Stillaguamish Tribe of Indians of Washington facts for kids
Stillaguamish River, the tribe's traditional homeland and namesake
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|
| Total population | |
|---|---|
| 237 enrolled members | |
| Regions with significant populations | |
 United States ( Washington) |
|
| Languages | |
| English, Lushootseed | |
| Religion | |
| traditional tribal religion |
The Stillaguamish Tribe of Indians is a group of Stillaguamish people who live in Washington. They are one of the many Native American groups from the Pacific Northwest region. The Stillaguamish Tribe is officially recognized by the United States government. This means they have a special relationship with the government and certain rights.
Some other Stillaguamish people are part of the Tulalip Tribes.
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What Does the Name Stillaguamish Mean?
The name "Stillaguamish" has been used since the 1850s. It refers to the Native American people who lived along the Stillaguamish River. In 1855, the tribe signed an important agreement called the Treaty of Point Elliott. They signed it using the name Stoluck-wa-mish.
Where Do the Stillaguamish Live?
The Stillaguamish Tribe has special lands called "trust lands" in Snohomish County, Washington. These lands are held by the U.S. government for the tribe's benefit. In 2014, the federal government officially gave the tribe a reservation that is about 64 acres in size. A reservation is a piece of land set aside for Native American tribes.
How Is the Stillaguamish Tribe Governed?
The main office for the Stillaguamish Tribe of Indians is in Arlington, Washington. The tribe has its own set of rules, like a constitution, which they approved on January 31, 1953.
The tribe is led by a group of six people called the Board of Directors. These leaders are chosen by the tribe members through a democratic election. This means people vote for who they want to represent them.
The tribe asked the U.S. government to officially recognize them in 1974. They were granted this recognition on February 7, 1979.
Who Are the Tribal Leaders?
As of 2016, the tribal leaders were:
- Chairman: Eric White
- Vice Chairman: Jeremy Smith
- Treasurer: Tara Smith
- Secretary: Kadi Bizyayeva
- Member: Trisha Pecor
- Member: Stacy White
What Language Do the Stillaguamish Speak?
Most members of the Stillaguamish Tribe speak English today. In the past, tribal members spoke a language called Lushootseed. This language is part of the Central Salish language family.
Lushootseed is written using the same letters we use in English. People have created a dictionary and grammar rules to help others learn and understand the Lushootseed language.
How Does the Tribe Support Itself?
The Stillaguamish Tribe has a special department that helps develop and manage their businesses. This department works closely with the Board of Directors. The tribe owns several businesses in Arlington, Washington. These include River Rock Tobacco & Fuel and the Angel of the Winds Casino Resort. These businesses help support the tribe and its members.
