The Seattle Japanese American Citizens League has been working closely with representatives of the Muckleshoot Indian Tribe on an event to raise awareness within the AAPI community about the history, heritage and legacy of the Muckleshoot Indian Tribe.
The AAPI and Native American communities have a proud legacy of communion and camaraderie. Throughout history, discriminatory laws and social circumstances stimulated the mixing of these two communities in the labor workforce, in marriage, and in socio-political advocacy.
Today, the Muckleshoot Indian Tribe contributes to AAPI organizations around the state that support community advancement.
However, the communities less frequently work together in joint advocacy efforts, and little is understood regarding the history, heritage, and contemporary issues of Native Americans and the Muckleshoot Indian Tribe.
The goal of the workshop is to bring into focus another group with a proud legacy, raise awareness of Native American life in Washington, hear the story of the Muckleshoot Indian Tribe in their own words, and explore ways in which the communities can work together in the future.
At the event, attendees will welcome a variety of panelists from the Muckleshoot Indian Tribe, enjoy a variety of Native American cultural performances, and feast in a community potluck with dishes from Seattle’s many different ethnic groups, provided by AAPI organizations beneficiary of the Muckleshoot Indian Tribe’s philanthropy.
“The event will be held on Nov. 21, a date which coincides with Native American Heritage month,” said Toshiko Hasegawa, past Seattle JACL president and current chapter board member. “It is the weekend before Thanksgiving, a date we feel represents the generosity of Native American peoples. We are excited to demonstrate our gratitude and appreciation for their legacy.” (end)
RSVP is required to attend. Please contact Toshiko Hasegawa at toshikograce@me.com.