At Tattoo Kiss, it is deeply important to me to honor the Native people of this land and contribute to Native Land Portland support efforts. I recognize that the land we call home, like much of the United States, was forcibly taken from Native American tribes during European settlement. While I cannot undo the past, I am committed to supporting the Indigenous peoples who continue to survive and thrive today by contributing to efforts aimed at cultural preservation, education, and healthcare.
Native Tribes of Portland: Acknowledging Native Land History
Tattoo Kiss operates on the traditional territories of several Native American tribes, including the Multnomah, Chinook, Clackamas, and other peoples who have lived in the Portland region for thousands of years. These communities maintained a deep connection to the land long before the arrival of settlers. Today, the Native populations in this region continue to work toward cultural preservation and reclaiming their land rights, with the Chinook Indian Nation still seeking federal recognition to this day.
The primary landowners of the Portland area were the Clackamas, Stl’pulmsh (Cowlitz), Cayuse, Umatilla, and Walla Walla peoples. Many of these tribes are now represented by the Confederated Tribes of Siletz Indians and the Confederated Tribes of Grand Ronde, who work tirelessly to preserve their cultural heritage and secure their future. You can learn more about the Indigenous history of the land you’re on through resources like Native Land, which provides maps and information about traditional territories.
How You Can Support Native Land Portland Communities
Supporting Native American communities can take many forms, and even small efforts can have a significant impact. Here are a few ways you can contribute to Native Land Portland Support, focusing on education, economic empowerment, healthcare, and cultural preservation.
- Support Federal Recognition for Tribes: One crucial issue is the ongoing fight for federal recognition by tribes like the Chinook Nation. Supporting this effort means helping tribes gain legal recognition, access to vital resources, and the rights they have long been denied.
- Native American Youth and Family Center (NAYA): NAYA provides a wide array of services to support Native families, including education, health programs, housing assistance, and cultural events. You can support NAYA by donating, volunteering in their youth programs, attending their annual fundraising events, or helping with community development initiatives.
- Oregon Native American Chamber: This organization works to economically empower Native entrepreneurs and businesses. You can support this effort by shopping at Native-owned businesses, mentoring emerging Native business owners, or donating to programs that help sustain Native economic growth.
- Support Native Health Initiatives: Health disparities in Native American communities, including mental health and access to culturally responsive care, are serious issues. You can engage with organizations that focus on improving healthcare for Native people, whether through donations, advocacy, or volunteering.
- Friends of the Columbia Gorge: This organization partners with Native tribes to protect culturally significant lands around the Columbia River Gorge. Supporting them helps preserve these lands for future generations while honoring their cultural importance to local Native peoples.
A Commitment from Tattoo Kiss
Though I am a small business just getting started, as owner of Tattoo Kiss, I pledge to donate a percentage of my annual profits to support the original owners of this land. I am committed to making a positive impact on the community, and I encourage others to take meaningful steps toward helping preserve the rich culture and history of Native American tribes.
By acknowledging the past and actively working toward a better future, I hope to foster a more inclusive, respectful, and supportive community for the Indigenous peoples of Portland and beyond. Together, we can contribute to their ongoing efforts to preserve their culture, protect their lands, and secure their rights.
Conclusion
At Tattoo Kiss, honoring the original caretakers of this land is not just about recognition, but also about action. I invite you to join me in supporting Native American communities, both through education and direct efforts. Whether through donations, volunteering, or simply choosing to shop at Native-owned businesses, your support can help preserve the culture, history, and rights of Indigenous people today and for generations to come.
By giving back, we can all play a role in creating a future where Native American communities thrive and their rich cultural heritage is celebrated.