Muckleshoot traditions, arts, and the spirits of our ancestors define where we came from, who we are today, and where we are going. Our survival and continued growth hinges on teaching our children history, culture, and leadership skills so they may carry our mantle for generations to come.
Our elders pass down our ways by continuing to conduct the ceremonies and activities of our ancestors — and holding celebrations that bring our brothers and sisters together from around the region.
Following the Muckleshoot Reservation’s creation in 1857, the Tribe became known as Muckleshoot, rather than the historic tribal names of their Duwamish and Upper Puyallup ancestors.
Through documenting Muckleshoot voices and stories today, we are carrying on the tradition of our Duwamish ancestors, and educating others about our heritage, culture, and sovereignty.
The Muckleshoot language is a dialect of Puget Salish, or Lushootseed. It belongs to the eastern Puget Sound groups, including Nisqually, Puyallup, Suquamish, Duwamish, Squaxin, Stillaquamish, Snoqualmie, Skykomish, Snohomish, and Skagit. Many Lummi, Nooksack, Yakama, and Twana also knew the language.
Land acknowledgment is a traditional custom that has been historically used by many Native communities. We welcome community members (Indigenous and non-Indigenous) to use our approved statements in local meetings, events, and other gatherings!