Oregon House Representatives Annessa Hartman and Tawna Sanchez successfully secured a last-minute change to a bill planning Oregon’s celebration of the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence. Now, the plans will include input from the nine federally recognized tribes in Oregon.
Posted inCulture
First Gathering of Native Weavers of Oregon Keeps Tradition Alive
At a conference on the Oregon Coast hosted by the Portland All Nations Canoe Family, traditional weavers of all ages and skill levels shared stories and knowledge, stitch by stitch.
Posted inJustice, Legislature
Experts Question Oregon Lawmakers’ Move to Recriminalize Drug Possession
If signed by Gov. Tina Kotek, the law is likely to be enforced unfairly, according to recent studies. And a provision requiring mandatory treatment instead of jail time will not apply on most Indigenous reservations in the state.
Posted inJustice
The 50th Anniversary of the Boldt Decision is a Celebration of Native Leadership
A landmark lawsuit reaffirmed treaty fishing rights after decades of intertribal activism, inspired by the civil rights movement. Fifty years later, we look back at how far we’ve come and today’s remnants of the Fish Wars.
Posted inJustice
Chinook Indian Nation Land Claim Settlement Awarded, Nation Could be Closer to Federal Recognition
The federal government awarded over half a million dollars to the Chinook Indian Nation to settle the nation’s long-running land claim. The nation believes the decision strengthens its nearly two-century fight for federal recognition and its campaign to secure a land base in its traditional territory.
Posted inCulture
‘Elevating Indigenous Voices in Oregon Is a Top Priority’
Annual McMinnville Short Film Festival brings filmmakers from around the world for a weekend of impactful visual storytelling.
Posted inArts, Culture, Events
Confederated Tribes of Umatilla Join With Pendleton City Leaders for Two Cultures, One Community Powwow
The celebration will take place in Pendleton Feb. 23, 24 and 25. All are welcome.
Posted inPeople
In Memoriam: Yakama leader Ted Strong
Remembering a beloved and influential former executive director of the Columbia River Inter-Tribal Fish Commission.
Posted inJustice
Native Orgs Call on Oregon Legislature to Advance Indigenous Community Priorities
Native American Youth and Family Center and Future Generations Collaborative are advocating for a legislative agenda that emphasizes housing, education and economic equity.
Posted inCulture
Warm Springs Hip-Hop Artist Blue Flamez Works to Bring Positive Message to a Wider Audience
Blue Flamez is the musical persona of Scott Kalama, an enrolled member of the Confederated Tribes of Warm Springs who works by day as a certified prevention specialist to mentor youth and raise awareness about the risks of drugs and alcohol. Kalama recently won an arts fellowship with a six-figure award to reach a wider audience.