish Tribal Community are embraced and prioritized in this process.”

Swinomish’s Food Security and Food Sovereignty

Feeding America is a national hunger-relief nonprofit that has supported Indigenous groups through its network of more than 200 national food banks, and in recent years has endeavored to solidify its partnerships with tribal nations through their Natives Prepared project. The Swinomish Tribe was one of five tribal nations selected for the pilot cohort along with the Hualapai in Arizona, the Onondaga Nation in New York, the United Houma Nation in Louisiana, and the Sisseton Wahpeton Oyate in South Dakota.

The overarching aim of Natives Prepared is twofold: to empower Indigenous groups to produce and/or source their own food, and to ensure they have integrated disaster resources.

The Swinomish Social Services Department created a food distribution system for the community using every resource available during COVID-19, including high quality and locally sourced seafood purchased from Swinomish tribal fisherman. Since COVID, it has been the staff’s main goal to source the Tribe’s own food as a response to an emergency when food lines go down. Social Services wants to be prepared and continue to create systems that gives the Tribe control over food resources. This is a method of food sovereignty to help combat hunger.

The Feeding America Natives Prepared grant will help the Swinomish Tribe continue the work led by the Social Services Department to improve their ability to respond to disaster situations. The $400,000 grant will fund classes that ensure the Tribe’s traditional practices in food preparation continue for the next generations – such as filleting fish, and cooking and handling seafood safely. Food insecurity will be addressed while also supporting the local economy by continuing to buy directly from Swinomish Tribal fisherman to foster community resilience and use sustainable harvesting practices. The next steps will be using funding to purchase software that will help with tracking inventory, expiration dates, and product turnover and replenishment.

Robert Williams delivers salmon to tribal members during a March 2024 food distribution

Swinomish Behavioral Health: Helping Our Youth Make Healthy Media Choices

Media is everywhere and available 24/7, and with the arrival of the smartphone, technology is just part of life now. Social media, television, movies, apps of any kind, gaming – usage rates just continue to go up and up.

And our children are part of all! With so much of their time spent online and in front of screens, we hope this article sparks an interest in creating meaningful conversations about media with the young ones in your life.

How much is too much?

The average child between 8-12 years old spends 4-6 hours on their devices daily, and adolescents over 12 spend an average of 7-9 hours daily. This can have detrimental impacts. Factors like exposure to harmful content, feelings of isolation, and a lack of culturally relevant support combined with the trauma of COVID-19 recovery can exacerbate existing mental health issues such as anxiety and depression, and even lead to suicide among some.

While social media can also provide positive avenues for cultural connection, activism, and community building when used responsibly, experts suggest limiting screen time outside of school or work to less than two hours daily.

NEGATIVE IMPACTS

Exposure to harmful content: Youth frequently encounter negative stereotypes, misinformation, and racist comments on social media, which can significantly impact self-esteem and mental health.

Comparison to others: The curated online personas on social media can lead to feelings of inadequacy and social isolation, especially when comparing oneself to others who may not reflect the realities of Native life.

Increased risk of suicide: Studies show a correlation between high social media use and increased suicide rates among Native youth.

A disconnection from traditional culture: Excessive social media use can lead to decreased engagement in traditional cultural practices and community connections.

POSITIVE IMPACTS

Community building and connection: Social media platforms allow Native people to connect with other Indigenous communities across large geographic areas, sharing cultural knowledge and experiences.

Advocacy and activism: Social media can be used to raise awareness about important issues facing our communities, including land rights, treaty violations, and cultural preservation.

Cultural revitalization: Platforms can be used to share Indigenous art, stories, languages, and traditions, promoting cultural revitalization.

IMPORTANT CONSIDERATIONS

Interventions: When addressing social media addiction within some spaces, it’s crucial to develop culturally sensitive approaches that incorporate traditional healing practices and community support systems.

Digital literacy education: Educating youth about responsible social media use and how to navigate online spaces safely is essential.

Supporting content creators: Encouraging the development of positive and culturally relevant content on social media platforms can help counter harmful stereotypes.

TALK ABOUT SOCIAL MEDIA

Swinomish Behavioral Health suggests the following tips to create communication in your family regarding healthy media usage practices, which we can all benefit from!

To effectively talk to youth about social media, approach the conversation with empathy, open communication, and a focus on wellbeing. Encourage them to share their experiences, listen without judgment, and help them understand the potential positives and negatives of social media use.

Create a Safe Space for Open Communication

Be transparent about your own social media habits, and let them know they can come to you with any questions or concerns. Pay attention to what they are saying, show understanding, and validate their feelings. Encourage them to share their experiences, concerns, and perspectives about social media use.

Social Media’s Appeal and Risks

Let them teach you by asking them how they use social media, what they enjoy, and what concerns them. Discuss the positives aspects of potential positives and how it can be a tool to connect people, share information, and promote positive causes.

Also address the negatives including the risks of cyberbullying, misinformation, unrealistic comparisons, and the impact on mental health and sleep.

Make sure to highlight the importance of privacy and online safety. Talk about the permanence of online posts, the need to protect personal information, and the importance of being cautious about who they interact with online.

BE A ROLE MODEL

Model Responsible Use

Show your kids how you use social media responsibly, including limiting screen time and being mindful of online interactions.

Encourage healthy habits by helping them balance social media with other activities like spending time outdoors, engaging in hobbies, and socializing in person. Set boundaries by establishing clear rules about screen time, bedtime, and social media use during family time.

Addressing Concerns and Providing Support

If you have concerns about your child’s social media use, approach the situation calmly and listen to their perspective. You can offer further support by helping them identify and address negative online experiences, such as cyberbullying, and provide them with resources to cope with any emotional distress.

Reinforce that they can always come to you if they experience anything that makes them feel uncomfortable or unsafe.

Make it a Regular Conversation

Make social media a normal part of your family conversations and encourage the youth in your life to share their experiences and concerns. Use can even use everyday moments to start the discussion. For example, you can ask about a TikTok trends or go in depth about a news story they read online.

By approaching the conversation with empathy, open communication, and a focus on their wellbeing, you can help youth navigate the world of social media in a healthy and responsible way.

Swinomish Behavioral Health is committed to supporting healthy families. Stay tuned for information about the program’s week-long youth media literacy/digital storytelling project this summer, which will include conversations about what healthy media choices are. We hope this project serves as an antidote, as well as a catalyst, for more conversations about media.

If you are interested in having your youth (ages 13-17) join the digital storytelling project, email hguggenheim@ swinomish.nsn.us

THE MISSING AND MURDERED INDIGENOUS PEOPLE TASK FORCE

CAROLINE AMMONS, QYUUQS NEWS EDITOR

The Washington State Legislature established the Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and People (MMIWP) Task Force in 2021 to understand and address the systematic causes of violence against Indigenous people.

The 25-member task force, administered by the Washington State Attorney General’s Office (AGO), addresses data collection, jurisdiction, training, best practices, and proposes actionable recommendations that call on communities, law enforcement, government at all levels, resource and service providers, and other institutions to improve their response to violence against Indigenous people and address the root causes of the crisis. (MMIWP Interim Report, 2023)

The task force has an executive committee and the following subcommittees: MMIWP Families, Tribes, Data and Research, Criminal Justice and Public Safety, Community Services and Resources. Together they combine the institutional and cultural knowledge of Indigenous communities, tribal nations, and state agencies to center on the experiences of survivors and families and to approach the work in a way that is responsive and grounded in Indigenous values.

Violence against Indigenous women and within Indigenous communities continues to be underreported and misunderstood. Complex issues around jurisdiction and data collection have created obstacles to understanding the full extent of how many Indigenous women have gone missing, been murdered, or been the victim of other types of gender-based crime over generations.

Through its work, the task force identified several barriers that impact the response to violence against Indigenous people throughout the Pacific Northwest, including:

‣ Inter-jurisdictional issues creating gaps in communication between families and law enforcement;

‣ Cross-jurisdictional rules that limit tribal law enforcement access to valuable investigative tools to combat violence;

‣ Racial misclassification of Indigenous people in data;

‣ Limited access to service programs for families, who often do not know what services are available to them; and

‣ Limitations on what survivor service organizations can provide to MMIWP families.

The solutions to this crisis lie in the experiences, recommendations, and suggestions from impacted Indigenous community and family members. Task force members and Attorney General Office staff are committed to centering these voices and grounding the work in Indigenous knowledge, values, and practices.

In addition to regular public meetings, the task force utilizes a number of strategies, including family talking circles, public comment sessions, and subcommittee meetings, to ensure that the public, community members, and MMIWP families have outlets to tell stories, build community, provide expertise, and take an active part in the work.

MMIWP TASK FORCE TIMELINE

2024 - Attorney General Bob Ferguson’s budget request for $500,000 to fund genetic genealogy and DNA testing for the entire backlog of unidentified remains in Washington was approved by the Washington State Legislature.

“Timely DNA testing can bring a measure of closure and help solve more cold cases,” Ferguson said. “Families should never have to endure unnecessary delays when seeking answers about their missing loved ones. I am thankful to our partners in the Legislature — Rep. Lekanoff, Rep. Stearns and Sen. Kauffman and many others — who continue to fight to ensure the missing and murdered Indigenous people crisis gets the attention and resources it deserves.”

The budget provides the new resources to the Washington State Patrol, which will provide financial assistance to local jurisdictions for testing of all unidentified remains. Funds will be available for initial DNA testing. If DNA testing fails to provide an identification, funding will pay for forensic genetic genealogy.

Forensic genetic genealogy helps law enforcement solve cold cases by combining DNA testing with genealogical research, using publicly available ancestry data. Cost is the primary barrier for law enforcement agencies looking to use DNA and forensic genetic genealogy testing to identify remains. DNA testing of individual remains costs approximately $2,500 and forensic genetic genealogy costs approximately $8,000, though costs can vary.

The recommendation calling for funds to clear the backlog of unidentified remains stems from the experience of task force member Patricia Whitefoot, who waited 14 years for the partial remains of her sister, Daisy Mae Heath, to be tested and identified. Much of

that delay was due to a lack of funding. Ultimately, the Attorney General’s Office worked with the Yakima County Coroner to provide the necessary funding.

“I’m pleased the Washington State Attorney General’s Office heard the voices of families in our pursuit to know the status of unidentified remains,” Whitefoot said. “I was reminded of these remains whenever our family received an inquiry about unidentified remains, since my sister, Daisy Heath, had been missing over 30 years. Because of our sister, I found myself motivated and compelled to promote needed resolution about the remains with the task force. Our family wondered about the status of our sister for far too long.”

The budget request started as a recommendation with the Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and People Task Force. The task force’s work has resulted in several Attorney General Request bills enacted into law.

2023 - In part response to recommendations from the MMIWP Task Force, the Washington Legislature created and funded an MMIWP Cold Case Unit within the AGO.

The purpose of the team is to assist federal, municipal, county, and tribal law enforcement agencies in solving missing person and cold homicide cases involving persons of Indigenous ancestry who go missing and are murdered at a higher rate than other demographics. It is the first unit of its kind in the nation.

2022 - The Washington State MMIWP Task Force issued its first report in August, including 10 unanimously adopted recommendations to begin addressing gaps in services and response to violence against Indigenous people.

2021 - The Washington State Legislature established the Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and People (MMIWP) Task Force in 2021

The task force coordinates a statewide response to the urgent crisis of Indigenous people who go missing, are the victims of homicide, or experience other types of genderbased violence in urban and tribal communities. Building on the foundational work of tribes, activists, grassroots advocates, families, and survivors, the task force met quarterly and in bi-weekly subcommittee meetings to understand the scope of violence against Indigenous people and to identify how it can be addressed through systemic and institutional changes.

Sources:

atg.wa.gov/washington-state-missing-and-murderedindigenous-women-and-people-task-force

https://www.atg.wa.gov/news/news-releases/ag-ferguson-500k-will-fund-genetic-genealogy-testing-all-unidentified-remains

atg.wa.gov/mmiwp-cold-case-unit - :~:text=By participating in a march,and more to raise awareness.

atg.wa.gov/news/news-releases/missing-and-murdered-indigenous-women-and-people-task-force-issues-first-report

https://agportal-s3bucket.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws. com/uploadedfiles/2023%20MMIWP%20Interim%20 Report.pdf

https://agportal-s3bucket.s3.amazonaws.com/uploadedfiles/Another/News/Press_Releases/MMIWP%20 Interim%20Report%202022.pdf

Keeping Swinomish Safe... Together

Our community’s safety is something we all care about, and we know the best way to do it is by working together. That’s why our Swinomish Police Department is rolling out a new online tool where you can share photos or videos of anything that seems suspiciousanonymously and easily.

A couple important things to know:

‣ Your safety comes first. Never put yourself in danger to take a photo or video. If it doesn’t feel safe, don’t do it!

‣ This doesn’t replace calling 911. If something serious or dangerous is happening, call 911 immediately.

We’re stronger when we look out for one another, and this is one more way we can help keep our community safe for our families, elders, and future generations.

To use the new tool, scan the QR code or go to:

swinomishpdwa.evidence.com/axon/communityrequest/public/0330

Thank you for always standing up for our community!

DAY SERVICE May 26 | 10AM

Swinomish Cemetery

Lunch to follow at the B s & Gi ls Club

EARN YOUR DIPLOMA

From registration and materials to study skills and coaching, Swinomish HS+/GED program staﬀ will support your journey 100%!

Contact Sally Schroeder

CANNED SALMON MEALS

Try macaroni salad, fish mango tacos & skillet rice!

LORRAINE LOOMIS MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP

The Pacific Salmon Commission (PSC) is pleased to announce that it has established a scholarship in memory of Swinomish Tribal Member Lorraine Loomis.

Lorraine passed away in August 2021, ending a decadeslong career advocating for Indigenous fishing rights at their intersection with salmon conservation. She served on the PSC Fraser River Panel since its inception in 1985, with several terms as Panel Chair and Vice Chair.

Lorraine was also one of the first women to play an active role in fisheries policy and management, rising to prominence at the tribal, state, national, and international level.

Her achievements and consensus building led to her replacing the esteemed Billy Frank Jr. as chair of the Northwest Indian Fisheries Commission upon his passing, receiving the inaugural PSC Larry Rutter Award for Pacific Salmon Conservation, and other accolades. "The new PSC scholarship seeks to honor Lorraine’s legacy and her many contributions to the fisheries community, with a view to inspiring and enabling future leaders like her."

A scholarship of $5,000 will be awarded annually to a selected American or Canadian student enrolled in a post-secondary program in fisheries, or a related field, with preference given to female and Indigenous candidates.

https://www.psc.org/about-us/history-purpose/ lorraine-loomis-memorial-scholarship/

Introducing the Washington DSHS Tribal Outreach Specialist

My name is Dylan Sicklesteel and I am honored to be the new tribal outreach specialist for the Swinomish, Samish, and Upper Skagit tribes. I grew up in Skagit County and went to La Conner High School before going to college in Spokane. I am so grateful for my time in La Conner as I was able to learn more about and witness firsthand some of the Swinomish Tribe’s rich history, culture, and traditions from my friends, classmates, and teachers. I still have much to learn, but I am so excited to have this opportunity to help make DSHS services more accessible to Skagit area tribal communities.

ATTENTION: AFTER-HOURS

HOUSING & UTILITY EMERGENCIES

JIM GIBSON

FISHERIES DEPARTMENT

Jim Gibson died at the age of 79 on February 20, 2025. Over four decades, Jim worked tirelessly as a fisheries biologist to develop, implement, and support treaty fisheries.

After earning a B.S. from Western Washington University’s Huxley College of Environmental Studies in 1976, he began his professional career in 1977 as a scientific aide for the Washington Department of Fisheries (now Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife). In 1979, he joined the Skagit System Cooperative (now known as the Skagit River System Cooperative) as a Fisheries Biologist, marking the start of his tenure in fisheries comanagement.

Jim transitioned to a Shellfish Biologist position in 1995, where his leadership played a crucial role in advancing shellfisheries programs. In 2003, he became the Shellfish Coordinating Biologist for the Swinomish Indian Tribal Community, a role he held until his retirement in 2018.

Throughout his career, Jim led projects that shaped the future of fisheries management in Washington. In the late 1970s and early 1980s, he was involved in the pioneering Skagit River spring Chinook radio tagging studies. His work in the 1980s on a Skagit coho escapement study helped advance salmon tagging and beach seining methods, improving data collection and management efforts.

Jim was also instrumental in the early implementation of the Rafeedie Decision for the Swinomish Tribe, working closely with Lorraine Loomis to ensure these reaffirmed treaty rights were realized for the Swinomish

people. Jim worked to expand Swinomish Fisheries into a department that integrated science with policy and management decisions, ensuring sustainable practices for future generations and guided Swinomish through the development of multiple shellfisheries, including crab, shrimp, geoduck, sea cucumber, sea urchin, and intertidal clams.

As an example of his commitment to the Tribe, Jim even became dive-certified alongside Swinomish’s first commercial divers so he could better manage their fisheries. Jim’s unassuming demeanor, respect for others, kindness, and levelheaded approach to comanagement set an example for all who had the privilege to work alongside him.

The Swinomish community and colleagues were his second family. Jim developed many close relationships, watching children grow up to become fishers as well as managers. He always participated in tribal community functions, cooking mussels and clams at the Blessing of the Fleet and being a regular attendee at Super Bowl gatherings. He never hesitated to make his colleagues feel welcome, often stopping by their office or stopping in the hallway to inquire about how they and their families were doing.

He leaves behind so many people who will miss sharing stories and opinions over the joys and challenges of work, life, and being a Seattle Seahawks fan.

All photos taken of Jim Gibson are courtesy of Julie Barber

From the Archive

Remembering Jim Gibson

With the recent passing of Jim Gibson, the Swinomish Tribal Archive would like to honor his memory by sharing some of his creative photographs. As many of you may know, Jim dedicated over 39 years to serving the Swinomish people and was a cornerstone of the Fisheries Department. Over the years, he became a beloved member of our community and a friend to many.

We are grateful that Jim took the time to document so much of his work and experiences with us. His photos stand as a testament to his decades of service and also preserve invaluable memories for many of our fishers.

In his honor, we are proud to share selections from what is now known as the Jim Gibson Collection.

Norma Johnston, Robert Joe Sr., Father Pat Twohy, and Joe McCoy at the Blessing of the Fleet in 1991 Jim Gibson Collection, Swinomish Tribal Archive

Jim Gibson Photo Courtesy of Julie Barber

Donald

Jim

Brian Cladoosby holding his boat registration 1975

Jim

Kurt

1975

Jim

Gibson Collection, Swinomish Tribal Archive

Bassford holding his boat registration for the River Rat

Gibson Collection, Swinomish Tribal Archive

Clark and Gus Stone Jr Beach Seining No Date

Gibson Collection, Swinomish Tribal Archive