120 canoes and well over 10,000 people came to our territory as we hosted this year’s Paddle to Muckleshoot. Countless stories were shared, hundreds of people were honored, and the beautiful ancient cultures of the Salish Sea and beyond were celebrated by all, from the eldest elders to the tiniest children. It was a week that will remain in the memories of those who witnessed it for the rest of their lives.
They say a picture is worth a thousand words, so a thousand pictures should be worth a million words, and many, many thousands were taken. These pages will feature both the work of outstanding professional photographers as well as tribal members who captured precious moments on their cellphones. One Muckleshoot mom posted that her little one always wants to stop and go into the Community Center whenever they drive by, thinking the protocols will still be going on. It was indeed a week to remember, a week to be proud. Enjoy the photos.
“We are unbelievably honored you have accepted our invitation and you have traveled such a long distance to deliver your proud people amongst us. We look forward and are eager to share our home and all it has to offer with you; exchanging our cultures… we will share our drums, our songs, our dances.
“We will celebrate together during this joyous time and we will provide the best of our shelter, our food and our drink to you as one of our own… welcome our friends and relations; you have our utmost permission to come ashore!”
– Tribal Council Vice Chairman, Donny Stevenson
On June 26-28, the Muckleshoot community gathered once again for the annual Veterans Powwow, a celebration dedicated to honoring Native Veterans and their families.
Muckleshoot Tribal College proudly hosted its 6th Annual Effective Teaching Institute from June 23–25, bringing together educators, Tribal leaders, students, community members, and partners.
The Muckleshoot Indian Tribe welcomed members and staff aboard the Hiyu on July 6 for Family Day, bringing the community together for an evening of soccer, games and family-friendly activities on Lake Union.
Tribal members David D'Ambrosio, Denise Opsahl and Tricia Bagley visited the Native American memorial in Middleton, County Cork, Ireland in July, along with their families.
The Muckleshoot Messenger is a monthly Tribal publication. Tribal community members and Tribal employees are welcome to submit items to the newspaper such as announcements, birth news, birthday shoutouts, community highlights, and more. We want to hear from you!
Please direct Media Inquiries to Muckleshoot Intergovernmental Affairs.
Official Government Website for the Muckleshoot Indian Tribe
© Muckleshoot Indian Tribe 2026
