Suquamish & the HEAL Act: Advancing Environmental Justice Together
The Suquamish Tribe is proud to be part of Washington State’s movement toward environmental justice through the Healthy Environment for All (HEAL) Act. This law (RCW 70A.02) was created to reduce environmental health disparities and ensure that every community, especially Tribal and historically underserved communities, has a voice in decisions that impact our air, water, land, and health.
What Is the HEAL Act?
Passed in 2021, the HEAL Act is Washington State’s first environmental justice law. It requires seven state agencies to:
- Center environmental justice in decision-making.
- Invest equitably in communities most impacted by pollution and health disparities.
- Engage meaningfully with communities, especially Tribes.
To learn more, visit the Washington State Department of Ecology’s HEAL Act page.
Why It Matters
Environmental justice is about more than laws. It’s about protecting our people, our resources, and our future. Whether you’re worried about toxins in the water, wildfire smoke, food access, or preserving Suquamish traditions, your perspective is part of the solution.
We invite you to walk alongside us on this journey. Fill out the survey. Attend an event. Share your voice.
Together, we are building a healthier, more just future for all generations of Suquamish people.
How Does the HEAL Act Affect the Suquamish Tribe?
For the Suquamish Tribe, environmental justice is not new. It’s our tradition; it’s our culture. The HEAL Act formalizes and supports the values we already uphold:
- Sovereignty & Self-Determination: The HEAL Act acknowledges the unique rights of Tribes and encourages agency-Tribal coordination.
- Protection of Traditional Resources: From clam beds to forests, the land and water hold cultural, spiritual, and practical importance.
- Health Equity: The Act supports efforts to reduce health disparities caused by environmental harm.
We’re using funding from the HEAL Act to:
- Conduct a community-driven Environmental Justice Assessment
- Conduct an internal governmental Environmental Justice Assessment
- Host educational events this spring with food, prizes, and raffle giveaways
- Invite YOU to shape the future by completing our community survey
Your Voice Matters—Take the Survey!
Community input is at the heart of this work. That’s why we’re asking all Tribal members, community residents, and Suquamish employees to complete a short survey about environmental concerns and priorities in Suquamish.
Join Us at Upcoming HEAL Events!
We’re hosting a series of community events throughout the spring focused on environmental justice, climate, health, and culture. These events are FREE and open to all.
What to expect:
- Delicious food
- Door prizes and raffles
- Educational workshops and speakers
- Space for community conversation
For more information, please contact Suquamish Tribe Community Health: