In Pursuit of a Ph.D. Tessa Campbell is indigenizing space on the UW campus

By Micheal Rios, Tulalip News

At the cross-section of academia and culturally inclusive education, prevailing winds of change are sweeping though newly constructed learning centers and century’s old college campuses across the nation. Generated by Native American culture bearers focused on increasing representation and breaking down barriers by actively seeking to become mentors, school administrators and college professors. These individuals are powered by a fearless determination seven generations in the making. 

The Tulalip Tribes has produced several of these illustrious education change makers; from Dr. Stephanie Fryberg and Dr. Lena Hammons to Early Learning Academy director Sheryl Fryberg and Quil Ceda Elementary vice principal Chelsea Craig. Soon, Tessa Campbell will join the ranks of those marvelous matriarchs. Proving yet again that educational pursuits, even at the highest of levels, aren’t just realistic dreams, but are attainable goals for our Tulalip people.  

“The main reason I am in the Ph.D. program is because the University of Washington Information School supports Indigenous Knowledge and Indigenous Systems of Knowledge research,” explained Tessa. “There are currently three Native faculty and three Native Ph.D. students.  I am pursuing my doctorate degree so I can eventually teach. I also want to be a role model for not only younger generations but others as well. It is important to see Native people in academia. Having representation of Native faculty and students is so important to see that if other Native people can survive and thrive in these programs then so can they!

“Personally, for me, education has been empowering,” she added. “It hasn’t been an easy journey though. My Ph.D. experience is so drastically different than my undergraduate experience. When I was an undergraduate student 20 years ago, there was a significant lack of Native American representation at the University of Washington. During my undergraduate years, I never saw Native American students, faculty or staff. I even took an American Indian Studies class, and it was taught by a non-Native professor. During those years, I felt unsafe and unsupported, so I remained invisible and silent.”

  The now 47-year-old Tessa is anything but invisible and silent. With an extensive wardrobe of vibrant colors and bold Native designs that is often accessorized with stunning beaded earrings or cedar woven jewelry, she proclaims herself a proud Tulalip and Tlingit culture bearer in any space she occupies. A classroom in UW’s Moore Hall is one such space. That’s where her articulate voice speaks truth to power every Tuesday and Thursday afternoon as she seeks to indigenize education.

Only months away from earning her doctorate degree from the University of Washington, Tessa is working towards completing her Ph.D. program by teaching an exclusive course within UW’s school of Informatics.  INFO 353 Indigenous Ways of Knowing in the Digital World is the course title.

In her pursuit to become Dr. Campbell, Tessa is indigenizing education not only by recruiting and supporting Native American educators but also integrating Native perspectives, histories, and teaching methods into her academic curriculum.

“The curriculum was originally created and developed by Dr. Sandra Littletree (Navajo/Easter Shoshone), which I have kept the foundation but have integrated material about the Tulalip Tribes into,” explained Tessa after allowing SeeYahtSub staff to attend one of her class sessions. “I asked and was granted permission from our Tulalip Board of Directors to teach about Tulalip history and culture this quarter. I believe that all tribes should have control of their knowledge and information and know where it is being disseminated.

“It’s been great having guest speakers from Tulalip, such as Aaron Jones, Ty Juvinel and Dave Sienko, come to UW this quarter and speak to the students,” she continued. “The main takeaways I want students to learn is that all tribes are not a monolith. They are so unique and diverse in their languages, cultures and histories. Since most students in the class have no previous exposure to Native American history, I want them to learn about Treaty Rights and tribal sovereignty.”

That vast majority of her 30 students are international or 1st generation American. Descending from countries like China, Thailand, India, Mexico, Armenia, Indonesia and the Philippines, Tessa’s class is one of the most diverse on the entire Seattle campus. Add-in the meticulously curated course content, various guest speakers, and the unique individual teaching and that’s a formula resulting in cross-cultural learning at its finest. 

UW student Joanna Pena-Rodriguez said she was excited to learn from a fellow Indigenous person, especially one that is an enrolled Tulalip Tribes member. “I want to learn more about how Indigenous people have connections to the land and use storytelling as a way to preserve traditional knowledge for future generations,” shared the UW 4th year whose parents are both from Jalisco, Mexico. “I’m also interested in learning about building community and tying these concepts back into my own Mexican roots and traditions.”

The movement to indigenize education reflects a broader societal shift towards inclusivity and respect for diversity. As more Native Americans enter the field of education, they are redefining what it means to teach and learn in America. This effort not only empowers Native communities but enriches the educational landscape for all, creating opportunities for students to engage with the histories and cultures that shape our world.

All those Native educators working tirelessly to indigenize these historically marginalized spaces are actively dismantling colonial narratives while promoting tribal sovereignty and self-governance. For Tessa, the macro is just as important as the micro.

“Academia and education have been harmful and traumatic spaces for Native people, so creating space for ourselves and sharing our ideas and knowledge with others helps us feel stronger,” concluded Tessa. “These actions help us feel safer, building community, mentoring, uplifting and supporting each other. Any educational pursuit is empowering whether it is a training certificate program, apprenticeship program, associate’s degree, bachelor’s or whatever. We can all integrate these programs and indigenize them and bring that knowledge back to Tulalip to build a stronger and healthier community.”

What a breath of fresh air those prevailing winds of change are.

Building pathways: Honoring Aliana Diaz’s trade advocacy

 
By Wade Sheldon, Tulalip News

On Saturday, November 2, Washington’s Women of the Trades held their Sweet 16 annual Dream Big Dinner, celebrating men and women who excel in their careers or contribute to the advancement of women in the trades. The organization aims to promote economic equity and self-sufficiency for women by providing access to high-wage, high-skilled careers in fields like construction, manufacturing, and transportation. Among those honored this year was Aliana Diaz, a member of the Tulalip Tribes, who received the Union Activist of the Year award for her commitment to opening doors for Indigenous communities within these essential fields.


Aliana, now a third-year apprentice with Elevator Construction Local 19, is passionate about creating pathways for Indigenous individuals to build rewarding trade careers. Her journey into the field required hard work, resilience, and a focus on building a versatile skillset that would make her valuable on any job site. In her previous role in guest services at the Tulalip Casino, Aliana developed essential skills in managing diverse interactions. “Going through the different trainings the casino offered helped me set boundaries and speak up for myself when I entered a more male-dominated field,” Aliana shared.


Determined to break into the construction industry, Aliana sought guidance from professionals who emphasized the importance of specialized skills and certifications. Inspired by their advice, she joined the Laborers International Union of North America (LIUNA), where she quickly gained experience and worked her way up. 

Through LIUNA, she earned certifications in OSHA 30, flagging, and welding, and even obtained her Commercial Driver’s License to enhance her value on the job. Reflecting on the importance of these accomplishments, Aliana said, “I wanted to make sure I had the skills and certifications to prove my value so no one could question my ability to contribute on any site.” These credentials helped her stand out as she transitioned to the Elevator Union.


Her commitment to community advocacy ultimately led Aliana to join her union’s outreach program, where she quickly took on the role of treasurer. Aliana engages with Indigenous communities in this leadership position, sharing information and resources about trade career opportunities. Her outreach work includes actively visiting various tribes, as well as partnering with organizations like the Chief Seattle Club, Native Action Network, and United Indians of All Tribes. 

She also participates in TERO (Tribal Employment Rights Ordinance) meetings, which focus on ensuring employment opportunities for Native people. Through these connections, Aliana aims to make valuable information about trade careers more accessible to Indigenous communities, especially those who might not otherwise have the resources or guidance to enter these fields.
With only about 25 women out of a thousand workers in the Elevator Union, Aliana is grateful for the supportive “sisterhood” of women who have paved the way in this challenging field. “The women before me showed that there’s space for us here, and they’ve given me the strength to keep pushing forward,” she shared. 

Their example, combined with Aliana’s commitment to her craft and community, has fueled her success and earned her the Union Activist of the Year award. Her proactive approach to reaching out to Indigenous communities and advocating for pathways into the trades played a significant role in her recognition. 

She hopes to inspire others to find fulfilling, sustainable trade careers, showing that these fields offer more than just a job—they provide a pathway to economic stability, leadership, and community impact.
For those interested in exploring a career in the elevator industry, programs like the National Elevator Industry Education Program (NEIEP) provide the foundational education needed to succeed in this specialized trade. For more information, visit neiep.org. 

Kristy Marie Bill-Solomon

1968 – 2024

Kristy Marie Bill-Solomon (Buffy), 55, of Tulalip Washington and Lummi nation Passed away October 31, 2024. She was born to Joe Bill sr and Geraldine Bill on December 24, 1968 in Bellingham Washington, as a child she grew up in Lummi and you would always find her not to far from her father, she was a daddy’s girl all the way if she wasn’t with her dad you would find her with her siblings playing and learning our way of life, then later on moved to Tulalip, got a job at the old bingo hall as a floor worker and then she would become a loving wife, a caring mother and a great teacher. She had a great sense of humor but was also so kind to everyone she knew. Her family was very important to her and she always had an open door policy for everyone. She loved traveling to smokehouse and playing sla-Hal games where she would meet her friends and family plus make new friends and make great memories, she took great pride in her work, she would spend her days taking care of her children, supporting her husband and her family, she was always willing to teach her children, nieces and nephews how to cook. In her spare time she would watch movies with her children, or keep busy by making various of items. She is survived by her auntie-Loretta Tom. Her sister-Inez Bill. Her children- Daniel Bill, Benjamin Solomon lll, Marsha Tom, Lauralee Tom, Sarah Tom. Her grandchildren- Trey Solomon, Kaiden Tom, Octavia Tom, Charles Tom and another on the way. She is proceeded in death by her husband- Phillip Solomon. Her parents- Geraldine Bill, Joe Bill Sr. Grandparents- Isadore, Laura Tom. Brothers- Joe Bill, Brian Bill; Sisters- Donna Houle, Kathleen Bill, Miriam Jo Bill and Jolene Bill.

An evening service will be held Tuesday, Nov. 5, 2024 at 6 PM at the Tulalip Gathering Hall. A celebration of her life will be held Wednesday, Nov. 6, 2024 at the Tulalip Gathering Hall at 10:00 AM with burial to follow at Mission Beach Cemetery.

DV is not our tradition

Tulalip Legacy of Healing rallies support for DV survivors at 2nd annual Coastal Jam and Dinner

By Kalvin Valdillez, Tulalip News

“I remember gasping for air, feeling his grip tighten behind me. When he finally let me go, I could see the blank expression on his face. Once I finally caught my breath, he walked away. I called the police, which led me to the Legacy of Healing. Their support has been a lifeline for me.”

Tears were visibly streaming down faces while domestic violence (DV) survivor, Andres Thornock, opened up about their experience in a three-year intimate partner DV relationship. By sharing their story, Andres wanted to reassure others that they are not alone, and that help is available at the Tulalip Legacy of Healing. 

Andres continued, “Throughout our time together, I faced verbal abuse, intimidation, threats, and ultimately physical harm. My now ex-fiancé struggled with alcoholism and bipolar schizoaffective disorder. His emotions would swing wildly – one moment he’d be shouting, the next he’d be in tears. It felt like a relentless rollercoaster. Eventually, I couldn’t sleep at night; I’d wait until he left for work in the morning just to find some rest. He wouldn’t let me work or pursue anything meaningful, often sabotaging my attempts. Living in a constant state of hyper-vigilance for so long made me believe that anxiety and fear were my new normal. I also fell into a deep depression, isolated from everyone I loved. I felt profoundly alone for far too long. This was my reality for three exhausting years.”

Although Andres was only one of two to share their terrifying and heart wrenching truth on the night of October 25, there were scores of people listening who could relate. They say there’s strength in numbers, and that strength could be felt as over 150 people attended the second annual DV Awareness Month Coastal Jam and Dinner. An impressive turnout considering there were several other community gatherings occurring at the same time. That was important for survivors to see that support, feel that love, hear those stories of resiliency, and help raise awareness about DV, something that happens far too often in Native America.

The yearly coastal jam and dinner is organized by the Legacy of Healing, a program that is designed to support local victims and survivors of DV in several capacities. Whether it’s educating the community about DV, providing resources to survivors, standing in your corner throughout the court process, or even designing a safety plan with you for when you’re ready to leave an abusive relationship, the Legacy of Healing is available 24/7 to help in any way that they can. The program has a strict confidentiality policy and does not pass judgement on anybody who needs to utilize their services. So, if you need information for a friend, family member, or yourself, your concerns and conversations shared will remain between you and the advocacy team.

“You don’t need to live with violence in your home,” urged Marisa Chavez, the Legacy of Healing’s Lead Advocate. “The Legacy of Healing is here for you to utilize for help. Once you speak to an advocate, you will be provided with information to learn the next steps on your healing journey to living a DV free life. It may be tedious, but you will find that you have the inner strength and support to make that happen. You don’t need to walk this journey alone to healing. We are here for you.”

For the better half of the past decade, the Legacy of Healing has participated in a nationwide initiative known as DV Awareness Month. Every October, the program dedicates all of their efforts to educating the community about what DV is and what it looks like, so survivors can identify those red flags and recognize when they are in a dangerous relationship. And through this work, they are able to reach more people and provide support and resources to those in need of their services. During DV Awareness Month, the Legacy of Healing team also partners with the Tulalip Foundation and holds a raffle throughout October, in which all proceeds go directly to helping survivors of DV. 

“A lot of times victims experience DV outside of public view and it happens in secret in their own homes,” explained Legacy of Healing Coordinator, Kaley Wickham. “October is a time for us to raise awareness for DV. Most, if not all, of the survivors we work with have also witnessed DV when they were children, or they know other family members or friends who have also experienced it. It’s a very normalized part of their life and yet people aren’t able to recognize it or talk about it.”  

In years past, the Legacy of Healing put on a number of trainings, activities, and movie screenings during the awareness month to bring attention to DV occurring at Tulalip and on reservations across the country. Last year, however, the program pivoted to one culturally centered gathering, which was a huge success. As Natives, we know that there is healing in our traditions. Drum and dance are our tradition. Community and cultural gatherings are our tradition. The ancestral language and songs are our tradition. Sharing story and meals together are our tradition. Wrapping each other with love and healing through the culture is our tradition. The Legacy of Healing took each of those aspects of the culture and enveloped it into one night of awareness and healing – the coastal jam and dinner. 

Fittingly, the tagline of this year’s gathering was ‘DV is not our tradition’. Unfortunately, in today’s society, more than four in five Native American men and women have experienced some form of violence in their lifetime – more than 3 million people according to the National Institute of Justice. Through that study, the NIJ also reported that tribal communities experience DV at higher rates than any other race or ethnicity throughout the U.S. 

On the night of the coastal jam and dinner, Executive Director of the Tulalip Family Advocacy Division, Jade Carela, elaborated on the statistics. “Tonight, I stand before you not only as an advocate of this work, but also a daughter of our community, which has faced immeasurable pain and loss. This issue touches each of us personally. We have DV in our community happen every day. The statistics we discuss are not just numbers; they represent our family members – they are our sisters, brothers, our mothers, fathers, our daughters, sons, our grandmothers, and grandfathers. Each name, each survivor, is a vital thread in the fabric of our community. These aren’t abstract victims; they are us.”

Following the testimonials, bravely shared by Andres and former Tulalip Board of Director Pat Contraro, the dinner concluded with a moment of silence and a prayer song by Antone George (Lummi) and the Westshore Canoe Family. With their swag bags in-hand and donning their new ‘DV is not our tradition’ event t-shirts, the crowd migrated from the Teen Center to the Greg Williams Court for the coastal jam. 

As the survivors and their families filed into the bleachers on either side of the court, the healing work began to take place along the sidelines. Throughout the night, three drum groups shared the floor. Their booming voices and steady drumbeats in dedication to all the DV survivors, both inside of the gym and across the reservation. And also, in memory of those who are no longer with us due to DV. Equally as important, dozens of dancers spread that good Indigenous medicine as they occupied the dancefloor for nearly the entire three-hour jam. Many survivors immersed themselves into the songs and dances, experiencing that traditional work first-hand and incorporating their ancestral ways into their healing journey. 

“Why does this matter?” asked Jade, “Because the fabric of our community is integral to the entire tapestry of society. The violence that affects us reflects deeper systemic issues that we have faced for generations. Standing up for the rights and safety of Indigenous people strengthens our collective human dignity. Tonight is not just for reflection, but for collective awareness. We must arm ourselves with knowledge and the tools to dismantle the cycle of violence against our community. Violence is against our traditions, our values, and our culture. Together, let’s turn our shared trauma into our collective strength. Stand united, as our ancestors did, and ensure our community does not merely survive but flourishes.”

If you or anybody you know is experiencing an abusive relationship, please do not hesitate to call the Legacy of Healing at (360) 716-4100 for assistance. And if you are in a crisis or an emergency situation, the Legacy of Healing provided a list of three additional hotline numbers that you can utilize during your time of need: 

  • The National Domestic Violence Hotline 1-800-799-SAFE (7233)
  • Strong Hearts Native Helpline: 1-844-762-8483
  • Domestic Violence Services of Snohomish County 425-25-ABUSE (22873)

Reflecting on another successful coastal jam and dinner, Jade expressed, “Let us honor the memory of those we’ve lost and those who are still experiencing DV by committing to an unwavering dedication to end violence in our communities. Thank you for standing with us – for our people, for our future. I am grateful that so many of our community members came to support the cause. I’m also thankful for my staff and their dedication to our community. We owe it our ancestors, our current families, and the many generations yet to come to fight for a community where every one of us is safe, respected, and cherished.”

The Pumpkin Extravaganza!

By Kalvin Valdillez, Tulalip News

When thinking of Halloween time, one’s mind typically conjures up ideas that come straight from the cauldron. We’re talking creepy creatures, supernatural spirits, haunted houses, macabre movies, and vile villains. But the Betty J. Taylor Early Learning Academy (TELA) did something quite magical. They took the scary completely out of the holiday with their annual Pumpkin Extravaganza. And when their students, ages birth to five, put on their costumes for the event, they were so cute you could die. 

“The Pumpkin Extravaganza is TELA’s annual Halloween event that we put on for our students and families to spread some spooktacular fun,” said Absyde Dacoscos, TELA’s Family Engagement Coordinator. “Our staff puts together fun booths that consist of games and activities for students to do such as cookie decorating, a spooky hallway with glowsticks, and yard games like ax throwing, mini golfing, and shooting baskets at basketball hoops. We even had a face painting and tattoo station!”

Last year, the Pumpkin Extravaganza was held inside the corridors of the academy due to an excessive amount of rain. The 2024 holiday event made its return outdoors on the afternoon of October 25, as the weather was just a typical overcast day in the northwest. TELA’s teachers and staffers setup their activity stations along the school’s drop-off zone, transforming their parking lot into a mini-Halloween-themed carnival.  

Both the Tulalip Police Department and the Tulalip Bay Fire Department took part in the extravaganza, engaging with the kiddos by distributing candy or playing alongside the students at the game booths. The event’s main attraction is, of course, the pumpkin patch and decorating station. The amount of joy the kids displayed when choosing their orange gourds, and then rushing to customize them with silly face stickers, was as wholesome and heartwarming as it gets. 

Absyde shared, “I personally love seeing the kids light up. It’s rewarding to see all of them working together, to play and engage with one another. The event is fun because it gives the staff the opportunity to connect with the students and the families outside of the classroom. We get to all dress up, be silly, dance, and enjoy each other’s company.”

For many of TELA’s students and families, the Pumpkin Extravaganza served as a kick-off to the Halloween festivities around the reservation. If you look closely, you may spot some familiar and adorable faces amongst those in attendance of the Tribe’s community Halloween party and Together We’re Better’s annual Trunk or Treat event, which were all held during the same weekend.

After the kiddos were treated to another entertaining Pumpkin Extravaganza, Absyde reflected on the significance of hosting holiday-focused gatherings for their students. She said, “It’s important for TELA to host these events because it creates memories and moments of bonding for our families and students. And it also helps create positive school experiences for them as well.”

The next event that TELA has planned is their annual Family Feast which is tentatively set for November 21. For additional details, please contact the academy at (360) 716-4250. 

Past vs Present

By Micheal Rios, Tulalip News

Heritage High School hosted the latest rendition of its volleyball alumni game on the evening of October 29. The game brought together past and present players and coaches in a spirited atmosphere designed to celebrate the legacy of the school’s Lady Hawks program. With every spike, serve, and rally, the gym pulsed with energy as alumni relived their competitive days while reminding the community they may be the old heads, but they ain’t washed.

The nearly two-hour event was more than just a game; it was a fun, laugh-filled reunion for Lady Hawk alumni spanning 12 years worth of graduating classes. Team Alumni consisted of Krislyn Parks, Nina Fryberg, Cassandra Jimicum, Santana Shopbell, Martie McLean-Fryberg, Katia Brown, Deandra Grant, and Anndraceia Sicade. As they mingled with each other and current players pregame, friendships were rekindled and new bonds were made.

“It’s incredible to see how many former players still have that strong connection to their time as Lady Hawks. I’m so excited for them to get this time on the court again,” said Tina Brown while sitting front row, courtside as she did for over a decade. She served as Heritage High School volleyball coach from 2006 to 2018. “I’m super proud of them because a lot of them are moms now. They are showing their kids and their community they still know how to play, work hard and, most of all, have fun.”

Beyond the fun and social aspect, the alumni game offered memorable experiences for current players. For these young athletes, interacting with alumni who once wore the same jerseys adds a personal touch to their time as Heritage athletes. 

The event also provides an opportunity for fundraising, with a variety of sports attire from past Lady Hawk seasons sold to support the volleyball program’s fund needed to purchase new jerseys and equipment. Several alumni were thrilled to rummage through past jerseys in search of ones they once wore and contribute to the program that helped shape their high school years.

The actual on-court game, while lighthearted, saw competitive play from both alumni and current players. The alumni team, with players ranging in age and experience, demonstrated resilience, proving that their passion for volleyball had not waned over the years. The spry and agile 2024 Lady Hawks took the opening set 25-16. As many adults know, the first set is more a warm up to get them old bones and achy joints moving again. Once the alum heated up, their competitive fire burned bright.

Team Alumni dominated the second set 25-14 and set the tone that they were here to win, too. The 3rd set was dead even as the score was tied 5-5, 10-10, and 15-15. In the clutch, it was the old heads who pulled away and won 25-18. That same formula played out in the decisive 4th set. The score was again tied up repeatedly 8-8, 15-15 and even 20-20. It seemed all too fitting that in the end it was current Heritage assistant coach Nina Fryberg who served Team Alumni to the 25-22 win. Game. Set. Match.

“I felt this weird nostalgic feeling wash over me when I first walked through the gym doors because I haven’t been here in so long,” admitted 2021 alum Martie post-game. “It was definitely weird and cool to look across the net at the current Lady Hawks who are the younger versions of ourselves. Throughout the match, I’m watching them and listening to them and just being reminded of all these high school memories and former Lady Hawk teammates. Even though my graduation wasn’t the long ago, it’s funny how quick I forgot some of those moments that made playing so worthwhile. I’m so grateful to be able to play in this alumni game and am already looking forward to next year.”

“The last time I played as a Lady Hawk I was a high school senior and one of the oldest on the team, but now I’m like a fresh alum and one of the youngest on the team. That perspective helped calm the nerves and relax me so I could just go out there and play and pump up my teammates,” added fellow 2021 alum Krislyn. “I’m really hoping to see more alumni games back because they really do so much good here in our community. 

“Whether its basketball or volleyball, having official alumni games or even just open gym style where former players can come and reconnect with the game and the current players helps build community,” she added. “It’s so important that our high school kids feel supported. We all have such busy lives, but it was important for us to make the time and actually prioritize this next generation just like how we were supported.” 

As the evening concluded, players past and present left Francy J. Sheldon gymnasium with more memories and hopefully newly formed connections that will last well beyond that final match point.

A Season of Healing concludes, shifting how we see Native Americans

Theresa Sheldon, Matika Wilbur and Lilly Jefferson.

By Wade Sheldon, Tulalip News.  

As Tulalip’s Season of Healing comes to a close, it’s time to reflect on the profound teachings and experiences shared among tribal members over the past two months. This period included gatherings over shared meals, giveaways, craft days, mind and spirit work sessions, and presentations from diverse guest speakers—each offering unique insights into healing, resilience, and community. From trauma therapy to traditional foods and spiritual empowerment, each aspect of this season brought a fresh perspective on Indigenous identity, unity, and wellness.

The Season of Healing featured key speakers such as Serene Thin Elk from South Dakota, who shared her expertise in trauma therapy, and Sheldon Smith from the Navajo Nation, who discussed spiritual empowerment. Educator Linzie Crofoot (Tlingit) and Tulalip Native Program member Martin Napeahi also guided the community in conversations about nutrition. Throughout the season, members observed and celebrated Indigenous Peoples Day and Orange Shirt Day with a coastal jam, honoring heritage and the importance of self-respect.

On October 25, artist and advocate Matika Wilbur delivered an inspiring, TED-talk-style event at the Tulalip Gathering Hall. Wilbur shared her journey to understand what it truly means to be Indigenous, discussing how she left behind the familiar to embrace the unknown in her search for new perspectives on Native American life. Wilbur’s insights provided a powerful close to the Season of Healing, encouraging others to explore their identities and stories in the context of community and culture.

Wilbur, a Tulalip and Swinomish citizen, is known for her ambitious project 562, which redefines Native American life through storytelling and art. With a deep commitment to her heritage, she sold her belongings in 2012 and set out across the continent in her RV, “Big Girl,” traveling over 250,000 miles to document the lives and landscapes of over 500 tribal nations. Wilbur challenges stereotypes and brings Indigenous identity’s often-unseen resilience and richness through her photography and narratives.

One of Wilbur’s most memorable encounters was with Wilson and Oliver Hoogendorn, brothers from Nome, Alaska, who defied expectations by summiting Mount Denali without sponsors or professional equipment. Their journey exemplified the strength and determination of Indigenous people, demonstrating an enduring connection to their homelands. “They were there to show their power and resilience,” Wilbur explained, “pushing against every obstacle without losing their sense of purpose and pride.”

Another powerful experience was her visit with the Kumi people in Southern California, where she witnessed the tradition of singing 1,200 songs to welcome a new child into the world. She described these ceremonies as embodying the essence of Native identity, steeped in ancestral wisdom and a profound relationship to land and community. “It’s about carrying on something greater than ourselves,” Wilbur said, “so that our young people can see their heritage alive in today’s world.”

Wilbur’s commitment to storytelling extends beyond photography. Recently, she opened Tideland, a space in Seattle dedicated to Indigenous art, community, and storytelling. “It’s a place where our stories are seen, where our people are understood on our terms,” she shared, reflecting her vision of preserving and elevating Indigenous voices.

Before leading a meditative session, mind, body, and spirit therapist Glendy Morrison shared her journey of healing and transformation. Morrison spoke about overcoming her struggles with trauma, including leaving an abusive marriage, re-evaluating respect, and understanding the impact of trauma. She emphasized the importance of self-reflection, explaining how her role as a healer has evolved through “turning the mirror inward” and embracing vulnerability. Morrison encouraged attendees to explore their own stories as they confront and understand the layers of their experiences.

BOD member Theresa Sheldon reflected on the initiative, which she described as a “safe space…where we could talk about tough issues, hard issues, real issues.” She acknowledged that grounding oneself can be challenging, especially for those with busy minds. She said, “For those of us whose brains never stop, taking this time to ground ourselves is a challenge, and being able to focus on breath and moments—I’m grateful for that.”

Sheldon shared how the initiative grew from a community desire to come together, discuss difficult topics, and foster a supportive environment. “Sometimes acknowledging is the first step,” she emphasized, “and then the second is, what do we do with it once we know the name of it…or the words we’ve always been living our whole life.” She also encouraged community members to help shape the future of this initiative, expressing excitement for continued growth and feedback. “Maybe it’s something monthly; maybe it’s something else,” she suggested. “We have a Board of Directors right now that wants to focus on healing and wellness and to break down barriers.”

Concluding the season with Wilbur’s presentation underscored the power of Indigenous storytelling and the ongoing journey of self-representation and healing for Native communities. The Season of Healing laid the groundwork for future gatherings and ongoing support for those committed to healing and cultural empowerment, ensuring the conversation continues.
If you are a member of the Tulalip Tribes and missed any of the Season of Healing events, you can watch them at IamTulalip.com.

Together We’re Better hosts a thriller Trunk or Treat

By Kalvin Valdillez, Tulalip News

While Boom City might be famously known for explosive deals on pyrotechnics in the summer, it has recently become the home of a fall time family event, beloved by Tulalip and its surrounding communities. 

Hundreds of kids, dressed as their favorite characters, excitedly bustled about the gravelly site on the afternoon of October 27. Following a line that rotated in a clockwise circle, the kiddos slowly filled up their plastic jack-o’-lantern pails, Halloween-themed totes, and pillowcases with enough sugary snacks to last for months on end. Their parents, many of whom were also incognito as the counterparts to their children’s costumes, followed closely behind, happily engaging in conversation with the thirty-or-so families distributing candy.

Organized by local non-profit, Together We’re Better, the event is highly anticipated by the community each Halloween season. On that particular Sunday afternoon, heavy rainfall was predicted by local meteorologists and weather apps alike. But the Creator must’ve been smiling down upon the Tulalip community as the precipitation let up for the entire duration of the two-hour gathering.

“The annual Trunk or Treat is always an event that I and my family look forward to,” said Together We’re Better Founder, Malory Simpson. “One thing I always try to teach my children is how to give back to our community. This is one of the ways we choose to do that. We typically try to coordinate as a family, or at least park near each other, so we can enjoy each other’s company as well as soak in all of the joy from the youth and community members.”

It seems like every year Together We’re Better finds a way to outshine their previous Trunk or Treat events, in both participation and attendance. And that speaks volumes about their grassroots efforts, because the Tulalips do not play about Halloween. Their standard for wicked fun is set as high as a witch’s broom. Many locals love this holiday. So much so that the Tribe hosts several of its own eerie events this time of year, including a community party and an employee party, to satiate the harrowing Halloween hunger of the community. And that’s not to mention the Marysville, Everett, Arlington, and Stanwood community members who join in on the frightful and fang-tastic fun of Trunk or Treat. 

For the people, by the people, Trunk or Treat is 100% community-funded and volunteer-based, which of course is Together We’re Better’s M.O. With the exception of the social distancing era, in which the Tribe donated a portion of the sweets, the non-profit has relied on candy donations from the community; as well as volunteers to participate and adorn their whips, rez-runners, and hoopties with spine-chilling décor. And for over a decade, this has resulted in a fun opportunity for local kids to participate in the trick-or-treat tradition, in a safe environment and amongst people they know and trust.

“What does Together We’re Better mean to me?” Malory pondered. “The name says it all – Together We’re Better! Together, we helped to create a successful event for around 650 people [this year]. When we all come together and work towards a goal as team, not only are we helping create a healthy and safe event, but we are working together and building bridges with members outside of our community by giving them a space to also join in on the event and host a trunk.”

Trunk or Treat 2024 was a graveyard smash! There were so many great costumes on display, ranging from superheroes to slashers. And there was no shortage of creativity by the volunteers either, this year’s themed trunks included a zombie pig farm, two separate scenes from the Wizarding World of Harry Potter, an ominous cornfield, a witch’s apothecary, and the classic creepy carnival.  

“It is always amazing to witness the work that goes into the event, whether it’s community members sending monetary donations, porch drop-offs of candy, or items purchased from the wish list,” expressed Malory. “And seeing the work that each member puts into creating a fun and sometimes scary themed trunk. You can see how much thought, time, and effort has gone into each trunk. All the kids are happy and smiling, the parents seem just as happy and excited for their children as well. That makes it all worth it.”

If you are looking to get more involved with the community, Together We’re Better is always accepting donations, whether that is goods, funds, or your personal volunteered time. For more information, please contact Malory Simpson at (425) 905-9137. 

Hauntingly fun Halloween party

By Wade Sheldon, Tulalip News

On the eerie night of Friday, October 25, more than two hundred spirited community members gathered at Tulalip’s annual Halloween party, cloaked in their most hauntingly creative costumes. The event was a spine-tingling delight as DJ Monie cast a spell over the crowd with her electrifying beats. The night was brimmed with ghostly thrills, including a cakewalk, ghoulish games, and spooky crafts that captured the essence of Halloween. Adding to the night’s chills, a haunted house provided frights around every corner, while the costume and pumpkin contest stirred up friendly competition.

The party was packed with clever and creative disguises, from fearsome costumes like Michael Myers from Halloween to hilarious throwbacks with characters from Dodgeball’s Globo Gym and Average Joe’s Gym. Silly favorites like SpongeBob SquarePants and friends stole the show on the dance floor, but the competition was fierce. With such imaginative costumes, the judges had difficulty deciding who would walk away with the night’s top prizes.

One standout costume at the contest came from tribal member Zaylen Valez, who shared the story behind his unique creation. “My costume is supposed to be a Tic Tac,” he said, proudly displaying his outfit. Laughing, he explained that the idea came when he spotted a Tic Tac container at the store. The third-place contestant said his favorite part was “winning and showing off my idea!”


Tribal member Sophia Williams embodied the Corpse Bride, taking first place in the Scary Costume category. “I loved listening to the music, having fun, and enjoying time with friends,” she said. “Entering the contest and winning made the night unforgettable!”

As the evening crept on, the haunted maze became a favorite. A few brave souls dashed out of its shadowy depths, wide-eyed and breathless, only to turn right back around and head in for another dose of frights. A couple of kids yelled out, “That was scary!” Before laughing and running back in.


  It was a thriller of a night as ghouls, goblins, and even Tic Tacs filled the room; their spooky costumes brought a playful fright to the Halloween scene. From the glow of carved pumpkins to haunting laughter, Tulalip created Halloween memories that may linger until next year.