“Bubbles!” exclaimed 7-year-old Zy’ani Johnson as countless bubbles caught in the wind and blew all about the Mission Highlands playground. While she watched a particularly big bubble fly away, young Marcus James chased it down. As it lifted high into the air, he reached it at the last second. Laughing with joy, he jumped into the sky with his index finger extended and popped it before it could get away. Returning to the bubble station, exuding jubilation and confidence from the adults cheering him on, Zy’ani welcomed him back and said, “Pop! Pop! Pop!”
This bubble extravaganza, organized by Tulalip Family Haven’s Intellectual Developmental Disability Support program (IDD), took place on April 25 and was certainly heartwarming and one for the books. Held in celebration of Autism Acceptance Month, the springtime get-together brought smiles to dozens of local kids either diagnosed with an Autism Spectrum Disorder, or those who are in the process of receiving a diagnosis.
What made the event all the more special, was the fact that the bubble station was completely homemade, which allowed for some great interaction between the parents, kiddos, and the IDD team. Caseworkers, Alayna Helland and Talia Franza did their research and made numerous giant bubble wands simply from dowels and rope in anticipation of gathering.
When the families arrived, they got the chance to teach them how to use the bubble wands, making it a hands-on and sensory-satisfying occasion for the children. Evidenced by the happiness and gleeful expressions on their faces, the kids had a blast creating their own bubbles, which made for a much more memorable and fun experience than it would’ve if the IDD program decided to hire a bubble professional.
Still in its early years of infancy, the IDD program has done good work for Tribal families since its inception two years ago. Nationally, autism is becoming more prevalent in households across the country. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), one in thirty-six children in the United States are diagnosed with an ASD.
Though this statistic could be considered across the board for all races and nationalities, it could also be a little misleading when it comes to children living on reservations. This is due to a general lack of resources and information available to tribal families throughout the nation. While most kids living with ASD or IDD receive their diagnosis by the age of three, Indigenous youth often don’t get an official diagnosis until middle childhood or preadolescence.
This can be overwhelming for tribal families. Without receiving that diagnosis, which is a daunting process on its own, those families don’t have access to tools and resources that are helpful and fundamentally necessary during their kiddo’s early childhood years. The IDD program was established to help bridge that gap between the reservation and those resources.
The program is referral-based and takes both outside referrals, from other tribal programs and/or the Marysville School District, as well as self-referrals where a family can request services by either in-person appointments or by completing an online application on Family Haven’s tribal department webpage. They offer their services to Tulalip tribal members as well as to other Natives who live in Snohomish County. IDD services include monthly play groups, weekly support groups, community outreach, connecting families with resources, and assistance with any applications in regard to their child’s needs such as medical, disability, and caregiving.
The Autism Acceptance Month bubble event encompassed all of these services in one. Inside the Mission Highlands building, there was a resource booth filled with all the necessary paperwork and informational flyers for the families to learn more about the program and how they can assist their kids throughout their journey. Most importantly, the gathering allowed families the chance to get to know each other, and also for the youngins to socialize together while engaging in bubble play. This has been proven to be impactful for kids with autism and their brain development and cognitive function because of its emphasis on patience, perception, creativity, sensory integration, visual tracking, hand-eye coordination, cause and effect, social interaction/skills, and motor skills.
While her son, Marcus, made his way back and forth from the playground to the bubble station, Yulia James shared, “I wanted for him to have fun and be around kids his age, make new friends. He is an only child, so I wanted him to get to know everybody and other people besides just his relatives. My son is not diagnosed with autism yet, we are still waiting on the diagnosis. But Alayna has helped me with everything and helped us go through all the channels. This is good to see – that he likes to have fun with different kids. I would love for more events like these to happen more often.”
As his daughters Zy’ani and Anirrah, were fully immersed in that bubble life, Quincy Johnson expressed, “Both of my daughters have autism, so we were looking for programs to help us out. This is still fairly new to me, Zy’ani is seven and was diagnosed two years ago and I’m still getting my youngest diagnosed. I’m still learning and figuring stuff out as I go. I can honestly say Family Haven is a blessing. They helped with resources and support because I didn’t know where to start. And today – I just love it. I feel like there needs to be more events like this for kids with autism. I didn’t know how they were going to act around other kids, but they’re doing fine. They love bubbles. They’re loving it, so I’m loving it too. What Family Haven is doing is wonderful and I’m so thankful for them.”
The two-hour bubble bash was a success and has many families looking forward to more group play and events.
Said Alayna, “Today felt really good. The kids really took to the bubbles and the adults too. We had a lot of sensory stuff going on, the bubble play, and sidewalk chalk, and just being outside. We always try to have a sensory-based activity to keep the kids busy and interested and it seemed to really work out today. A lot of our parents feel secluded at home because kids who are autistic, they have their quirks and their ticks and there are different things about them. I feel that when we have events like this, they can be accepted for who they are. And it feels good to provide a space where they can be themselves, have fun, and be happy.”
For more details about the IDD program, please contact (360) 716-4935.
A certain cartoon sponge once famously said, “We’re not just blowing bubbles, we’re making bubble art!” He quickly backed up this statement by using his special technique to conjure a butterfly from his bubble wand, while also unintentionally annoying his underwater neighbor.
As hilarity ensued in the bubble-centered Spongebob Squarepants episode, Spongebob’s unwavering fondness for sudsy orbs shined a bit of light on the important role bubbles play in brain development and cognitive function. Examples of this include patience, perception, creativity, sensory integration, visual tracking, hand-eye coordination, cause and effect, social interaction/skills, and even motor skills.
Now, though bubbles are beloved by people of all ages, children who are diagnosed with an Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) take a particular shine to bubble play. This is most likely because it helps fulfill so many of their sensory needs by offering an engaging and calming experience.
A few years back, in April 2012, a nonprofit called Faces 4 Autism embarked on an initiative to set a Guinness World Record for the most people blowing bubbles at the same time and invited schools and families across the nation to participate. After achieving this amazing feat, bubble play became a staple at Autism Awareness/Acceptance Month events throughout the country. And this year, the Tulalip Family Haven’s IDD program is hosting a bubble-themed gathering on April 25, to celebrate Autism Acceptance Month on the rez. Or as Spongebob would say, they are gearing up to ‘bring it around town’.
Autism is a common, yet very complex, intellectual developmental disability that has significantly been on the rise over the past few decades. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), one in thirty-six children in the United States are diagnosed with an autism spectrum disorder. That study also shows that Native children are affected at a similar rate as other races and ethnicities, but that does come with a caveat.
Because of a lack of resources on reservations and access to mental health care, many Indigenous kids are diagnosed later on in life, during their pre-teen years. In comparison, non-Native children living with ASD are typically diagnosed by the age of three. Early indicators include language delay, repetitive behavior, obsessive interests, as well as social and communication challenges. The CDC states that children living with ASD have different ways of learning, moving, paying attention, and interacting with the world around them.
Furthermore, research conducted by the American Academy of Pediatrics showed that Native youth are 13% less likely to be identified with autism in early childhood, while non-Native kids are 1.5 times as likely to receive an ASD diagnosis at a young age. And those low statistics and the lack of available knowledge surrounding IDD tends to lead to negative misconceptions, denial, and a feeling of despair once an Indigenous child is diagnosed with any form of IDD.
With the prevalence of ASD on the rise, many communities are slowly transitioning from participating in Autism Awareness Month to celebrating Autism Acceptance Month, including Tulalip.
Said Alayna Helland, IDD Case Manager at Tulalip Family Haven, “Awareness is important, but acceptance is also vital. To show acceptance of individuals with autism, it’s important to focus on everything they can do instead of focusing on what they can’t do. People with autism are often gifted with unique abilities like exceptional memory, heightened attention to detail, strong visual-spatial skills, and unique perspectives on problem solving.”
In preparation for Autism Acceptance Month, Alayna reached out to Tribal member and a parent of a child with ASD, Cara Mccoy. Cara spoke on the difficulties Tribal families face with the lack of inclusion when it comes to attending community gatherings. Cara shared, “We rarely go to the events because there are a lot of people and it’s loud. To do more things in the community, offer sensory-friendly events. Have a sensory room at the more significant events.”
The IDD Support for Families program was developed in 2023 to help Tulalip community members with an ASD or IDD diagnosis by bridging the gap between the reservation and the available resources.
The program is referral-based and takes both outside referrals, from other tribal programs and/or the Marysville School District, as well as self-referrals where a family can request services by either in-person appointments or by completing an online application on Family Haven’s Tribal department webpage. They offer their services to Tulalip tribal members as well as to other Natives who live in Snohomish County. IDD services include monthly play groups, weekly support groups, community outreach, connecting families with resources, and assistance with any applications in regard to their child’s needs such as medical, disability, and caregiving.
When asked about the importance of celebrating Autism Acceptance Month, Alayna stated, “It is important to celebrate because Studies have shown that children in Native American communities are less likely to have access to a specialist to receive a diagnosis and are less likely to have an early intervention. Early intervention is crucial for children with autism because it maximizes their potential for positive outcomes by addressing developmental challenges early, improving essential skills like communication and social interaction, and enhancing independence and overall quality of life.
“The IDD program assists in connecting families with providers that can diagnose Autism and ADHD, and it’s important that our community knows this resource exists so early intervention is possible. The IDD program holds events throughout the year that are accommodating to our community members with Autism. On April 25, we are celebrating Autism Acceptance Month at the Mission Highlands building. We will have sensory activities for the children, early dinner, and information and resources for anyone interested in the program.”
The Autism Acceptance Month bubble blast bash will take place from 3:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m. at the Mission Highlands park on the last Friday of April. For more details about the IDD program or the upcoming gathering, please contact (360) 716-4935.
Each year, hundreds of thousands of children in the United States experience the trauma of abuse and neglect. According to the National Children’s Alliance, one in four girls and one in 13 boys will experience child sexual abuse. This devastating reality underscores the importance of community action and support. In 2022 alone, 558,899 children were identified as victims of abuse and neglect, and by 2024, Child Advocacy Centers across the nation had served over 372,000 children facing allegations of abuse.
In recognition of National Child Abuse Prevention Month, Tulalip’s Children’s Advocacy Center held a community awareness event at the Hibulb Cultural Center on Thursday, April 3. This gathering brought together representatives from various tribal departments to showcase a plethora of resources aimed at supporting children facing abuse and adversity. The event underscored the critical importance of vigilance and compassion within our community, encouraging attendees to become more aware and active in protecting our youth.
Coinciding with Hibulb’s free admission day, which takes place on the first Thursday of every month, the event featured engaging activities such as a drum-making class and a beaded bracelet workshop. Attendees also had the opportunity to visit booths from Family Services, beda?chelh, Tulalip Bay Fire Department, Tulalip Office of Civil Legal Aid, and Child, Youth, and Family Mental Wellness, which provided valuable information and resources to enhance community support for children in need.
Sue-Mei Slogar, Social Worker for beda?chelh said, “Essentially, CPS can be scary, and people don’t really understand our role and think we are just coming in and taking kids away. A lot of what we do is provide resources for families that need help getting connected to resources in the community and giving them resources we have at our end. We aim to keep kids and their guardians together and strengthen their relationship. And to stop child abuse and child neglect. Also, to help parents be there for their kids.”
Explaining her perspective on the importance of these events, Slogar emphasized that many individuals in need of assistance often feel lost regarding where to seek help. She stated, “A lot of time when people need help, they don’t know where to go and turn to.” Slogar believes that making the community aware of the services available enables those in need to reach out before a crisis occurs. She added that it is essential for the community to understand that support is accessible, saying, “I think that’s helpful for the community to know our presence and build those relationships before something negative happens.” This proactive approach fosters strong connections and ensures a supportive environment instead of waiting until problems escalate.
The Child, Youth, and Family Mental Wellness booth offered resources on grief, stress relief, and self-care tips. They provided fun gifts for children, such as beach balls, to help them practice healthy breathing techniques. Clinical Supervisor Sarah Wright explained, “We are here to bring some awareness to mental health and creative ways to calm ourselves and bring our stress down.”
The Tulalip community’s dedication to preventing child abuse and supporting families was reflected in the heartfelt collaboration and meaningful activities at the awareness event. As these efforts continue, it is vital to remember that help is always within reach. Whether you are a child, parent, or community member seeking guidance, remember that you are not alone. For support and resources or to learn more, contact the Tulalip Children’s Advocacy Center at (360) 716-5437 or email childadvocates@tulaliptribes-nsn.gov
A Saturday night soiree brought together over 200 community members at Tulalip Resort Casino’s Orca Ballroom on March 15. Held on an annual basis, the Problem Gambling Awareness Month Dinner unites people in the name of healing while promoting recovery and celebrating individuals who attained sobriety from their gambling addiction.
Over the years, the gathering has evolved into an elegant event where the people spiffy up and enjoy dinner and a comedy show, all while learning about the dangers of habitual gaming. In its infancy, the dinner garnered around 50 participants and was held in the halls of the Hibulb Cultural Center. The fact that the event has quadrupled in attendance speaks volumes of the positive impact that the Tulalip Problem Gambling has made on the reservation, as more and more people are seeking aid, and the local recovery community continues to grow.
For the past decade, the Tulalip Problem Gambling program has actively participated in a nationwide initiative known as National Problem Gambling Awareness Month. Taking place every March, during the season of bracket clashing known as March Madness, the Problem Gambling program raises awareness about the compulsive gambling disease by hosting fun, engaging, informative, and impactful gatherings in the community throughout the awareness month.
The perilous and often silent habit affects the Native American community at a much higher rate than other ethnicities. A 2019 study by the National Institute on Alcohol and Related Conditions showed that 2.3% of the Indigenous population in America are battling a gambling addiction.
Though heavily focused on problem gambling, the event also celebrates those who are in active recovery for alcohol and substance abuse. Many of those individuals show up to support their loved ones who are recovering from a gambling addiction, only to find out that they also get the chance to celebrate their own hard work of getting clean. No matter the vice, it’s just as important to receive love as it is to show love to others.
The event opened with a traditional prayer and story by Natosha Gobin, Thomas Williams, and their daughter, Lizzie Mae. This year, two individuals shared their personal testimonies at the dinner, Jeff and Joanne. Each spoke of how their gambling addiction abruptly took over their lives, and the strain it consequently put on their friends and family. They talked about hitting rock bottom, Jeff’s happened when he was denied a kidney transplant, and that moment for Joanne occurred when she was facing assault charges. Both Jeff and Joanne were given a second chance and were presented with the option to attend counseling for compulsive gambling, to turn their situations around. Thanks to the Tulalip Problem Gambling program, Jeff and Joanne were able to start their journey to recovery; Jeff received his transplant and Joanne’s charges were dropped. After they each shared their story, the Tulalip Youth Council blanketed them with Eighth Generation wool blankets for their accomplishments, and also for bravely speaking about the challenges they faced and how they overcame.
In Native America, part of the healing journey is laughter. It is one of the best medicines, no doubt. And to be surrounded by the hearty chuckles of uncles and the cackling laughter of aunties is a healing experience in itself. Which is why the Problem Gambling Program is sure to enlist hilarious acts year after year.
At this year’s dinner, Native Comedian, Vaughn Eaglebear served as the event emcee. While keeping the schedule on a smooth run, Vaughn got a few jokes in and even asked the house drum, the 206 singers, to join in while he sang John Wayne’s Teeth, a song he famously wrote for the movie Smoke Signals.
The keynote speaker was JR Redwater. JR is an OG in NDN comedy and was one of the first Indigenous Stand Ups to achieve national acclaim. JR’s 45-minute set was rated R for rezzy and raunchy as he had the crowd in stitches with his Native humor, a specific brand of comedy that many tribal members can relate to.
The evening concluded with what has now become a yearly tradition at the Problem Gambling Awareness Dinner – the recovery countdown. Vaughn started the countdown at 50 years clean. He asked each person in active recovery to stand when he called out the amount years of sobriety they attained. More than 50 people proudly stood and were cheered on during the recovery countdown, an inspiring, heartwarming, and beautiful sight to see.
Following another successful event, the Tulalip Problem Gambling program coordinator, Sarah Sense Wilson, shared, “This year felt spectacular. Electricity was in the air. I think that having the combination of Vaughn, and his comedy routine buddy JR, flowed really well. We had such good attendance. The Tulalip recovery community has been growing and growing. This event isn’t just well attended because of the speakers, it’s well attended because there is a movement of recovery happening in Tulalip. It’s amazing. And I am proud to be, in some small way, a part of that movement. Tonight, we also had people from Lummi, Swinomish, the Everett Recovery Café here joining together and celebrating recovery. Without the support from the team at Tulalip Family Services, and the Tribal Council, this wouldn’t happen. I give big credit to all of them for making this possible.”
If you or someone you love is suffering from a gambling addiction, please contact (360) 716-4304. Below, you will find more information about the compulsive gambling disorder, submitted by Sarah Sense Wilson.
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Problem Gambling Awareness
By Sarah Sense Wilson
Informed decisions make you a winner. Healthy choices ensure your wellbeing and strengthens your family and community. Our future depends on the choices you make today.
Types of Gambling
Video Game Betting/Skins or Treasure Troves
Slahal/Stick games
Sports Betting
Bingo
Scratch Tickets
50/50
Dice
Internet Gambling
Raffles
Gambling Facts
Our Problem Gambling Program is about reclaiming health, wellness, and relationships.
Tulalip Problem Gambling Program is free treatment, referrals, counseling, groups, and family therapy.
Tulalip Tribes Problem Gambling Program is comprehensive, culturally responsive and designed to be tailored for each person seeking support.
Problem Gambling is also referred to as Gambling Disorder, Compulsive Gambling, Addictive Gambling, and Pathological Gambling, or People experiencing Gambling Problems.
Data: 1-3% of Washingtonians are classified as Problem Gamblers.
We could fill the Seahawks Stadium (Lumen Field) to capacity 4x to fit all problem gamblers in our state.
Up to 92% of problem gamblers experience suicidal ideation, and up to 40% attempt suicide.
Sadly, only one 1-in-10 problem gamblers seek professional help.
Lonni Long (left) and Israel Scott Rehaume (right)
By Wade Sheldon, Tulalip News
Wellbriety is a transformative program dedicated to supporting Native communities in their journey toward addiction recovery. Integrating cultural traditions and holistic practices fosters reconnection among individuals and their communities, providing a nurturing environment that promotes healing beyond traditional twelve-step frameworks. The program emphasizes balance and harmony through methods like the medicine wheel, allowing participants to acknowledge their progress and manage their urges as they strive for a brighter future.
On February 20, Wellbriety hosted its third annual dinner at the Tulalip Dining Hall. Around 50 attendees celebrated this ongoing journey. The event highlighted the profound impacts of addiction on Native communities and the strides being made toward liberation.
As many Native communities have faced the painful legacies of addiction, Wellbriety has emerged as a beacon of hope. Its efforts, revitalized in 2023 in collaboration with Tulalip’s Family Services and Problem Gambling Program, assist individuals in finding the Red Road to recovery. During the dinner, Robin Johnson, a Chemical Dependency Professional, and Katy Berry, a Substance Use Disorder Professional from Tulalip Behavioral Health, facilitated a space for attendees to share their personal stories, illustrating how culture can serve as powerful medicine in reclaiming lives from despair.
The evening underscored that hope and healing are possible, even in the face of daunting challenges, reinforcing the importance of community and cultural identity in the recovery journey. Attendees recounted their distinct paths to sobriety—or should we say, Wellbriety. The journey looks different for each participant.
Israel (Scott) Rehaume, a Yakima Native with 13 years of sobriety, faced a difficult upbringing that led to destructive adult behaviors. After encountering the law, he realized the need for change.
For many, overcoming addiction is not just about abstinence; it’s about transformation and purpose. Israel reflects on his arduous journey with a determination to change. He aims to be the role model he always needed as a child. Rehaume shared, “It’s been a long road since my addiction started, and today, I strive to be the person I wish I had been then. Alcohol and drugs are slow suicide.”
His addiction began at six, bringing drinks to his father and his friends. “I thought my dad was a superhero, and that’s where it all began. I was allowed to drink at twelve, which eventually fueled my addiction with violence. We would get drunk and fight. Soon, I was drinking at school and was expelled at seventeen. I was living a hectic life filled with meth, and while it felt normal, it wasn’t.”
His turning point came after being shot in a drive-by. He also faced consequences for breaking and entering, which led to his first treatment sentence. During this time, he stayed clean for eight months before relapsing. Rehaume would finally achieve sobriety after being caught with a firearm and sentenced to prison. “When I got out, I didn’t let anything interfere with my sobriety. When I had my son, I wanted to ensure he was raised right,” Rehaume recounted. He stressed, “I do everything I can to help the community because I spent so much time peer-pressuring people into dope; now it’s time to peer-pressure them into getting clean.”
Rehaume encouraged community support, saying, “If you get enough people to lean on, then you won’t fall.” He believes that “sobriety and wellness are key.”
Lonni Long also shared her journey, revealing, “When I was 18, I knew I was an alcoholic. I thought I was going to die but didn’t want to do anything to change it.”
Lonni’s childhood was tumultuous, marked by the loss of her mother at ten and living with relatives. She recalled, “Growing up, I had to live with my relatives. From ages 8 to 12, I faced a lot of abuse, both sexually and emotionally. I started acting out at 13 to 14, drinking, smoking, and getting involved with gangs.
Despite attempts at recovery at ages 16 and 18, Lonni struggled with addiction, reflecting, “At first, it would work. I knew I wanted to do better, but alcohol made me feel happy.” At age 17, her sister’s sudden and tragic death plunged her into more profound grief, where she noted, “I became selfish and self-centered. That’s when I started using drugs. I began smoking meth and continued for 15 years straight.”
Lonni’s life spiraled into chaos: “I lost track of the constructs of time. Time didn’t mean anything to me.” After multiple DUIs and a period of not trusting anyone, she discovered she was pregnant. “I couldn’t change my life for myself. When my baby was born, it was like magic. He made me want to be better and to be clean and sober, which I never thought I could be.” After nine years of sobriety, Lonni emphasized, “This is just the beginning.”
Victor Garcia
Victor Garcia, a member of the Upper Skagit Tribe, reflected on his journey, saying, “It’s crazy to be coming to events and meetings. A year ago, I was in a dark place. I didn’t have anyone in my corner. It wasn’t until I met the people of Tulalip that I felt actual kindness and love. A few elders would tell me they had prayed and lit a candle for me. They would say they were thinking of me and praying for me. That was an encouraging thing to hear.”
It took a while for Garcia to find his footing as he struggled with active addiction for 12 years. However, he found positivity at the Wellbriety meetings, which he described as a source of great strength. “There’s a lot of good medicine,” he explained. Garcia noted how he saw people who were once on the streets with him, now doing better. He appreciates the program’s many supportive resources, stating that they equip participants with essential tools for maintaining sobriety.
The event closed with a powerful reminder of the strength found in unity with a countdown of sober time. Together, attendees celebrated an impressive collective total of 177.8 years of sobriety. Stories of hardship and healing echoed a shared truth: recovery is possible, and no one has to walk the path alone. For those seeking support, Wellbriety offers weekly meetings at the Tulalip Dining Hall every Friday at noon, with additional sessions at Behavioral Health Services. The next opportunity to connect is the annual Problem Gambling Awareness Community Dinner on March 15. Those interested in attending can RSVP at (360) 716-4400.
It is a truly beautiful moment to witness the recovery countdown and see dozens of Tulalip community members recognized for their work in taking back control against what is often referred to as a silent disease. An estimated two million US citizens meet the criteria for severe gambling addiction any given year, according to the National Council on Problem Gambling. And though that is roughly just one percent of the entire country’s population, there are hundreds of families affected by problem gambling and the multiple issues that stem from the disease.
The recovery countdown occurs every year at the Tulalip Problem Gambling’s annual community dinner. Starting at 50 years, the event MC calls out increments of time down to one month. Each person who has attained the corresponding amount of gaming sobriety under their belt, stands up and is met with applause for their time, effort, and resiliency in the battle of their addiction. What started as a small gathering held in the halls of the Hibulb Cultural Center, has grown as word about the program has spread and more people are coming forward about their addiction and seeking aid.
The Tribe’s Problem Gambling program is a national model program that many Indigenous tribes look to when designing and operating their own programs. They are also a part of a northwest intertribal problem gambling coalition with the Swinomish, Lummi, Stillaguamish, Port Gamble, Suquamish, Puyallup, Muckleshoot, and Nisqually tribes. They meet regularly to discuss what is and what isn’t working for their programs and to share ideas on how to educate their communities and provide prevention and treatment to those in need of assistance.
Over recent years, the community dinner has increased in participation, so much so that the event is now held at the Orca Ballroom of the Tulalip Resort Casino. In addition to the countdown, the dinner also includes live testimonies from recovering gambling addicts who share their trials and tribulations, but more importantly their triumphs. This gives the people in attendance an opportunity to relate, and it also serves as a moment to help inspire those who may be currently struggling.
Last year, a local woman who wishes to remain anonymous, opened up about her personal recovery journey with the Problem Gambling program. She stated, “I was pretty much a daily gambler for about 15 years. My rock bottom was losing my job and when that happened is when I finally realized what I was doing. Those two weeks after I lost my job – that was probably the worst experience of my life. I wasn’t sleeping, I wasn’t eating, I was in physical pain all day long. I went through a couple of weeks of just really an all-consuming guilt and shame, and it was horrific.
“And then I thought, you know what, I just need to find a GA meeting. So, I went online and found a GA meeting and attended my first meeting in Everett, where I met this guy who told me about the Problem Gambling program. The next week I went and had an assessment, and the rest is history. I have just over 10 months of sobriety and will reach my first year In April.”
Overall, the program has become a reliable source for those attempting to put an end to their gambling addiction. Throughout the years, it has helped those in recovery by developing a personalized plan with each person who walks through their doors. Since its establishment, the Problem Gambling program has served not only members of the Tulalip tribal community, but non-Natives as well who are also fighting a gambling addiction and live in our neighboring communities of Everett, Marysville, Arlington, and Stanwood.
The dinner occurs every March and is part of a national initiative known as National Problem Gambling Awareness Month, which was founded as a response to NCAA’s March Madness tournament. The Tulalip Problem Gambling Program has participated in the initiative for well over a decade and the amount of support and community participation is both impressive and uplifting.
The 2025 community dinner will be held on Saturday, March 15, at 6:00 p.m. in the TRC Orca Ballroom. As mentioned before, there will be the recovery countdown and speakers from the local problem gambling recovery community. There will also be a number of special guests including the 206 Singers, Tribal member Natosha Gobin, and this year’s event MC, Vaughn Eaglebear. And as many can attest, humor is a major aspect of healing for us as Native people, and for this reason, the program enlisted comedian JR Redwater (Standing Rock Sioux-Hunkpapa Lakota) as the headliner.
Said Sarah Sense Wilson, Tulalip Problem Gambling Coordinator, “We are excited to be hosting another annual Problem Gambling Awareness Community Dinner. We invite you all to share in celebrating recovery together. This is a special evening where we lift the voices of recovery, and enjoy fabulous entertainment, endless laughs, and amazing cuisine. This is a family friendly, free event. Please be sure to RSVP at (360) 716-4400.”
By Wade Sheldon; photos courtesy of Amoreena Anderson
The following small business owner is highlighted in our six-part series on handmade crafts and art for the April 12 General Council meeting: Tulalip tribal member Amoreena Anderson, owner of Coast Salish Soaps. Her sugar scrubs were selected as part of the gifts the Board of Directors chose for tribal members who attend the meeting. This initiative encourages participation in the vote and provides a platform for small businesses to showcase their products and artwork to the community.
For Anderson, running her own business is about more than selling products—it’s a deeply personal and fulfilling experience.
“It’s incredibly gratifying. Being my own boss allows me to control my work environment and choose what I create,” she shares. But beyond the freedom of entrepreneurship, her work has strengthened her family bonds. “It has also brought my children and me closer together. I make special soaps for my daughter and grandkids based on their needs, and that inspires me to develop products for the community as well.”
Her journey into soap-making began in 2011, but it wasn’t until around 2014 that she started making and selling soaps, including shampoo and conditioner bars. She obtained her official tribal business license between 2017 and 2018, allowing her to sell on the reservation legally.
As much as she loves creating, Anderson admits that marketing has been challenging, especially given her commitment to sustainability. “At the end of the day, owning my business is empowering. However, I’ll admit I struggle with marketing. I prefer a ‘naked’ product—no label or packaging—because I want to leave a minimal carbon footprint. Some people complain about it, but I want them to enjoy a great product.”
Despite this, her business has flourished. The order of sugar scrubs for the General Council meeting is her most significant yet, though her experience proves she’s more than ready for the challenge. “This is the largest order of sugar scrubs I’ve ever had. However, I’ve made nearly 10,000 bars of soap over the years,” she says. Her daughter, Maya, loves collecting her soaps, which Anderson appreciates as a tangible reminder of her growth. “I love it because it allows me to see my progress and how much I’ve grown in this business.”
Anderson’s dedication to high-quality ingredients and ethical sourcing truly sets Coast Salish Soaps apart. “I love knowing the ingredients that go into my products. I am very selective about where I source them,” she explains. She prioritizes supporting Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (BIPOC) owned businesses across the U.S. “For example, I source my butter from a business called 3CayG, which is based in Florida. The owner has a shea butter and tree nut butter farm where she teaches and supports women. I also source oils and other materials from local cosmetic suppliers.”
While the fragrances for the General Council gifts remain a surprise, Anderson is excited for attendees to experience her sugar scrubs. “I’m incredibly grateful for this opportunity to share my products with the community. My sugar scrubs have received amazing reviews, and I’ve impressed a lot of people—including myself.”
For Anderson, self-care is at the heart of everything she does. “If I could say anything to others, it would be this: self-care is important. Your skin is the largest living organ on your body—take good care of it. And if you’re thinking about self-care, please think of me!”
Coast Salish Soaps is more than just a business—it reflects Anderson’s passion, dedication, and commitment to her family and community. As she continues to grow, her products nourish the skin and carry a story of resilience, creativity, and care.
As part of Tulalip News’ six-part series on artists and crafts for the upcoming General Council meeting, four more talented innovators will be featured: Elishia Stewart with her delicious jams, Jen Tracy showcasing her stunning orca paintings, Bibianna Ancheta with her revitalizing chapstick, and Walter Moses presenting his elegant cedar clappers. These artists, like Anderson, are using their talents to create meaningful and high-quality products for the community.
It’s not an implausible statement to say the name Malory Simpson is synonymous with the Tulalip community. Because in more ways than one, Malory is the community. Take a moment and reflect on all the Tribal events held throughout each year and pick your favorite. Chances are high that she was behind the scenes as showrunner, whether the event was cultural, celebratory, or solemn. Actually, scratch that because if we’re being honest, she was more than likely participating during that event as well. Engaging with her community while simultaneously making sure everything went without a hitch.
There are exceptions to this, however, such as school events or gatherings organized by Tribal families. But say you chose a community-driven event like the Easter Bunny Run or the annual Trunk or Treat event, guess what? Malory did that too.
As the Tribe’s events manager for the past several years, and founder of the local non-profit organization Together We’re Better, Malory has dedicated her life to the community. And along the way, she rediscovered her love for the Tulalip culture, became a prominent voice in the community, and made invaluable connections throughout the reservation. And as if she wasn’t busy enough, she also etched out some time to earn her bachelor’s degree in Human Services from the Northwest Indian College – no biggie.
All the long hours put in, experience gained, and knowledge acquired served as preparation for Malory’s new journey, which officially began the moment she accepted the position as Director of both the Legacy of Healing and the Children’s Advocacy Center. Where of course, she will continue to make a positive impact for our community in a very meaningful way.
Just two weeks in with her title still fresh, Malory agreed to an interview with Tulalip News. In this Q&A, you will learn about who Malory Simpson is, what fuels her passion for community work, her reasons on why she accepted this new role, and her desire to help and support her fellow tribal members.
Why don’t we start with a little bit about your background?
My Indian name is γʷιψαταλ. That comes from my maternal grandpa’s side. It was my great-great-great-great grandma’s Indian name and then my mom took that name on. And when she passed away, and we had her memorial, it was placed on me. It is an ancestral name, which is really cool.
My English name is Malory Simpson. On my mother’s side of the family, I come from the Gobin, Taylor side. And on my father’s side of the family is the Jones, Simpson side. My parents are Rodney and Kimberly Simpson junior, my grandparents are Betty and George Taylor, and Dawn and Glenn Simpson.
I am a mother of four. I’ve lived on the reservation my whole life; my kids have been raised out here their whole lives. That’s been kind of fun for us, living by the bay. And being able to drive by the bay every day is just healing in itself.
Let’s speak about your new role. What is your official position?
I am the Director of the Children’s Advocacy Center and the Legacy of Healing. I’m looking forward to learning all aspects of the position. I’m very much a team player, so I would love to be cross trained in all areas so I can help where it’s needed.
What drew your interest to this position?
I noticed it had been open for a while. I thought they might be having a hard time finding somebody to fit the position. And so, I reached out and asked what the duties are and what’s the schedule look like. In my previous position, I was pulled away from my family on so many evenings and holidays, and you could tell that it was putting a strain on my kids, who were wanting their mom to be home with them.
And also, just with my personal experience with domestic violence, because I am a DV survivor. And I understand with the Children’s Advocacy side, the dynamics are different. But really it was just my own personal experience with helping people in the community, the way that I have in the past, just by sharing my story. It was a big motivator for me to do it in a more professional setting. I did go to school to get a Human Services degree, and it felt like a good opportunity to actually work in the field I went to school for.
Can we dig a little deeper into the work you’ve done in the community with Together We’re Better and as the Tribe’s Events Manager?
Prior to becoming the Events Manager, I helped to coordinate community potlucks that we would host every month. And that kind of slowed down because it got really expensive for my cousin and I, who were heading it. Especially after COVID, it really slowed to just the Easter Bunny Run and our Trunk or Treat event. Those are the two huge things we do now, but eventually I think we both want to see the potlucks come back. The purpose behind that was to get our community members together. To bring all the cousins together, who didn’t really know they’re related, and provide a space for them to connect, was really neat to see.
And then I become the Events Manager. After hosting Together We’re Better events, I was able to do something similar for a profession – put on events by the Tribe that also brought our community together and provided a safe place. And in my eyes, that’s a form of prevention and healing, because some people might be struggling. By providing a meal and planning activities, people can start building relationships in the community.
As the Events Manager, you had a big hand in the first Domestic Violence Awareness Month Coastal Jam. Can you talk about that ? And did that serve as inspiration to take on the role of director at the Legacy of Healing?
I got to be on the planning team. Being able to do the footwork in the community and having established those relationships, and the network that I built in the process of it all, I was able to provide those connections to the Legacy of Healing. As the events team, we were also able to pitch in on some budgetary needs. So, we were able to purchase the t-shirts for the event, and everybody loves to get a t-shirt.
I actually got to speak at the event that year, and sometimes it can be really hard to share your story – like how do I want to say this and stay on topic and on subject? But it really is inspiring for other people. There were people who approached me and said they never knew that about me. And my story inspired our Chairwoman to get up and speak too. I will continue to share because of the inspiration it gives other people.
You are the first Tribal member to hold this position since Jade Carela took over as the Executive Director of Family Services. Why is it important to have that Tulalip representation?
It is important for Tribal members to take on roles in leadership positions. And it means a lot to our people – to have people in positions who they know and who they can trust. I feel like when they’re more comfortable, they’re more willing to open up, and they’ll want to come forward and share.
Not only have you been active in the community with TWB and the Events department, but you also have strong cultural ties. Can you talk some more about your background and love for the culture?
I would say it was probably around the time when my mom passed away in 2013 when I became more culturally involved, because I know that’s what she wanted. And before that, we really only practiced smokehouse because my mom was a smokehouse dancer. So, I was looking for other ways to expose my kids to the culture. In 2013, we started attending culture nights. And we all just kind of grew a love for that environment, as far as singing, and my kids liked learning how to dance.
It wasn’t until 2019 that we got back into practicing our culture, when my daughter Shylah decided to go on Canoe Journey. We kind of weren’t getting along at the time, so I was like okay, well you got to figure it out. And she did. She ended up going with her friend and the friend’s sister, who I trust. And when they all went, we got to go and show our support for them.
Shortly after, I took the position as Events Manager and part of that is coordinating Salmon Ceremony practice. I got to learn all this history about the songs, why we sing those songs, the order in which we sing them, and learn all the dances as well. Through learning all those things, I grew such a strong love for the culture. I remember asking, where has this been my whole life?
I feel like our culture really centers us. Our culture will always be our home and who we are. And just this last year, I joined the smokehouse myself and have been on that journey.
We really did find a love, joy, and a connection with each other through the culture, being able to sing and dance together.
It sounds like your mom was the driving force and a big inspiration behind all the good work you’ve done for the community. Do you feel like she would be proud to see how much you’ve grown and that you’re in this position now?
I do. It’s so crazy, but I will probably always crave that. Just to hear her tell me she’s proud of me. I’m going to get emotional, but she has told me from the other side that she’s proud of me, and so I know that she is. And I know my grandparents are too. They were also a big motivator for me. There were so many things my mom wanted to do when she was here, but she didn’t have the confidence to do so. When she left, I knew I had to that for her.
A lot of the things that I do, that are community based, I do for the love of my mom. Because it was something that she was told she needed to do, but she didn’t know how to do it. That was the motivator for Together We’re Better. And she’s just a motivator for me and my kids, and I know my sisters and their kids – for all of us to continue to be good people, because she was so amazing, so loving, so open and non-judgmental. And I’m not just saying these things because she’s my mom, but because that’s totally who she was.
And she knew that you were a survivor of DV, so coming into this position, that’s a big step for you. That’s got to be something she’s happy to see.
Yes, definitely. She was also a victim of domestic violence and unfortunately it was by my dad. But they always found their way back to each other. And so, whenever I was trying to leave my relationship, she didn’t understand. But with that generation, they always tried to work it out. And I think with every generation that we have coming up after us, and all the education that is available, it changes the way we look at domestic violence and sexual assault.
Not only are we growing stronger as a people, but we are giving our children a more solid foundation so they’re even stronger than us. I always say that our kids are going to be the changemakers, and with our generation behind them, it allows them to have that voice, knowing we’ll stand by them.
Kind of like how the generation before us and the boarding school era, how scared they were to say anything and how hush hush everything had to be. It seems like with each new generation that comes, we’re going to keep getting stronger and stronger.
Now that you’re Director of the CAC and the LOH, what are you most looking forward to?
Moving forward with our team to continue to provide our community with the knowledge that they need. Also, to help maintain safety in our community by providing them with the tools through community outreach and educational outreach. One goal of mine is to bring in more culturally relevant activities and events, maybe some crafts.
And also, more education. Really getting out there and bringing that knowledge to our community. Because if you’ve been exposed to something your whole life, you don’t really know that there’s a problem. But once they get that education on it, it might raise some red flags and help open their eyes to their situation and to the realization that it may not be the healthiest relationship.
Are there any specific areas that you are particularly excited to learn more about and get into?
I’m looking forward to learning more about motivational interviewing; to learning more about all of it, especially on the advocacy side. I like to think of myself as having a strong-willed personality, so I think I’d be good at that, advocating for our clients on both sides. As a DV survivor, I understand that side. But the crimes against children, that will be tough and is new to me. So just learning skills on how to manage those situations and being there for our kids and the DV survivors.
Why is it important to have these two programs on the reservation?
Because we need programs to protect and support our kids. I feel it’s important to have a space where kids feel safe. Our advocates really take the time to walk our clients through the process and get them the services they need. And that goes for both programs. There are so many supports our Legacy of Healing provides, so many services to help DV survivors get out of those domestic violence relationships and get them on their feet after fleeing a dangerous relationship.
It can be difficult for people to come forward. Do you have any words of reassurance or advice for those individuals?
The only advice that I would say would be to really listen to that gut feeling. It’s really hard because you will have people that will ask you, why don’t you just leave? And there will come a time when you feel like that is what you need to do. Once you have that feeling, then you should act on it. And whenever you’re ready, we’re always here to help.
I think that it’s important for the community to have a strong Tribal member with auntie vibes in this position. Is that the environment you strive to create, in order for the people to feel comfortable coming to you during their hour of need?
I definitely do. In every position that I’ve held within the Tribe, I’ve tried to build and maintain relationships. My word is all I have and so if I’m telling you that I’m going to do something, I am going to follow through. Because who are we without our word? I always want people to feel comfortable talking to me about anything. I think that’s a really good quality to have.
And it’s actually funny, I just got my photo and information put up at the center this week. We had somebody here for services, and one of their little guys saw my picture and was like, ‘I think that’s my auntie’. I don’t know who he was, but I thought that was so cute. Because in my photo, I have on my beaded baseball cap and my beaded earrings, so he thought, that must be my auntie. That was so awesome.
For more information on both the Children’s Advocacy Center and the Legacy of healing, Malory submitted a short informational article in this week’s issue of the syəcəb. If you would like to get in contact with the CAC, their number is (360) 716-5437. And to reach the LOH, please contact (360) 716-4100.
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More on the CACand the LOH
Submitted by Malory Simpson
Children’s Advocacy Center
The first Children’s Advocacy Center (CAC) opened in Huntsville, Alabama in 1985 when a local prosecutor, Bud Cramer, decided that there had to be a better way to respond to children who had made a disclosure of sexual abuse. The system was fragmented, children and families were not receiving the support they needed, and children were potentially retraumatized by a process that was supposed to be helping them. He brought together key individuals from law enforcement, child protective services, criminal justice, medical, and mental health to develop a better approach. The CAC model uses a multidisciplinary team response, pulling the different disciplines involved with investigation, prosecution, advocacy and treatment together to provide seamless, comprehensive services to child victims. As word spread about the success of the model, the Huntsville team started training other communities and the model spread.
The Children’s Advocacy
Center provides: Mental health services, advocacy, professional forensic interviewing, multi-disciplinary team services, outreach, and education.
Why a Children’s Advocacy Center? Children are among the most vulnerable members of our community. When a child is abused, we are here to provide safety, justice, and healing.
Whom do we serve? The Tulalip Children’s Advocacy Center serves children (and their non-offending family) who are victims of, or witnesses to a crime such as sexual abuse, physical abuse, or severe neglect.
What do we do? Our goal is to streamline the investigative and prosecution process of child abuse cases in a victim-centered, trauma-informed way. We do this by collaborating with those who may be involved in the case such as policing agencies, forensic medical examiners, child welfare, and those involved in the legal system.
Legacy of Healing
The Legacy of Healing provides emotional support, advocacy, and legal assistance to adult victims and survivors of all crimes, including but not limited to:
Domestic Violence
Sexual Assault
Stalking
Trafficking
Survivors of Homicide Victims
Arson
Burglary
Hate Crimes
Identity Theft
Elder Abuse
We also help provide Emergency Financial Assistance: Emergency financial assistance is grant-dependent and may be available to clients on a case-by-case basis. All services, including financial assistance, are based on eligibility and current funding availability.
“I did receive a Pendleton and a blanketing ceremony! It was very emotional because they (beda?chelh team) all seen the growth, because I did grow a lot through the program. I was able to dig deeper into why I do what I do and why I think the way I do. And I’m really thankful that they acknowledge the work that is put in, that they acknowledge that you are a good parent. I feel that’s very important.”
-Jaida Wasko, Tulalip Parent/beda?chelh client
Shelly Lacy and her team at beda?chelh have been on a mission to reinstill trust with their clients since she took the helm at the Tribe’s child welfare program. This effort is to show the community that their number one goal is to keep Tribal families together and to reunite children with their parents, if the court removes them from the home.
A common misconception about the program is that beda?chelh’s only interest is separating the kids from their parents, and that beda?chelh makes the final decision to place them in another home. When in actuality, their role is to assess the child’s living environment and open a case if there’s a safety issue that calls for removal.
Following a co-investigation with the state, the Tribal court system will determine if the child needs to be placed in another home or can remain with the family. beda?chelh is there regardless of the outcome to help you plan your next step, whether that’s addressing those issues with the children still living in the home or beginning the reunification process.
Jaida Wasko, Tulalip Parent and beda?chelh client, recently regained custody of her kiddos. In an interview with Tulalip News, she expressed a great amount of gratitude for beda?chelh and her caseworker. And though her partner may have had a slightly different experience with beda?chelh, she credits the program for their growth as parents and states that with their help, they were able to reunite as a family in an expeditious fashion.
Said Jaida, “I feel like the program is protecting and looking out for the best interests of our children, whether or not people are able to see the hard work that they do. Because it is hard work pulling kids out of families when they don’t want to, but they have to. It’s case by case, but I feel it’s important for someone to step in and motivate parents to reunite and get better for the wellbeing of our kids. Because our kids need stability, discipline, structure. beda?chelh is a really good resource for people like me who are going through things, and they just can’t quite get out of it. They give me motivation to keep going.”
Through their latest efforts, like the implementation of a monthly cultural class for their families, beda?chelh is going the extra mile to show that they are a resource and not the enemy, that they care for the wellbeing of the kids and the entire family unit. And that they are there to support and uplift you through those challenging times.
“I had tested positive for fentanyl and meth, and my kids ended up having to come out of the home,” explained Jaida. “It was kind of hard because they were stuck between opening a case and not opening a case, because me and my husband were both functioning addicts. From the get-go, it was very hard, but they were very understanding. And at the end of the day, we are very thankful for the opportunities we did get. We were able to get help financially from them with clothing vouchers, food vouchers, gas vouchers. They were also able to get us into the same parenting classes, so we were able to do it together. It’s a lot of hard work, but if me and my husband can push through and do that work, anybody can.”
Photo courtesy of Jaida Wasko
Upon the closure of a case, when the child is back in the care of their parents, Tribal Court usually holds a blanketing ceremony, accompanied by a prayer chant or song by local culture bearers. beda?chelh recently took this ceremony over, utilizing the event as an opportunity not only to acknowledge the families’ work of completing their journey with the program, but also to celebrate each accomplishment that their other clients make throughout their time with beda?chelh.
Shelly expressed, “That’s always the fun part of our job, because we get to celebrate that they’ve done it. We make sure to remind them of all their hard work, and how far they’ve come, because sometimes people think we don’t value their work. We want them to know how proud we are of the work they’ve done to get their kids back, reminding them that their kids will always remember the work that they’ve done for them. And then we’ll also award certificates at the celebration lunch, for every family that hits a major milestone.”
In Native America, a blanketing ceremony is held on momentous occasions, such as a graduation or a marriage, to honor your successes. The blanket serves as a physical reminder of your accomplishments and your growth through a certain phase of life, as well as an indicator that you are ready to begin your next journey. In traditional ceremonies or gatherings, blankets are a sign of wealth within tribal families, and to receive a blanket as a gift is a high honor.
When asked about the significance of the blanketing ceremony at beda?chelh, Shelly said, “Now, this is just how I think of it, because it depends on what family you’re in and where your beliefs come from. To me, when we wrap you in that blanket, we put our hopes for you, our love for you, our caring for you in that blanket. We are wrapping you in hope, love, and our caring, so when you’re having a rough day, you can wrap yourself up in that blanket and you can still feel that from us.”
Photo courtesy of Jaida Wasko
With one last case on the verge of closure in the coming weeks, Jaida is excited to join the next blanketing ceremony and celebrate the work her family put in as well as the efforts made by other parents.
“It’s so awesome to see that they go out of their way to do blanket ceremonies for our people,” she said. “It was a surprise when it happened to me. I was surprised, it was emotional, and it shows that we truly do recover. My caseworker said she was so proud of us both, because they don’t see a lot of couples do it together. The way I look at it is our kids are our future. My kids are the most important people on the earth to me. And all the work that they do at beda?chelh is in the best interest of our kids, that’s who they are doing it for.”
Jaida and her family’s experience with beda?chelh is a good example of the saying ‘it works if you work it’. With many new success stories coming from beda?chelh, one could assess that team’s new hands-on approach and emphasis on celebrating their client’s victories is helping overturn that negative perception that many folks on the reservation hold against beda?chelh. One thing is for sure, the program is going to have to stock up on wool blankets as more parents are buying into the program, doing the work to reunite their families, and understanding the need for and the importance of the Tribe operating their own child welfare agency.
“It’s just about providing that extra layer of support for our clients. We really do want you to keep your kids, and we want to be there to help you get your kids back,” Shelly stated. “This is a way to really celebrate with the parents and give them that encouragement to keep going. Because it can feel like there is so much you have to do. It can seem like you have so far to go and you’re not going to make it. So, it’s important to stop and celebrate the work you’ve done.”
beda?chelh is planning to hold a blanket ceremony on the first Tuesday of every month to celebrate their clients’ accomplishments and inspire them to keep working toward reunification. The celebration will be held during the lunch hour at the beda?chelh headquarters. For more information, please contact Shelly Lacy at (360) 716-4059.
Tulalip Legacy of Healing rallies support for DV survivors at 2nd annual Coastal Jam and Dinner
By Kalvin Valdillez, Tulalip News
“I remember gasping for air, feeling his grip tighten behind me. When he finally let me go, I could see the blank expression on his face. Once I finally caught my breath, he walked away. I called the police, which led me to the Legacy of Healing. Their support has been a lifeline for me.”
Tears were visibly streaming down faces while domestic violence (DV) survivor, Andres Thornock, opened up about their experience in a three-year intimate partner DV relationship. By sharing their story, Andres wanted to reassure others that they are not alone, and that help is available at the Tulalip Legacy of Healing.
Andres continued, “Throughout our time together, I faced verbal abuse, intimidation, threats, and ultimately physical harm. My now ex-fiancé struggled with alcoholism and bipolar schizoaffective disorder. His emotions would swing wildly – one moment he’d be shouting, the next he’d be in tears. It felt like a relentless rollercoaster. Eventually, I couldn’t sleep at night; I’d wait until he left for work in the morning just to find some rest. He wouldn’t let me work or pursue anything meaningful, often sabotaging my attempts. Living in a constant state of hyper-vigilance for so long made me believe that anxiety and fear were my new normal. I also fell into a deep depression, isolated from everyone I loved. I felt profoundly alone for far too long. This was my reality for three exhausting years.”
Although Andres was only one of two to share their terrifying and heart wrenching truth on the night of October 25, there were scores of people listening who could relate. They say there’s strength in numbers, and that strength could be felt as over 150 people attended the second annual DV Awareness Month Coastal Jam and Dinner. An impressive turnout considering there were several other community gatherings occurring at the same time. That was important for survivors to see that support, feel that love, hear those stories of resiliency, and help raise awareness about DV, something that happens far too often in Native America.
The yearly coastal jam and dinner is organized by the Legacy of Healing, a program that is designed to support local victims and survivors of DV in several capacities. Whether it’s educating the community about DV, providing resources to survivors, standing in your corner throughout the court process, or even designing a safety plan with you for when you’re ready to leave an abusive relationship, the Legacy of Healing is available 24/7 to help in any way that they can. The program has a strict confidentiality policy and does not pass judgement on anybody who needs to utilize their services. So, if you need information for a friend, family member, or yourself, your concerns and conversations shared will remain between you and the advocacy team.
“You don’t need to live with violence in your home,” urged Marisa Chavez, the Legacy of Healing’s Lead Advocate. “The Legacy of Healing is here for you to utilize for help. Once you speak to an advocate, you will be provided with information to learn the next steps on your healing journey to living a DV free life. It may be tedious, but you will find that you have the inner strength and support to make that happen. You don’t need to walk this journey alone to healing. We are here for you.”
For the better half of the past decade, the Legacy of Healing has participated in a nationwide initiative known as DV Awareness Month. Every October, the program dedicates all of their efforts to educating the community about what DV is and what it looks like, so survivors can identify those red flags and recognize when they are in a dangerous relationship. And through this work, they are able to reach more people and provide support and resources to those in need of their services. During DV Awareness Month, the Legacy of Healing team also partners with the Tulalip Foundation and holds a raffle throughout October, in which all proceeds go directly to helping survivors of DV.
“A lot of times victims experience DV outside of public view and it happens in secret in their own homes,” explained Legacy of Healing Coordinator, Kaley Wickham. “October is a time for us to raise awareness for DV. Most, if not all, of the survivors we work with have also witnessed DV when they were children, or they know other family members or friends who have also experienced it. It’s a very normalized part of their life and yet people aren’t able to recognize it or talk about it.”
In years past, the Legacy of Healing put on a number of trainings, activities, and movie screenings during the awareness month to bring attention to DV occurring at Tulalip and on reservations across the country. Last year, however, the program pivoted to one culturally centered gathering, which was a huge success. As Natives, we know that there is healing in our traditions. Drum and dance are our tradition. Community and cultural gatherings are our tradition. The ancestral language and songs are our tradition. Sharing story and meals together are our tradition. Wrapping each other with love and healing through the culture is our tradition. The Legacy of Healing took each of those aspects of the culture and enveloped it into one night of awareness and healing – the coastal jam and dinner.
Fittingly, the tagline of this year’s gathering was ‘DV is not our tradition’. Unfortunately, in today’s society, more than four in five Native American men and women have experienced some form of violence in their lifetime – more than 3 million people according to the National Institute of Justice. Through that study, the NIJ also reported that tribal communities experience DV at higher rates than any other race or ethnicity throughout the U.S.
On the night of the coastal jam and dinner, Executive Director of the Tulalip Family Advocacy Division, Jade Carela, elaborated on the statistics. “Tonight, I stand before you not only as an advocate of this work, but also a daughter of our community, which has faced immeasurable pain and loss. This issue touches each of us personally. We have DV in our community happen every day. The statistics we discuss are not just numbers; they represent our family members – they are our sisters, brothers, our mothers, fathers, our daughters, sons, our grandmothers, and grandfathers. Each name, each survivor, is a vital thread in the fabric of our community. These aren’t abstract victims; they are us.”
Following the testimonials, bravely shared by Andres and former Tulalip Board of Director Pat Contraro, the dinner concluded with a moment of silence and a prayer song by Antone George (Lummi) and the Westshore Canoe Family. With their swag bags in-hand and donning their new ‘DV is not our tradition’ event t-shirts, the crowd migrated from the Teen Center to the Greg Williams Court for the coastal jam.
As the survivors and their families filed into the bleachers on either side of the court, the healing work began to take place along the sidelines. Throughout the night, three drum groups shared the floor. Their booming voices and steady drumbeats in dedication to all the DV survivors, both inside of the gym and across the reservation. And also, in memory of those who are no longer with us due to DV. Equally as important, dozens of dancers spread that good Indigenous medicine as they occupied the dancefloor for nearly the entire three-hour jam. Many survivors immersed themselves into the songs and dances, experiencing that traditional work first-hand and incorporating their ancestral ways into their healing journey.
“Why does this matter?” asked Jade, “Because the fabric of our community is integral to the entire tapestry of society. The violence that affects us reflects deeper systemic issues that we have faced for generations. Standing up for the rights and safety of Indigenous people strengthens our collective human dignity. Tonight is not just for reflection, but for collective awareness. We must arm ourselves with knowledge and the tools to dismantle the cycle of violence against our community. Violence is against our traditions, our values, and our culture. Together, let’s turn our shared trauma into our collective strength. Stand united, as our ancestors did, and ensure our community does not merely survive but flourishes.”
If you or anybody you know is experiencing an abusive relationship, please do not hesitate to call the Legacy of Healing at (360) 716-4100 for assistance. And if you are in a crisis or an emergency situation, the Legacy of Healing provided a list of three additional hotline numbers that you can utilize during your time of need:
The National Domestic Violence Hotline 1-800-799-SAFE (7233)
Strong Hearts Native Helpline: 1-844-762-8483
Domestic Violence Services of Snohomish County 425-25-ABUSE (22873)
Reflecting on another successful coastal jam and dinner, Jade expressed, “Let us honor the memory of those we’ve lost and those who are still experiencing DV by committing to an unwavering dedication to end violence in our communities. Thank you for standing with us – for our people, for our future. I am grateful that so many of our community members came to support the cause. I’m also thankful for my staff and their dedication to our community. We owe it our ancestors, our current families, and the many generations yet to come to fight for a community where every one of us is safe, respected, and cherished.”
