The Tulalip Tribes, successors to the Snohomish, Snoqualmie, Skykomish, and allied tribes, hold a rich history tied to the Treaty of Point Elliot. These tribes moved to the Tulalip Reservation, where the Snohomish River once flowed—the very land that shaped their heritage. The Village of Hibulb, now Legion Park, stood as a principal village in this ancestral landscape.
However, the Port of Everett’s recent attempt to annex Tulalip into the port district is concerning. Disguised as a government, this for-profit corporation seeks to assert jurisdiction over Tulalip territory. Yet, Tulalip’s sovereignty and treaty rights are well-established. Our people predated the glaciers, and the federal government recognized our sovereignty before Washington became a state. Both state and federal authorities must condemn the Port of Everett’s land grab, which encroaches on our treaty-guaranteed rights and taxes those living on the Tulalip Reservation, an affront to tribal integrity.
The flawed process behind the Port’s boundary expansion initiative adds to the frustration. Instead of direct communication, the Port misrepresented Tulalip’s support to the Snohomish County Council, leading to the annexation’s inclusion on the ballot. True government-to-government relationships require mutual respect and good neighborliness. Tulalip exemplifies this by benefiting local families through economic ventures and gaming revenue. Our contributions to charitable organizations and education underscore our commitment to the public good.
Yet, we tire of being the sole government asked to sacrifice. We’ve compromised on treaty rights and tax collection within our federally recognized city, funded entirely by tribal resources. When will neighboring governments prioritize collaboration over extraction? Meaningful consultation with tribal governments should extend beyond checkboxes.
The Port of Everett’s boundary expansion isn’t about governance or shared resources; it’s a revenue strategy. While they claim to be the lowest taxing district, their ambition may lead to rapid changes. Tulalip simply asks the Port to respect our boundaries.
Vote No on Port of Everett Proposition No. 1
Teri Gobin, Chairwoman
Tulalip Tribes
Tulalip
Talk to us
> Give us your news tips.
> Send us a letter to the editor.
> More Herald contact information.
