Memorandum set to bring new era of understanding and cooperation between Squaxin Island Tribe and City of Olympia

The leaders of the Squaxin Island Tribe and City of Olympia gathered today at noon to sign a memorandum of understanding (MOU) designed to shepherd in a new era of cooperation between the peoples here.

Some 30 people watched as  Mayor Cheryl Selby and Chairman Kris Peters made brief remarks, and then signed and countersigned two copies of the  memorandum. 

Several members of the Tribe also spoke, some in Lushootseed, to offer greetings.  All members of the Olympia City Council were present along with several, perhaps all, members of the Tribal council. 

Following the signing, people moved inside for the unveiling of a land-acknowledgment plaque that was installed in the main foyer of city hall.  

The text of the MOU document was not available immediately but no one present objected to its terms.  

After the public ceremonies concluded, the mayor, chairman and several members of the council retreated to a private luncheon.