On Aug. 3, the Muckleshoot Indian Tribe was honored to welcome representatives from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) and the Northwest Portland Area Indian Health Board to our homelands.
Through meaningful government-to-government dialogue, we shared how Muckleshoot continues to invest in the health, well-being, infrastructure, and future of our Tribal community while strengthening partnerships that support Tribal sovereignty and growth. During the visit, the HHS delegation toured several key Muckleshoot facilities, including the Muckleshoot Health & Wellness Center, where they learned about the Tribe's comprehensive health services, such as medical care, dental and optical services, pharmacy operations, fitness facilities, and aquatic programs.
The group also visited the Behavioral Health Program building and received an overview of the services and resources available to community members. During their visit to the Behavioral Health Program, the delegation was welcomed with traditional wellness items including nettle tea, sage with a shell, and a medicinal sleep aid. Staff explained the purpose of each item and demonstrated how they are traditionally used.
We are grateful for the opportunity to work together in service to our people. Thank you, Assistant Secretary, Gustav Chiarello, for your time, leadership, and commitment to strengthening Tribal-federal partnerships.
The visiting HHS Delegation included:
Ten dedicated students have successfully completed the inaugural term of a newly Entrepreneurship Certificate program at the Muckleshoot Tribal College, marking a significant step toward Tribal career advancement and local entrepreneurship.
Chairman Jaison Elkins, Vice Chair John Daniels Jr., and Council Member Ungaro met in Washington, D.C., with the Office of the Assistant Secretary of Indian Affairs to advocate on behalf of the Muckleshoot Indian Tribe.
Reelected Muckleshoot Tribal Council members Virginia Cross, Jessica Garcia-Jones, and newly elected Eileen Richardson were sworn in April 7, 2026. We are grateful to them for their service to our community!
The annual Muckleshoot Canoe Awakening marks the beginning of the canoe season with blessings, songs, and community gathering. The ceremony honors the Tribe’s relationship with the water and the cultural traditions that guide each journey.
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
