Indigenous Knowledge for the Next Generation
This month, Setting Sun Circle continued investing in future generations by sharing Indigenous knowledge, storytelling and leadership with youth and educators across Washington.
We joined educators from across the region at the Effective Teaching Institute, hosted by the Muckleshoot Indian Tribe's Adult and Higher Education Department. Our education, research and graphic novel teams introduced educators to our growing collection of classroom resources and shared a behind-the-scenes look at our upcoming graphic novel, "The Downwinder."
During a discussion about the graphic novel, Co-Creative Director Tokala Tatum explained that one of the story's main characters has water-based superpowers because the Yakama are "water people" — a reminder that Indigenous stories are rooted in culture, place and generations of knowledge. This theme was carried forward with an educators' screening of our latest film, "The River Remembers."
Through our Thriving Communities grant, in partnership with the American Indian Health Commission, we screened "The River Remembers" for more than 200 InterTribal youth at the 2026 Native Youth Generational Leadership Summit, hosted by the Lower Elwha Klallam Tribe. The film sparked thoughtful conversations with students about stewardship, resilience and the responsibility each generation carries for those yet to come.
Our team also spent time presenting to the Lummi Summer Youth Program where more than 200 youth explored careers in filmmaking, art and research while learning about Setting Sun Circle's vision for our future home in downtown Bellingham. A cohort of youth from the program have joined our team in the office to further expand their knowledge in this work. Together, we celebrated the importance of Indigenous-led storytelling and the power of Native voices to shape the future.
Whether we're engaging youth, supporting educators or creating new educational resources, every step helps ensure Indigenous knowledge and stories continue to inspire future generations.
“Coming Home” with Setting Sun Circle
Last year marked an important milestone: 10 years of creating, sharing and educating through Indigenous stories. As we reflect on this journey, we are filled with gratitude for the community that has supported and shared in this work. Whether you have attended a gathering, watched one of our films, listened to a podcast or shared our work with others, you have helped lay the foundation for our next chapter: opening our doors in 2027.
Setting Sun Circle and West Shore Canoe Family join Bellingham Mayor Kim Lund at the Downtown Sounds summer concert series kick off.
As we prepare to join the downtown Bellingham arts district, we welcome everyone to join the circle. Setting Sun Circle and West Shore Canoe Family kicked off the Downtown Sounds summer concert series with song, dance and a heartfelt invitation to the community to visit our new home when doors open next year.
Where We’ll Be
Nature of Writing Summer Speakers Series
Setting Sun Circle is partnering with North Cascades Institute and Village Books for a special Nature of Writing summer series featuring two books that highlight the role of Indigenous knowledge and leadership in protecting and restoring Mother Earth. Join us at one or both events.
“The Earth Said Remember Me” by Jason Dove Mark
July 16 at 6 pm | Village Books, Fairhaven
RSVP for this gathering for an exciting new book featuring interviews with Lummi Nation Tribal Members – including some of our Setting Sun Circle team – and more!
“Guardians of Life: Indigenous Knowledge, Indigenous Science, and Restoring the Planet” Photography by Kiliii Yüyan
July 18 | Lhaq ’temish-ew’xw ets’e Xwlemi’ House of Healing
Setting Sun Circle team member Free Borsey will join a panel discussion with National Geographic Explorer and photographer Kiliii Yüyan. RSVP today!
Seeds of Change
Young & Indigenous Podcast Episode 2: Goodbye Mindport
Setting Sun Circle’s Young & Indigenous podcast Episode 2 features Tallie Jones – former executive director of Mindport Exhibits. Tallie shares about growing up in Whatcom County, her evolving understanding of Indigenous history and the role education plays in shaping public awareness. She also reflects on closing a meaningful chapter at Mindport Exhibits and the conversations that led to the building being gifted to Setting Sun Circle. Listen on our website, Spotify or Apple Podcasts.
What is Darrell Reading?
Executive Director Darrell Hillaire is known as a prolific reader. We’re often asked, “What is Darrell reading right now?” We’re excited to start offering a sneak peek into his library in our monthly newsletter.
Darrell is currently reading "The Earth Said Remember Me: How to Revive Our Memories and Restore the Planet" by Jason Dove Mark. He's currently watching "Respect the Rez: Inside the Lummi Blackhawks’ Title-or-Bust Season” – a four-part, 40-minute documentary by Cascadia Daily News that Setting Sun Circle is proud to support!