Washington DC — Building and maintaining relationships with state and federal leaders is central to getting things done for Tribal government.
And it is not enough just to focus on our friends at the state, local, and federal levels in the State of Washington; we must expand our relationships beyond its borders and the borders of our ceded territory.
Secretary Jessica Garcia-Jones did just that this summer when she traveled to meet with several important political figures including House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries (NY) and Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear (KY), whose name has been mentioned as a potential presidential candidate in 2028.
The meetings gave her the opportunity to spread knowledge about the Muckleshoot Tribe and its Treaty rights while building meaningful relationships for the Tribe in the future. This sort of active diplomacy is at the core of Tribal sovereignty and it is something that every Tribal Councilmember does on a daily basis.
Muckleshoot Tribal Council Secretary Jessica Garcia-Jones and Councilmember Louie Ungaro traveled to San Diego, California, Aug.7-8 to represent the Tribe at the DCCC Leader’s Circle Weekend and Issues Conference at Torrey Pines.
The Muckleshoot Indian Tribe welcomed dancers, singers, families and visitors from across Indian Country for its annual Sobriety Powwow, held July 24 through 26 at the Muckleshoot Powwow Grounds in Auburn.
Muckleshoot Youth and teens had the opportunity to learn from Seattle Seahawks cheerleaders during a special dance clinic Monday, Aug. 3, at the Muckleshoot Community Center.
The Muckleshoot Indian Tribe welcomed health and wellness professionals from across Indian Country Aug. 4 and 5 for Native Fitness 20, marking the first time the long-running training was hosted at a Tribal entity.
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
