By Katie Manzanares

A new flag honoring the Native peoples of the Seattle region was raised outside City Hall on Friday, Oct. 9, ahead of Indigenous Peoples’ Day.

Muckleshoot Tribal Council Chairman Donny Stevenson joined Seattle Mayor Katie B. Wilson, U.S. Rep. Pramila Jayapal, Suquamish Councilmember Jay Mills, and community representatives for the ceremony. Lummi artist Louie Gong designed the flag, whose image has become a visual symbol of Indigenous Peoples’ Day in Seattle.

The flag-raising was a collaboration among the City of Seattle, the Indigenous Advisory Council, and the Seattle Department of Neighborhoods. Wilson said the flag recognizes Native Seattle’s past, present, and future, and pointed to the city’s ongoing work with Tribal governments and Native organizations.

“Speaking to help tell our story, in our own words ... is so important and such an honor,” said Stevenson.  

Indigenous Peoples’ Day was observed Monday, Oct. 12.