Hy’shqe and welcome to the homelands of the Lummi Nation.

Dear Tribal Leaders, honored guests, ATNI members, presenters, volunteers, and friends,

Hy’shqe and welcome to the homelands of the Lummi Nation.

On behalf of the Lummi Indian Business Council and the Lummi people, it is my honor to welcome you to the Affiliated Tribes of Northwest Indians Mid-Year Convention hosted by the Lummi Nation, May 18–21, 2026.

We are grateful to gather together on our ancestral homelands along the shores of the Salish Sea, where our people have lived since time immemorial. These waters, lands, and villages continue to shape who we are as Lhaq’temish people — the People of the Sea. Our connection to one another, to our culture, and to our responsibilities as Tribal Nations remains strong, and we are proud to share this place with all of you.

As Tribal leaders and advocates, we gather not only to discuss policy and the future of Indian Country, but also to strengthen relationships, uplift our communities, and continue the work of protecting Tribal sovereignty for generations to come. The work before us is important, and gatherings such as this remind us that we are strongest when we stand together.

This year’s gathering also marks an important milestone for the Lummi Nation as we celebrate the opening of our Secure Withdrawal Management and Stabilization (SWMS) inpatient facility on May 17^th. Shoqwelya’ Lhaolh-Ew ‘Xw represents our continued commitment to wellness through creating pathways to healing in support of those who seek recovery from alcohol or other substances. This facility is the realization of a long-standing vision that will serve our people in their time of need and a powerful symbol of hope for the future.

We are honored to host the Youth ATNI Summit and Coastal Jam also occurring on May 17^th, bringing together young leaders, families, and communities in celebration of culture, connection, and the future of our Nations. On Monday evening, May 18th, we look forward to welcoming everyone to Lummi Nation Culture Night, featuring a community dinner and Lummi Canoe Family Protocol, where we will share songs, teachings, and the spirit of our people.

While you are here, I encourage you to take time to experience the beauty of our homelands, reconnect with relatives and friends, and reflect on the shared responsibility we carry as Indigenous leaders and communities throughout the Northwest.

Thank you for joining us at Lummi Nation. We wish you safe travels, meaningful conversations, and a memorable time together.

With respect and gratitude,

Tony Hillaire, Chairman

Lummi Nation