Government Affairs

“We use a strengths-based approach rooted in Indigenous knowledge to educate and advocate for policies and funding that impact Native people wherever they reside.”
Esther Lucero (Diné),
President and CEO

Our Government Affairs department has a strong reputation built on decades of experience in policy, distinguishing us as a leader in Indigenous healthcare advocacy. Today, we ensure the federal trust and treaty responsibility is honored and upheld by uplifting Native voices and advocating for increased services, resources, and better policy decision-making on issues that affect American Indian and Alaska Native people.

Seattle Indian Health Board was the first urban Indian health program to provide congressional testimony, and since then, we have advocated on behalf of the urban American Indian and Alaska Native communities through outreach, education, and partnerships with tribes, communities, and government officials.

Seattle Indian Health Board also leads advocacy for our Tribal Epidemiology Center who conducts research and evaluation, collects and analyzes data, and provides public health service for urban American Indian and Alaska Native communities. To elevate Native voices, Seattle Indian Health Board engages in local, state, and federal policy to discuss the unique health and social needs of Native people.