Colville Tribes respond to reported bans on graduation regalia

The Confederated Tribes of the Colville Reservation issued a press release May 12 responding to reports that some central Washington school districts are refusing to allow tribal students to wear traditional regalia during graduation ceremonies. The tribe stated that any prohibition of culturally significant items, such as beaded caps or eagle feathers, violates Washington state law and disrespects tribal heritage.

Citing RCW 28A.600.500 and Washington Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction bulletin #028-25, the tribe emphasized that public schools may not prevent Native students from wearing regalia or other culturally significant objects. Chairman Jarred-Michael Erickson called on schools to respect Colville students’ right to express their heritage and asked families to alert the Colville Business Council if any student is denied that right.