Inslee joins Washington Tribes for 28th-Annual Centennial Accord
Gathering re-affirms partnership between state government and tribal governments
Gov. Jay Inslee and chairs and councilmembers from Washington tribes came together today for the 28th-Annual Centennial Accord, a policy and discussion meeting held each year between 25 state agencies and more than two dozen tribal governments.
The Swinomish Indian Tribal Community hosted this year’s Centennial Accord at the Swinomish Casino & Lodge in Anacortes. Inslee delivered opening remarks at the gathering.
“It is an honor to attend the annual Centennial Accord this year to re-affirm Washington’s commitment to this sovereign-to-sovereign relationship,” Inslee said. “Our state is grateful for its partnership with tribal governments on the challenges we all face. Washington state has a deep respect for tribal culture and heritage — it is an important part of who we are as a state.”
Today’s discussions, as well as work sessions that took place on Monday, touched on a wide range of topics, including education and early learning, health care, the opioid epidemic, natural resources, broadband services, social services, and the state’s new Department of Children, Youth & Families.
“We are honored to gather for the past 28 years for the Nation’s most progressive government-to-government commitment between a State and federally recognized tribes. We have made a difference,” said Swinomish Chairman Brian Cladoosby, noting the profound impact of the Accord. “We continue to strive to accomplish our shared goals, and the commitment to be unified has resulted in a solid foundation for us all to make balanced decisions that impact all who call this great state home.”
On Monday evening, Inslee also attended a ceremony in the Swinomish Smokehouse with youth from the tribal community.
“Our governments share a commitment to ensuring a healthy and prosperous future for all Washington children,” Inslee said. “Being able to witness the restoration and the preservation of language, songs and culture of the Swinomish Tribe was an incredibly uplifting experience.”
