Native Issues
Tribal Governance
Jun 23, 2025

Umatilla Tribes honor 170th anniversary of Walla Walla Treaty


June 23, 2025

The Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation commemorated the 170th anniversary of the 1855 Walla Walla Treaty during their annual Treaty Day celebration on June 13, according to Underscore Native News. Events included a parade, featuring floats and horses and tribal citizens in regalia, along with a Veteran’s Memorial Program, exhibits, lunch and a formal Treaty Day program.

Jeanine Gordon, special assistant to the president for Native American Outreach at Whitman College and CTUIR citizen, served as grand marshal. Gordon emphasized the treaty’s lasting impact, saying, “We are the treaty.” CTUIR General Council Vice Chairman Michael Johnson highlighted the importance of preserving treaty rights for future generations. The event was the first Treaty Day celebration since 2023.

We provide the independent reporting that non-Native, extractive outlets often overlook. We give our communities the context and the facts they need to make informed decisions.

As a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, we exist to illuminate tribal government decision-making for everyone who cares about transparency about Native issues. Because the consequences of restricted press freedom affect our communities every day, our trauma-informed reporting is rooted in a deep, firsthand expertise. Every gift helps keep the fire burning. A monthly contribution makes the biggest impact.