As citizens of Tukwila, we identify with images of our proud heritage. Salmon adorn our tables atop cedar planks, while umbrellas stand sopping wet beside our front doors. We take pride in our land, our weather, our culture, and our history. Yet, as we spend our time mindlessly going about our days we have come to miss one of the largest injustices in the history of Puget Sound.

The Federal Government of the United States has denied tribal recognition to the Duwamish Tribe. The Duwamish Tribe, the original ancestors of what has become our great city, has not been federally recognized? The tribe of Seattle and Tukwila's namesake isn’t recognized? How can we stand as citizens of this city, this state, and this country and not realize the injustice in this act? I have been ignorant in my life until this point, but I will not be ignorant anymore. The history of our Government’s relations with Native Americans has not exactly been the epitome of justice, but we have a chance to make a difference. We have a chance to say,“We will not stand for this anymore!”

Our Mayor and our Governor have placed their support behind the Duwamish, yet they have done nothing but speak hollow words. Our Congressman and Senators have placed their support behind the Duwamish, yet no action has been taken. This tribe is our city’s history! Do not let our politicians, who have great skill as speakers but apparently lack the motivation for action, get away with politics as usual.

We have elected a President on the basis of ‘change’.‘Change’ starts at home people!‘Change’ starts with the recognition of, and end to the injustices that have been brought by previous politicians. Do not let the Duwamish Tribe fall through the cracks. Do not let your history, and your heritage die. The Duwamish protected the first settlers of this area; perhaps almost 200 years later we can return the favor.