WHEREAS, The Affiliated Tribes of Northwest Indians (ATNI) are representatives of and advocates for national, regional, and specific tribal concerns; and
     WHEREAS, ATNI is a regional organization comprised of American Indians/Alaska Natives and tribes in the states of Washington, Idaho, Oregon, Montana, Nevada, Northern California, and Alaska; and
     WHEREAS, The health, safety, welfare, education, economic and employment opportunity, and preservation of cultural and natural resources are primary goals and objectives of the ATNI; and
     WHEREAS, The Indigenous people of the lands later known as the Americas existed long before Christopher Columbus sailed in 1492; and
     WHEREAS, A true and accurate account of the native population of the Northwest lands is necessary to clarify the historical record and acknowledge the culture, language, traditions, and daily life customs of Washington's Indigenous inhabitants; and
     WHEREAS, Having the citizens of our state and nation recognize and celebrate the heritage of Indigenous peoples respects their history and unites all peoples together;
     NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, That the Washington State Senate recognize and remember the Indigenous peoples who have contributed greatly to both the State of Washington and the United States of America; and
     BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, That copies of this resolution be immediately transmitted by the Secretary of the Senate to the Affiliated Tribes of Northwest Indians.