Respect our Roots

knowledge as medicine.
cacúnmaʔm (teach how to do)

Our Indigenous Library

We've curated a collection of more than 80 books — Indigenous-authored literature, nselxcin language materials, tribal history, children's books, and social-emotional learning tools that help young people build the vocabulary to name what they feel and how they connect with each other. Now we're building a way to get them into your hands. This is part of how we build power. When our people can see themselves in what they read — in their own authors, their own language, their own histories — literacy stops being something done to us and becomes something that belongs to us.

Raising Future Knowledge Keepers

We believe literacy is power — the power to name what you feel, to understand where you come from, and to imagine where you're going.

Our education work helps young people build that power: reading Indigenous authors, learning their language, and finding their own voices as writers and storytellers. And we don't see learners as recipients. We see them as the next generation of teachers, advocates, and knowledge-keepers.

That belief is rooted in who we are — both of our co-founders hold degrees in education, and we've built this work around a conviction we hold deeply: that when Indigenous young people are given the right tools, they don't just catch up.
They lead.

Grounded Research

Our research is guided by principles of respect for Indigenous knowledge systems, community engagement and participation, interdisciplinary collaboration, and ethical research practices. We’re not just conducting research about our communities, but with and for our communities.

Local History and Cultural Heritage

We explore our area's Indigenous history, including the impact of boarding schools, and preserve traditional narratives.

Culturally Responsive Mental Wellness

Our work develops mental health approaches that honor Indigenous practices and cultural identity.

Sustainable Land Stewardship

We advocate for traditional land management practices and approaches to foster sustainable and culturally-aligned stewardship.

Culturally-Grounded Education

We work to develop educational frameworks that honor Indigenous ways of knowing and seek to empower Indigenous learners.

Reclaiming the Story

Our flagship research project addresses intergenerational trauma and healing head-on. At its heart is an online course — Reclaiming the Story: A Journey to Understanding and Healing Intergenerational Trauma — that brings together traditional wisdom and modern understanding of how trauma moves through families, and how healing does too.

The need spoke for itself. When we opened enrollment, we received over 550 applications in less than 18 hours — enough to max out our system. We’re rebuilding to meet that demand and will reopen applications soon. If you applied, thank you for your patience. The response told us what we already knew: our community is ready for this work.

Research Opportunities

We are seeking a dedicated research assistant to help gather information on traditional ceremonies related to North Central Washington tribal nations, with a specific focus on wedding ceremonies.

Responsibilities:

  • Conduct thorough research on the traditional wedding practices of tribal nations in North Central Washington
  • Gather information from reputable sources, including academic publications, tribal archives, and oral histories (where appropriate and permitted)
  • Compile and organize findings in a clear, structured format
  • Assist in verifying the accuracy and cultural sensitivity of collected information

Qualifications:

  • Strong research and analytical skills
  • Familiarity with Native American studies, anthropology, or related fields
  • Excellent writing and communication skills
  • Ability to work independently and meet deadlines
  • Respect for and sensitivity to Native American cultures and traditions
  • Experience working with tribal communities is a plus

To apply, please submit your resume, a brief cover letter explaining your interest and relevant experience, and any references to [email protected]

We are committed to respectful and ethical research practices. All work will be conducted in consultation with tribal representatives to ensure cultural sensitivity and appropriate use of information.

If this project isn’t of interest to you, but you think others might be, please reach out!

We are seeking a talented and versatile Art Assistant to support our cultural projects and outreach efforts. This position offers a unique opportunity to engage with various artistic mediums and contribute to the preservation and promotion of our cultural heritage.

Responsibilities:

  • Assist in assembling culture boxes, ensuring quality and authenticity of included items
  • Cut fabric for cultural items, maintaining precision and minimizing waste
  • Contribute to beading and sewing projects, following traditional patterns and techniques
  • Help with storyboarding for cultural narratives and educational materials
  • Create engaging social media content to promote our cultural initiatives
  • Assist with community outreach programs and events
  • Support other artistic and cultural projects as needed

Qualifications:

  • Demonstrated experience in various art forms, including beading, sewing, and fabric work
  • Familiarity with indigenous art and cultural practices (specify any particular cultural knowledge if relevant)
  • Strong attention to detail and commitment to quality craftsmanship
  • Creativity and ability to contribute ideas for cultural projects and social media content
  • Excellent communication skills and ability to work collaboratively in a team
  • Proficiency with social media platforms and basic design software
  • Respect for and sensitivity to cultural traditions and protocols
  • Ability to manage multiple tasks and meet deadlines
  • Passion for preserving and promoting cultural heritage

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Experience with digital art and graphic design
  • Knowledge of indigenous languages relevant to our community
  • Previous experience working on cultural preservation projects

To apply, please submit your resume, a brief cover letter explaining your interest and relevant experience, and any references to [email protected]

We are committed to respectful and ethical research practices. All work will be conducted in consultation with tribal representatives to ensure cultural sensitivity and appropriate use of information.

If this project isn’t of interest to you, but you think others might be, please reach out!