- Details
- By Chez Oxendine
- Economic Development
The Suquamish Tribe and Port of Seattle have signed a new memorandum of agreement (MOA), establishing partnerships on economic development, environmental protection, and other shared priorities.
The agreement was celebrated at a January 8, 2025 ceremony at the Port of Seattle headquarters. The event featured Indigenous drumming, tribal speakers and traditional gift exchanges.
The MOA outlines plans for regular communication, environmental stewardship, and creates a policy committee to coordinate efforts between the port and tribe. The committee will work to develop “intergovernmental advocacy” through annual meetings and long-term cooperation.
Leonard Forsman, chairman of the Suquamish Tribe, said the agreement strengthens a longstanding relationship with the Port of Seattle to ensure it remains strong. The relationship, initially born out of the port’s obligation to the tribe’s treaty rights, has expanded to include economic collaboration and more in the time since.
“This agreement lays a blueprint for present and future work,” Forsman told Tribal Business News. “This is a path forward for us to make sure that we’re being heard and keeping track of what’s going on with each other.”
One of the architects of the MOA is Port of Seattle President Toshiko Hasegawa, who took up the mantle at the start of 2025. Hasegawa came to the Port presidency following years as a Port council member, during which she fostered continued collaboration with the Suquamish tribe. As she steps into leadership at the Port, Hasegawa said those efforts have culminated in “unprecedented government-to-government relationships.”
“This is a new beginning. This agreement is a commitment,” Hasegawa told the South Seattle Emerald. “It’s a representation of intentionality - of moving forward in economic development, mutual support, and clear communication with each other.”
The MOA focuses on preserving existing fishing rights, salmon recovery, and collaboration on economic development. Potential projects include incorporating tribal fisheries into cruise ship operations and environmental restoration work.
The Port aims to integrate tribal government involvement throughout its operations, according to Port’s Executive Director Stephen Metruck. In comments to the Emerald, Metruck called the MOU a chance to “advance our shared values for sustainable and equitable economic development and enhancement.”
The agreement means a seat at the table for the Suquamish Tribe, ensuring a shared vision that represents everyone, Forsman said.
“The waters and natural resources behind us are integral to our culture, spirituality, and way of life,” he said. "This is about ensuring our voices are heard, our resources are protected, and our community thrives."
