03/19/2026
The Chinook Nation has been recognized by the State of Washington.
MARCH 9, 2026 — The Washington State Senate has passed Senate Resolution 8690, formally recognizing the Chinook Indian Nation and its enduring presence along the lower Columbia River and Pacific coast.
The resolution honors the Chinook people’s historic role in regional trade, diplomacy, and cultural exchange — and recognizes their continued presence in Southwest Washington and Northwest Oregon today.
Chinook leadership were present in Olympia to witness the moment, as their Nation’s name was spoken on the Senate floor.
The Chinook Indian Nation was briefly granted federal recognition in 2001 before it was revoked in 2002. The Nation continues its decades-long effort to restore that status.
This resolution does not change federal recognition — but moments like this still matter.
"The United States does not bestow sovereignty on a tribe. A nation, especially one with a history likes ours, is sovereign by its nature," Chairman Tony Johnson said.
What does real recognition look like to you?
(via Chinook Indian Nation)
📸1 – KUOW/Megan Farmer
