Clark County Historical Museum Speaker Series: The Chinook Struggle for Recognition

Clark County Historical Museum’s 2022 Speaker Series continues on at 7 p.m. Oct. 6 with “A Promise Not Yet Fulfilled: The Chinook Struggle for Recognition” presented by Sam Robinson, Chinook Indian Nation citizen and vice chair. The event will occur in-person at the Clark County Historical Museum, 1511 Main St., Vancouver. Doors open at 5 p.m. General admission is $5; seniors and students are $4; children under 18 are $3; and the evening is free for CCHM members, veterans and active-duty military personnel.

In 2001, the Chinook Nation rejoiced as the federal government finally recognized the Chinook Indian Nation as a sovereign entity of its own lands. This celebration was short lived as only a few months later the government rescinded its decision, leaving the nation bereft of its right to determine its own future and barred from the resources that are crucial to its survival. Unfortunately, this moment is only one of many injustices played out since the Treaty at Tansy Point in 1851.

In this talk, Robinson explores the history of the Chinook people and their continued fight for tribal recognition. He’ll discuss the importance of recognition for indigenous nations, like the Chinook, and provide an insight into where their status stands today. For more information, contact the museum at 360-993-5679 or outreach@cchmuseum.org.