On February 25, 1880, Chemawa Indian School opened its doors, becoming one of the longest-operating Native American boarding schools in the United States. Named after the Chemawa band of the Kalapuya people of the Willamette Valley, the school originally served as an elementary institution for Indigenous youth. Over the years, Chemawa evolved into a high school and remains active today, with a mission to provide Native students with academic and cultural education.

A School Born from Federal Assimilation Policies

Chemawa Indian School was established as part of the U.S. government’s assimilation policies, which sought to remove Native children from their communities and immerse them in Euro-American culture. It was one of several Indian boarding schools created during the late 19th century, where students were forced to cut their hair, abandon their traditional languages, and adopt Western customs.

Originally located in Forest Grove, Oregon, Chemawa was later moved to Salem in 1885, where it remains today. The school expanded to serve students from over 70 different tribal nations across the U.S., reflecting the federal policy of placing Native youth in off-reservation boarding schools far from their families.

The Chemawa Indian School Cemetery

A somber reminder of the school’s history is the Chemawa Indian School Cemetery, which holds the graves of at least 200 students who died while attending the school. Many of these children succumbed to diseases like tuberculosis, pneumonia, and influenza, often due to poor living conditions, malnutrition, and inadequate medical care.

Over time, the cemetery has become a site of remembrance and reflection. Though records of those buried there are incomplete, tribal families and researchers continue efforts to identify and honor the students who never returned home. In recent years, Native communities have pushed for increased recognition of these lost children, advocating for the preservation and protection of the burial site.

Conclusion

The legacy of Chemawa Indian School cannot be separated from the broader history of Native American education and federal assimilation policies. While the school has changed significantly since its founding, its past still lingers in the stories of those who attended and the silent headstones in its cemetery. By acknowledging this history and advocating for truth and healing, we take an important step toward honoring the voices of Native students—past, present, and future.

Bringing Community Together for Culture, Connection, and Renewal

The Northwest American Indian Coalition (NAIC) is excited to invite you to our Spring Gathering 2025, reconnecting with our lands, cultures, and one another. Mark your calendars and join us as we celebrate community, storytelling, and renewal.

Date: Monday, February 17, 2025
Location: Event Center on the Beach, Showcase Building, Gold Beach, Or. 
Time: 12:00 PM – 5:00 PM

What to Expect

Our Spring Gathering will be a day filled with meaningful connection, cultural sharing, and honoring traditions. Activities include:

Traditional Storytelling – Featuring renowned storyteller Earl Huitt.
Special Guest – Jack Falls-Rock
NAIC Programs – Learn about programs and projects.
Live Drumming & Songs – Experience the heartbeat of our people with drumming and songs.
Community Food – Enjoy a shared meal featuring traditional foods and local ingredients.
Discussions – Engage in discussions on land stewardship, cultural preservation, and youth education.

Why You Should Join

The Spring Gathering is an opportunity to come together in the spirit of healing, learning, and community building. It’s a space for families, elders, youth, and allies to celebrate Native culture, strengthen our connections, and plan for the future.

🌟 This event is free and open to all who wish to attend! 🌟

We look forward to seeing you there! If you have any questions or would like to contribute to the gathering, please reach out to us at contact@nwaic.org.

Our Generous Sponsors

This event is made possible thanks to the generous support of:
✨ AllCare Health
✨ Potlatch Fund
✨ South Coast Health Equity Coalition

Spread the Word!

Help us make this event a success by sharing this invitation with friends, family, and community members. Let’s come together to honor our traditions, uplift our youth, and build a stronger future.

See you at the NAIC Spring Gathering!

The Chetco River Massacre occurred on February 15, 1854, near the mouth of the Chetco River in southwestern Oregon. Here are the key details:

Background

• A settler named A.F. Miller and associates claimed land near two Cheti Indian villages in fall 1853.

• The land was already occupied by about 40 Cheti lodges.

• Miller threatened to destroy the villages if the Cheti didn't cede the ferry site to them.

The Attack

• Miller hired experienced Indian fighters from California.

• On February 15, 1854, 8-9 armed men attacked the village at daylight.

• They set fire to the village on the south bank of the Chetco.

• Villagers were shot as they fled their burning lodges.

Casualties and Aftermath

• Over 26 men and women were murdered.

• Two Cheti were burned alive in their houses when they tried to resist.

• Most victims were shot in the back while fleeing.

• The next day, lodges on the north bank were burned.

• The following day, all lodges on the south bank, except two, were destroyed.

Consequences

• Miller was arrested but later declared innocent by a justice of the peace.

• Superintendent Joel Palmer reported that "no act of a white man against an Indian, however atrocious, can be followed by a conviction."

• By 1857, the surviving Cheti were forcibly removed to the Coast Reservation.

• Miller continued to occupy the area until at least the 1870s 1, 2.

This massacre was part of a larger pattern of violence against Native peoples in the mining regions of northern California and southern Oregon during the mid-19th century 2.

U.S. Armed Forces surround Ghost Dancers led by Chief Big Foot near Wounded Knee Creek in South Dakota, demanding the surrender of their weapons. An estimated 150 Native Americans are killed in the Wounded Knee Massacre.

On December 26, 1862, 38 Dakota men were hanged at Mankato, in the largest mass hanging in U.S. history following the U.S.-Dakota War of 1862. This tragic event continues to profoundly affect indigenous communities, leaving a lasting legacy of historical trauma, injustice, and the urgent need for reconciliation and awareness surrounding the deep-seated issues faced by Native American populations in the United States.

Recommended Documentary https://youtu.be/ZLjzUNXMbhM?si=0hOGPAdqYD-q548U

Sitting Bull is killed during a confrontation with Indian police in Grand River, South Dakota.

Manifest Destiny. On December 2, 1845, the concept of Manifest Destiny, rooted in the belief that the expansion of the US throughout the American continents was both justified and inevitable, gained significant traction. Unfortunately, this expansion proved devastating to indigenous communities as it led to forced displacement, cultural assimilation, and the tragic loss of ancestral lands, disrupting the lives and traditions of Native American populations.

Recommended Documentary https://doctrineofdiscovery.org/the-doctrine-of-discovery-unmasking-the-domination-code/

Honoring Native American Heritage Day: Celebrating Resilience, Culture, and Legacy

Native American Heritage Day, observed the Friday after Thanksgiving, is a time for all Americans to reflect on and celebrate the rich cultural heritage, enduring contributions, and vibrant histories of Native peoples across the country. This day is an invitation to honor Indigenous voices, deepen our understanding of tribal history, and recognize the contributions of Native Americans to every corner of American society, from science and technology to art, agriculture, and policy.

The Importance of Native American Heritage Day

Native American Heritage Day stands as a counterpart to the National Native American Heritage Month in November, serving as a focused reminder to respect the resilience, wisdom, and ongoing influence of Native communities. Though rooted in history, this day is also about the present and future—celebrating the contributions Native Americans continue to make and acknowledging the work still needed to address the disparities and challenges facing these communities.

For many, Native American Heritage Day is a chance to go beyond mere acknowledgment, building deeper connections with Native history and culture through learning, sharing, and supporting Native-led initiatives. This understanding and respect help us to appreciate the cultural diversity within Native American communities, as each tribe carries its unique language, traditions, and customs.

Celebrating Cultural Heritage and Knowledge

Native American Heritage Day is an opportunity to celebrate the deep and ancient knowledge systems that have shaped the landscapes of the Americas for millennia. Native agricultural practices, environmental stewardship, and traditional ecological knowledge offer valuable insights into sustainability and resilience, especially in our current times of environmental concern. Native innovation—from complex agricultural systems like those of the Southwest to the sophisticated fisheries management of coastal tribes—continues to be a testament to the ingenuity and adaptability of Indigenous peoples.

Today, there is a growing movement to revitalize Native languages, many of which were nearly lost through decades of colonial policies. Language is central to cultural identity, holding within it the knowledge, worldview, and traditions of generations. Tribes across the nation have taken extraordinary steps to reawaken these languages, with language schools, digital archives, and mentorship programs helping younger generations learn and carry on their linguistic heritage.

Recognizing Native Contributions to American Life

From art to cuisine to policy, the influence of Native Americans on American culture is profound. Many foods that are central to American cuisine, such as corn, potatoes, and tomatoes, were cultivated by Indigenous communities long before European contact. Native American music, dance, and art continue to inspire and enrich American culture, celebrated in festivals, museums, and galleries across the country. Native artists, writers, and creators bring unique perspectives to their work, often challenging and expanding mainstream narratives to include Indigenous voices.

In the sciences, Native Americans have contributed to our understanding of everything from environmental conservation to astronomy. Indigenous wisdom is now recognized by many scientists and policymakers as essential to building sustainable solutions to environmental and social challenges, blending traditional knowledge with modern practices for a more holistic approach to issues like climate change, biodiversity loss, and water management.

How to Honor Native American Heritage Day

1. Support Native-Owned Businesses: Purchasing from Native-owned businesses and artisans is a way to honor Native cultures and contribute to economic development in Native communities.

2. Learn About Native History and Current Issues: Explore Native American history from Indigenous perspectives and educate yourself on contemporary issues facing Native communities, such as land rights, environmental justice, and health disparities.

3. Engage with Native Art and Literature: Native authors, artists, and creators bring invaluable stories, worldviews, and talent to American culture. Reading Native literature or attending an art exhibit by Indigenous artists can deepen your appreciation for the diversity of Native voices and experiences.

4. Support Cultural and Environmental Preservation: Many tribes work to preserve their lands, waterways, and cultural heritage through nonprofit organizations and cultural preservation initiatives. Supporting these programs helps sustain Native traditions and protect vital ecosystems for future generations.

A Day of Reflection and Respect

Native American Heritage Day is not only a time to celebrate the rich cultural tapestry of Indigenous communities but also to reflect on the resilience and contributions of Native peoples. It’s a day for learning, respect, and allyship, encouraging Americans to recognize the invaluable impact of Native Americans on the shared history, culture, and future of the United States.

As we honor Native American Heritage Day, let’s move beyond one day of acknowledgment toward a sustained commitment to understanding, respecting, and celebrating Native American cultures, histories, and contributions—ensuring that the legacies of Indigenous peoples continue to shape and inspire our nation for generations to come.

Remembering November 9, 1855: The Coast Reservation Executive Order

On November 9, 1855, President Franklin Pierce signed an executive order that established the Coast Reservation in what is now Oregon. This event marked a significant moment in the history of the Indigenous peoples of the region. The Coast Reservation, later known as the Siletz Reservation, was created as part of the United States government's efforts to forcibly remove Native tribes from their ancestral homelands and relocate them to designated areas.

The Coast Reservation was intended to hold many different tribes, including the Tututni, Siuslaw, Coos, and Alsea, among others. These tribes, each with their own distinct cultures, languages, and traditions, were uprooted and compelled to move to a place far from their original territories. This relocation was not only a loss of land but also an attempt to break the connection that Native peoples had with their sacred landscapes, traditional foods, and cultural practices.

The establishment of the Coast Reservation was a reflection of the U.S. government’s broader policy of assimilation and displacement. For many Native peoples, this reservation was not a refuge, but a place of hardship, loss, and trauma. Families were separated, cultural practices were restricted, and the very fabric of tribal life was challenged.

Despite these immense challenges, the resilience of the tribes remains evident today. The descendants of those who were forced onto the Coast Reservation have persevered, keeping their cultures, languages, and histories alive. The memory of November 9, 1855, is a reminder of the painful past, but it is also a testament to the strength and endurance of the Indigenous peoples of Oregon.

As we reflect on this history, it is important to acknowledge the ongoing impacts of these policies and to honor the enduring connection that Native peoples have to their homelands. The story of the Coast Reservation is a story of resilience, survival, and the unbroken ties between people and place.

This year's International ShakeOut Day is October 17, when millions of people worldwide will participate in earthquake drills at work, school, or home!

At 10:17 a.m. (local time) on 10/17, you can join millions of people across the world practicing earthquake safety.

While we encourage participation with everyone, you can register your ShakeOut drill for any day of the year, and drill at a time of your choice. You can also include people in multiple locations through video conferencing.

October 17, 1984 is the day that President Ronald Reagan signed Public Law 98-481, restoring federal recognition to the Confederated Tribes of Coos, Lower Umpqua and Siuslaw Indians (CTCLUSI). This was the result of a long legal, moral, and legislative battle by the Tribe

Indigenous People's Day: Honoring Resilience, Demanding Justice, and Celebrating Culture

Today, on Indigenous People's Day, we join Native communities across Turtle Island in celebrating the rich histories, cultures, and contributions of Indigenous peoples. This day is more than just a date on the calendar; it is a reminder of resilience, a celebration of cultural survival, and a call to action for justice, truth-telling, and recognition of Indigenous sovereignty.

For many Tribal citizens, Indigenous People's Day holds deep emotional significance. It is a day to uplift our voices, celebrate our traditions, and honor our ancestors who carried our ways through times of immense challenge. It is a time to tell our stories—stories that have too often been silenced—and to share the beauty of our living cultures, our traditional knowledge, and our continued stewardship of the land and waters.

However, this day also comes with a deep awareness of the controversy surrounding its shared history with Columbus Day. For years, Indigenous voices have called for an end to the glorification of Christopher Columbus, whose arrival in the Americas marked the beginning of centuries of oppression, dispossession, and violence against Native peoples. Celebrating Columbus Day ignores the atrocities committed against Indigenous communities and perpetuates harmful myths of "discovery." It is time for an honest reckoning with history—a history that must acknowledge the pain, suffering, and injustice inflicted on Native peoples, and one that must honor the resilience and strength of Indigenous nations.

By replacing Columbus Day with Indigenous People's Day, we are taking meaningful steps toward reframing history and acknowledging the truth of our experiences. This change allows us to honor the resilience of our ancestors and to highlight the ongoing strength of Native communities today. It is about shifting the narrative to reflect the true history of these lands and the critical role that Indigenous people continue to play in shaping our world. But we must go beyond symbolic gestures—we must push for systemic changes that respect Indigenous rights, uphold treaty obligations, and ensure that Indigenous voices are heard and respected in all areas of decision-making.

For the Northwest American Indian Coalition (NAIC), today is a day to come together in community—to sing our songs, share our dances, and reaffirm our commitment to the wellbeing of future generations. But it is also a day to demand justice—to call for the dismantling of systems that continue to oppress Indigenous communities, to fight for the return of stolen lands, and to ensure that our children grow up in a world that values and respects their identities. We see this day as a bridge, one that helps to heal the wounds of the past and brings us closer to a world that values and respects Indigenous sovereignty, culture, and knowledge.

We recognize that for many, this is a time of learning and reflection. It is an opportunity to support Native-led initiatives, listen to the voices of Indigenous people, and become allies in the work toward justice and equity. We encourage everyone to take time today to learn more about the history and contributions of the original inhabitants of this land and to stand in solidarity with Indigenous communities by advocating for meaningful change.

Indigenous People's Day is a reminder of the work still to be done. As we celebrate today, we remember those who came before us and those who will come after us. We invite our community and allies to join us in continuing this journey of healing, education, and action. Let us confront the painful truths of our shared history, demand justice for Indigenous peoples, and work together to build a future where all Native communities thrive.

From all of us at NAIC, we wish you a meaningful Indigenous People's Day. Together, let us celebrate the beauty and strength of Indigenous cultures, fight for justice, and continue the work for truth, recognition, and respect for Native peoples everywhere.