By Micheal Rios, Tulalip News
The Tulalip Tribes celebrated a moment of continuity and fresh energy as three elected leaders were sworn into office on Saturday, March 4. The official swearing-in followed the results of the most recent General Council.
Taking their oath were Hazen Shopbell, Teri Gobin, and Malory Simpson; the top three vote-getters in the election. For Teri, this marks her fourth term on the Board, a reflection of three decades of dedication and steady leadership stemming from her previous time as TERO Director. Hazen begins his third term, bringing his extensive entrepreneurial experience and bold vision for new business to the community he serves.
The Saturday morning ceremony was particularly notable for Malory, who was elected to the Board in her first attempt at running. She earned the trust of the community after years of being on the front lines of local, grassroots events organizing with Aunties In Action and Together We’re Better. Walking her talk in public spaces and behind the scenes played a significant role in her ability to successfully claim a Board seat.
“My grandmother set a great example of what leadership is supposed to look like, and I’m so thankful she’s here to share in this moment,” said Malory with her grandma Dawn Simpson by her side. “I say this all the time, but I’d like to reiterate it now. You don’t have to be on the Board to be a leader in our community.
“There are tribal members who routinely step up and do the work that’s needed, regardless of if they are employed by the Tribe or not,” she continued. “I want to encourage everyone out there to continue stepping up and filling the gaps in service for our people because we deserve it, both as individual tribal members and as a Tribe. All the work I’ve done to this point is because I love my people. That’s why I chose to run when I did, and that’s why I’m here now. I’m honored to serve as a Board of Director and to continue serving our people in the best way that I can.”
Adding to the significance of the morning, Hazen Shopbell was selected to serve as Chairman of the Board. His Sioux family attended the swearing-in ceremony to honor him in their traditional way, connecting the day’s formal proceedings with a heartfelt, cross-cultural celebration.
“This moment is overwhelming, to say the least,” admitted Chairman Hazen after being honored with a ceremonial headdress and stunning star quilt that represented his Tulalip and Sioux roots. “It’s truly humbling to receive this level of trust from our community. Serving alongside Teri, whose experience as Chairwoman is unmatched, and welcoming Malory, whose fresh perspective will be appreciated, I feel confident about the direction we’re headed.”
The Board of Directors represents the highest level of authority in guiding the Tulalip Tribes, making decisions that impact everything from education and health services to economic development and cultural preservation. With a mix of seasoned leadership and new voices, this latest iteration of leadership intends to offer fresh ideas and a strong connection to Tulalip traditions.
Congratulations to Teri, Hazen, and Malory as they embark on their 3-year terms.