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TRIBAL HEALTH
Supporting Tribal Health and Sovereignty in Our Region
At HealthierHere, we work alongside tribal and Indigenous leaders and communities to center Native voices in advancing health equity. This page offers resources, events, and learning tools to support both community members, partners, and allies. Through storytelling and shared knowledge, we aim to inspire collaboration and cultural understanding.
See more about our work and watch our video below.
About Our Tribal Work
Community & Tribal Innovations
HealthierHere’s Tribal Innovations project brought together Tribal, Native-led, and community-based organizations across King County to co-create culturally grounded solutions that advance whole-person health and equity. Through 18 months of collaboration, partners tested community-driven models that addressed chronic conditions, strengthened culturally responsive care, and reduced health disparities. Supported by an evaluation led by Headwater People and guided by tribal values, the project uplifted lessons, partnerships, and practices that will inform future systems change efforts. Â
Click here to learn more about the Tribal Innovations projects and explore partner playbooks.
Traditional Medicines Investments
HealthierHere’s Traditional Indigenous Medicine investments supported Native-led Native-serving organizations in restoring access to traditional healing practices across King County. These investments made during the COVID-19 pandemic helped strengthen cultural identity, connection, and community care at a time when access to resources was deeply limited. Guided by tribal partners and an evaluation led by Headwater People, the initiative emphasized Indigenous agency and honored knowledge systems often excluded from Western frameworks. These investments planted seeds for ongoing growth, sparking new traditional medicine programs and strengthening the networks that sustain them.
Watch our video "Traditional Indigenous Medicines: Shifting the Paradigm."
Land Acknowledgment
HealthierHere’s land acknowledgment work is rooted in building authentic, accountable relationships with Tribal Nations. In partnership with our Indigenous Nations Committee and Community and Tribal Engagement Manager, we co-developed land acknowledgment language and protocols that honor the Coast Salish peoples while reflecting the diversity of gatherings and audiences across King County. More than a statement, this process supports staff, board members, and others in delivering acknowledgments with intention—cultivating understanding, reflection, and connection to place. HealthierHere’s approach ensures that land acknowledgments are not a check box, but a meaningful practice tied to ongoing commitments, relationships, and action in support of Tribal communities.
Indigenous Nations Committee
The Indigenous Nations Committee (INC) is a standing advisory body that centers the voices, expertise, and leadership of American Indian, Alaska Native, and Indigenous community members in King County. Members include Elders, traditional healers, cultural experts, professionals, and community representatives who guide HealthierHere’s priorities, strategies, and partnerships.
Rooted in Indigenous knowledge and values, INC helps ensure HealthierHere’s work honors sovereignty, trust and treaty obligations, and the lived experiences of Native communities. The committee has advised on key efforts such as HealthierHere’s land acknowledgment protocols and trainings, traditional medicine investments, storytelling projects, and community convenings. Through this partnership, INC helps sustain a shared commitment to healing, cultural strength, and equity.
Learn more about HealthierHere’s Tribal-inclusive governance model.
Tribal Sovereignty & Strategic Priorities
HealthierHere’s Tribal Sovereignty and Strategic Priorities work is rooted in respect for the inherent rights of Tribal Nations to govern their people, lands, and resources. In partnership with the Muckleshoot Indian Tribe, Snoqualmie Indian Tribe, Cowlitz Indian Tribe, and Seattle Indian Health Board, HealthierHere collaborates to strengthen trust, uphold treaty obligations, and ensure Tribal sovereignty is honored across all aspects of our work.
This work goes hand in hand with HealthierHere’s land acknowledgment efforts moving beyond recognition toward action. Together, these partnerships are shaping shared strategic priorities focused on care coordination, policy review, and sustainable, community-led health strategies. Through the Dear Tribal Leader process and ongoing consultation, HealthierHere continues to learn from and align with the visions of Tribal leaders and Native-serving organizations.
Resources for Tribal Communities
Access materials and opportunities tailored to the needs and priorities of tribal communities across our region.
Resources for Self Education
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Latest News & Stories
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