Dear Puyallup Membership,
We hope this message finds you and your families well. We share in the concerns that have been expressed regarding the recent executive orders signed by President Trump.
As your elected leaders we are, always have been and always will be committed to safeguarding the sovereignty, rights and interests of our Tribe.
Tribes and Indian people have withstood difficult times, including direct attacks on our sovereignty and our Treaty rights. It is important to understand that the federal government operates under a system of checks and balances, which provides oversight and helps mitigate potential impacts from executive actions.
Federal grants
The Office of Management and Budget has temporarily placed a freeze on federal grant awards (which is being challenged in federal court). However, programs providing direct benefits to individuals are not subject to the pause, and any payment required by law to be paid will be paid. We have been in contact with congressional members and federal agency staff, and our own staff are working to ensure Tribal programs remain funded and operational. Tribal members should know that because Tribal leadership took swift action earlier this year, Puyallup Tribal Health Authority received advanced appropriations and Chief Leschi Schools has received most of its operational funding for the year.
Birthright citizenship
We know our Tribal members have expressed concern regarding the president’s executive order regarding birthright citizenship. The Federal District Court of Washington quickly blocked this order. Regardless, Tribal members should not be concerned with citizenship status. In 1924, Congress confirmed the citizenship of all Tribal members born in the United States. The president’s executive order cannot change this.
Where we stand
We are proud to have cultivated strong relationships over time with leaders across party lines. These relationships have been built on mutual respect and understanding, ensuring our voices are heard at the highest levels.
As things are changing every day, it is important that we take the time to fully understand the legal and practical implications of executive actions and not react based on rumors or our assumptions. We urge you to contact the Tribal Council with your questions. Know that we are working for the Puyallup Tribe and our members. With your trust and support, we will keep advocating for our sovereignty, culture and community.
In service,
Your Puyallup Tribal Council
