Seattle Local Organizing Committee and Puyallup Tribe of Indians announce historic Seattle 26 Host City Legacy Supporter’s Agreement

Mazvita Maraire, SeattleFWC26 Writer

TACOMA, WA. - With the historic background of the sləha mural, the Puyallup Tribe of Indians, and SeattleFWC26, the local organizing committee made history of their own when they signed a one-of-a-kind agreement Tuesday afternoon. With the agreement, the Puyallup Tribe joins SeattleFWC26 as the Official Legacy Supporter for all Seattle 26 World Cup activities and activations. The agreement marks the first time in the history of the World Cup Tournament that an indigenous people have entered into an agreement with any host city.

“Today we make history, and we could not be more pleased or honoured to have the Puyallup Tribe of Indians as the Seattle 26 Official Legacy Supporter during the next men’s World Cup. This is a first-of-its kind cultural partnership whereby the Puyallup Tribe will tell their story, in their own voice, in the spirit of fostering a better understanding of people, “ said SeattleFWC26 CEO Peter Tomozawa. “It is the first time in history that an indigenous people will become a supporter of a World Cup host city. This will not only put them on the global map, it will further reinforce their ambition to share their culture and celebrate humanity.”

The Puyallup Tribe is a federally recognized sovereign nation of more than 5,000 members. The Puyallup People have lived along the shores of what is now called Puget Sound since time immemorial. The renowned sləhal mural depicted the traditional bone games that have been part of the Puyallup Tribe’s rich culture since time immemorial. The games would be played for fun, used for ceremonial purposes and to settle arguments.

“The Puyallup Tribe of Indians thinks globally, and there is no bigger international stage than the World Cup. It is important for us to share our values, traditions and culture, and we will do that by supporting the FIFA World Cup 26 Local Organizing Committee. This isn’t just about the Puyallup Tribe, or the Tribes across the state of Washington, “said Puyallup Tribe of Indians Council Chairman Bill Sterud. “It is about all people. We are known for being generous and welcoming to all who enter our lands, and this cultural partnership will help us extend that spirit to the beautiful game and the world. Since time immemorial, the Puyallup Tribe has competed with canoe racing and the traditional bone games. There is no better opportunity to share our culture, our traditions, our businesses, and our past, present, and future than the largest single sporting event on the planet.”

“This agreement puts our Tribe on the global map,” said Matt Wadhwani, Financial and Economic Development Officer for the Puyallup Tribe of Indians. “Not only does it give us the opportunity to show the world how far we’ve come, but it also brings invaluable exposure to our thriving businesses and enterprises we are developing for the future.”

EXTENSIVE PARTNERSHIP

The historic agreement will permit the Puyallup Tribe of Indians to collaborate with SeattleFWC26 on several massive initiatives throughout the next several years. This will allow the tribe the opportunity to share their story, in their own voice, on the global stage. This aligns with SeattleFWC26’s vision that while the FIFA World Cup™ is coming to Seattle in 2026, this tournament will bring Washington to the world and will find all ways possible to share the things that matter most to Washington residents.

On hand to witness the historic moment, with Puyallup Tribal Council Chairman Bill Sterud, were elected members of the Tribe’s governing body: Vice Chairwoman Sylvia Miller and

Council Members Annette Bryan, James Rideout, Anna Bean, Monica Miller, and Fred Dillon. Heritage staff and students from Chief Leschi Schools performed a ceremonial song and dance to commemorate the occasion while 16-year-old Cecilia Dillon preceded the announcement with a prayer in the Puyallup Tribe’s Lushootseed language. Chief Leschi Schools language teacher David Sway-la Duenas provided a translation of the prayer.

Host cities for the FIFA World Cup 26™ are the first to be able to engage with strategic partners to include local commercial supporters in the tournament. SeattleFWC26 has created 10 specific involvement opportunities and looks to bring on nine additional Host City Supporters.

About the Puyallup Tribe of Indians.

The Puyallup People have lived along the shores of what is now called Puget Sound since time immemorial. The Puyallup Tribe of Indians is a sovereign nation of more than 5,000 members and one of the largest employers in Pierce County. It serves its members and community with generosity and is committed to building a sustainable way of life for future generations. Learn more about the Puyallup Tribe.