
Elders from the Muckleshoot Indian Tribe and their loved ones gathered together on Jan 16 at the Elders complex to celebrate the New Year. The gathering was a joyful and welcoming community celebration. The Elders complex was filled to capacity as families came together after the holidays to reconnect, laugh, and welcome a new year together.
The celebration centered our Elders and the importance of community, beginning with prayer and continuing through moments of shared laughter and connection. Guests enjoyed a photo booth, prizes, and time spent visiting and creating memories.
A shared meal brought everyone together, featuring a generous dinner that included crab, clams, salmon, and additional dishes prepared for all to enjoy. The lunch was filled with joy, conversation, and appreciation for our elders, whose presence and guidance continue to ground and strengthen our community. The New Year gathering served as a meaningful welcome back after the holidays and a reminder of the importance of honoring our Elders and coming together.

Julia Keefe (Nez Perce) is an internationally acclaimed Native American jazz vocalist, bandleader, actor, and educator. Her story serves as a message to young girls: Dream big, work hard, do it all with love in your heart.

Muckleshoot Tribal Council Treasurer, John Daniels Jr., remarks on the greatest anniversary for Federally Recognized Tribes in Washington State: the historic Boldt Decision of February 12, 1974.

The Boldt decision of 1974 was the result of sacrifices made by Native fishers and their families who were jailed and beaten while defending their rights.

The UW participated in its first Tribal Canoe Journey, with students, faculty, staff, and alums working together as a family — the Shell House Canoe Family, č̓away̓altxʷ ʔiišəd — to make it all happen.
The Muckleshoot Messenger is a Tribal publication created by the Muckleshoot Office of Media Services. Tribal community members and Tribal employees are welcome to submit items to the newspaper such as news, calendar items, photos, poems, and artwork.