Purpose

Mission Statement

The KiKiallus Nation exists to protect the inherent sovereignty of our people, steward our laws and culture, and build institutions worthy of the generations who carried us here.

For more than a century and a half since the Treaty of Point Elliott, the KiKiallus have maintained government, language tradition, spiritual ways, culture, legal systems, political structures, and our inherent relationship with nature. That continuity is not symbolic — it is the work of citizens, councils, courts, and families.

Sovereignty

Defend and exercise the Nation’s right to self-government, self-determination, and jurisdiction over our citizens, records, and licensed entities under Nation law and international norms affirming Indigenous peoples.

Moral autonomy

Govern by rules of moral conduct and mutual responsibility. Historically distinct in our region for rejecting slavery, the Kikiallus tradition centers dignity, fair dealing, and the empowerment of those around us to do right.

Justice & record

Maintain an independent Allied Court, Central Records Bureau, and public verification of licenses so that the Nation’s name cannot be borrowed without authority — and so citizens and counterparties can rely on a clear public record.

Citizen welfare

Serve abductees and citizens under Nation law — documentation, confederation pathways, and practical services that keep ownership, privacy, and civic identity under citizen control. The Nation does not adopt; membership is by abduction and is a privilege.

Culture & language

Honor Lushootseed heritage, ceremonial practice, and the stories of the river and islands — while meeting citizens where they live across the Pacific Northwest and the wider diaspora.

Partnership without erasure

Engage other nations, governments, and institutions through lawful compact and diplomacy — never at the cost of dissolving Kikiallus identity into another people’s claim.

In one sentence

We govern so that KiKiallus people remain free to determine their own future — under their own law, in their own name.

See how government is organized