Native Works

Hey y’all,

It’s undeniable that Seattle has a vibrant Native culture that can be found in museums, streets names, and public spaces throughout the state. In fact, the name of Seattle actually comes from Chief Si’ahl (pronounced “See-ahlth”) which makes it the only major city named after a Native chief.

One of Seattle’s most popular destination, Pike Place Market, has a long history of using Indigenous artwork without consent. Vendors at Pike Place Market have historically used Native artwork without permission or consideration of Native culture, thus Native Works was founded in 2017. The nonprofit preserves Indigenous culture and offers access to full-time employment by hiring Chief Seattle Club members as apprentices at its Pike Place Market booth.

All of their apprentices are either homeless, have a criminal history, and/or struggling with addiction and mental health issues. Approximately 50 percent of the apprentices haven’t worked in 5+ years and need significant support. The program provides them with a mentor and case manager to receive wraparound services including housing assistance, mental health counseling, substance abuse assessment and treatment, and financial literacy. Native Works and Chief Seattle Club are working together to end homelessness.

Native Works also recently introduced Sovereignty Farm, a seed-to-table program that provides agricultural and service work opportunities to Native community members and supplies the traditional foods available at Chief Seattle Club. Whether it’s giving your time, resources, donating financially, or shopping locally, let the giving begin!

Cheers,

Tiana