The Office of Tribal Relations (OTR) recently had a great week at the Affiliated Tribes of Northwest Indians (ATNI) annual convention, located on the homelands of the Suquamish Tribe. OTR participated in many productive conversations including government-to-government relations, higher education, cultural and natural resources, and more.
ATNI is an Inter-Tribal nonprofit organization that represents and advocates for the 57-member Tribal governments and their elected leaders, to whom the organization provides a forum for sharing information, developing consensus, and pursuing self-determination. Founded in 1953, the organization is dedicated to promoting tribal sovereignty and self-determination. ATNI’s work also directly serves individual tribal citizens and communities by supporting economic development, cultural preservation, and the advancement of their rights and well-being.
On the opening day of the convention (Indigenous Peoples Day), President Jones had the opportunity to speak directly to Northwest Tribal leaders and ATNI members. As the new UW President, he pledged to continue the UW’s strong commitment to collaboration with Washington Tribes and support for Indigenous students, faculty and staff. He shared that he is eager to get to know the Northwest’s Tribal leadership and to continue the UW’s commitment to expanding learning and opportunities for our Native students.
In closing, he shared this message to the community, “Developing reciprocal and mutual relationships with Native Nations is integral to our responsibility as an institution.” He was hopeful for the future as we prioritize Tribal engagement based on mutual respect, open communication, collaboration, and listening.
The UW is grateful to ATNI and the Suquamish Tribe for welcoming President Jones and for their warm hospitality.