PORTLAND — Tribal leaders, activists and community members from across the Northwest gathered Jan. 29 to Feb. 1 in Portland for the 2024 Affiliated Tribes of Northwest Indians Winter Convention.

The convention served as a platform for significant announcements, collaborations and recognition, according to a press release from the Columbia River Inter-Tribal Fish Commission.

Kotek reactivates tribal items task force

A historic moment unfolded during the morning session Jan. 29 as Oregon Gov. Tina Kotek, alongside Oregon’s nine tribal chairs, signed the executive order to reestablish of the cultural task force for inventorying Native American items in state and public collections across Oregon. This legislation marks a crucial step toward preserving and promoting Native American cultural heritage.

WSU awards honorary doctorate to Patsy Whitefoot

Yakama Nation citizen and prominent advocate for Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and People, Patsy Whitefoot, was announced as the newest recipient of an honorary doctorate from Washington State University.

Whitefoot’s achievement makes her the first Indigenous recipient in the college’s history, joining an esteemed group of 27 individuals to receive this honorary degree. WSU plans to announced a date and time for a ceremony honoring Whitefoot’s accomplishments.

Marketplace showcases Indigenous talent and collaboration

The convention’s vibrant marketplace featured vendors from as far as Arizona, offering an array of traditional beadwork, fresh salmon and various wares. Tribal organizations and businesses closely aligned with tribal communities showcased their products and services.

The Oregon Zoo set up an informational station with a Pacific lamprey photo booth, exemplifying ongoing collaborations with Pacific Northwest tribes, CRITFC and Metro Regional Government to indigenize local attractions.