Washington Senate acknowledges Chinook Indian Nation

For a few minutes on Monday, March 9, the Washington State Senate paused its usual pace of debate and votes to recognize something older than the state itself. The Senate passed Resolution 8690 honoring the Chinook Indian Nation and acknowledging the Nation's history and continuing presence along the Lower Columbia River and the Pacific Coast of Southwest Washington and Northwest Oregon.

In the chamber to hear it were Chinook Chair Tony "Naschio" Johnson, Vice Chairman Sam Robinson, Councilmember Gary Johnson, and Culture Coordinator Mary Johnson. The resolution was sponsored by Sen. Jeff Wilson of Longview, whose district includes much of the Chinook Nation's ancestral homeland. "The story of the Chinook tribes is a story of resilience, perseverance and compassion," said Wilson. "The Chinook people are an important part of our communities in Southwest Washington today, and I am proud that the Senate chose to offer them this recognition."

For the Chinook leaders in the room, the moment was simple but meaningful. It was a chance to hear the Nation's name spoken aloud on the Senate floor and to see its history formally acknowledged.

"We are grateful to Senator Wilson for his work to ensure recognition of our Nation's important contributions to the region by the WA State Senate," said Tony Johnson. "We were moved by the reception we received from the Senate and were honored to represent the Chinook Indian Nation on this historic occasion. This moment represents an important step forward in the Nation's long-standing relationship with the State of Washington."

The resolution recognizes the Chinook people's long history along the Lower Columbia River. For generations, Chinook traders connected communities throughout the region through trade and diplomacy at the river's mouth, helping shape the culture and relationships that still define the Pacific Northwest today.

For Chinook leaders, the recognition carries meaning beyond the moment. The Chinook Indian Nation continues a decades-long effort for federal recognition and is also advocating for the return of the Naselle Youth Camp property, which sits within its ancestral homeland along the Lower Columbia River.