Seattle is situated on the ancestral and unceded territory of the Coast Salish people, specifically the traditional lands of the Duwamish, Suquamish, Stillaguamish, and Muckleshoot Tribes. This acknowledgment recognizes the deep historical and ongoing connection these Indigenous communities have to the land now known as Seattle.
Understanding Seattle's Indigenous Roots
The vibrant city of Seattle, including its various neighborhoods and natural greenspaces, occupies land that has been stewarded by Indigenous peoples for millennia. It is important to recognize that this land was historically taken, and the city continues to benefit from its occupation of these ancestral territories.
The specific tribal nations whose lands comprise the Seattle area are:
- Duwamish People: Known as the "People of the Inside" (referring to Elliot Bay), the Duwamish are the host tribe of Seattle, with a long history in the area, particularly along the Duwamish River.
- Suquamish People: Located across Puget Sound on the Kitsap Peninsula, their traditional territory also extends into areas now part of Seattle, particularly Bainbridge Island and Blake Island. Chief Seattle, for whom the city is named, was a leader of both the Duwamish and Suquamish tribes.
- Stillaguamish People: Their ancestral lands are primarily along the Stillaguamish River, north of Seattle, but their traditional hunting, fishing, and gathering areas would have extended broadly within the Coast Salish territory, including areas near present-day Seattle.
- Muckleshoot People: Their reservation is located southeast of Seattle, but their traditional territory encompasses a vast area, including the Green and White River systems and extending into the present-day city limits.
Acknowledging Traditional Territories
Understanding the original inhabitants of a region is a crucial step toward recognizing the rich history and ongoing presence of Indigenous peoples. This awareness fosters a deeper connection to the land and promotes respect for the cultures that have thrived here long before colonization.
Here's a summary of the primary tribal lands Seattle is on:
| Tribal Nation | Primary Ancestral Connection to Seattle Area |
|---|---|
| Duwamish | Direct host tribe of Seattle, particularly along the Duwamish River and Elliot Bay. |
| Suquamish | Ancestral lands across Puget Sound, with historical ties to the Seattle area. |
| Stillaguamish | Traditional territory extended to the north, with historical connections to the broader Coast Salish region. |
| Muckleshoot | Ancestral lands encompassing river systems southeast of Seattle, including parts of the city. |
By acknowledging the ancestral lands of these Coast Salish tribes, we honor their enduring heritage, their deep connection to this place, and their ongoing contributions to the region.
