The termination of the Siletz Tribe was a dark chapter in American history. In 1954, the federal government passed the Western Oregon Termination Act, which ended the federal recognition of the Siletz Tribe and effectively stripped tribal members of their tribal status, lands, and resources. This act was part of a larger policy of Indian termination, which aimed to assimilate Native Americans into American society.
On December 17, 1975, Congress considered the Siletz Restoration Act, which had the support of Oregon Senator Mark O. Hatfield. During 1975–1976 people whose tribes had been terminated testified about the effects of termination on their people.
In 1977, the Siletz Tribe was recognized and restored; and in September 1980, President Jimmy Carter signed Public Law 96–340, which created a 3,063-acre reservation for the Confederated Tribes of Siletz Indians of Oregon. The Confederated Tribes of Siletz Indians successfully regained federal recognition and sovereignty.
The 46th annual Restoration event honors the resilience and perseverance of the Siletz People. It is a reminder of the unwavering determination Tribal leaders fought to gain federal recognition to reclaim the Siletz People’s rightful place in the nation’s history and future. Restoration is a celebration of the Confederated Tribes of Siletz sense of identity, dignity, sovereignty, rich culture and it provides a foundation for future generations to build upon.
The STAHS Board attended the 46th annual Restoration event to field question’s about Ghii Dee-Ne Dvn, A Place for the People cultural center and museum and sell merchandise to assist the operations of STAHS, which in turn supports and promotes the culture of the Confederated Tribes of Siletz Indians.
STAHS is grateful for our volunteers (Maryellen Ben and Majalise Tolan) that assisted during the event. Additionally, thank you to everyone that stopped by to support STAHS and say hello. It was significant to see individuals from our community come together in support of the Restoration of the Confederated Tribes of Siletz Indians.