As the visionary behind Longhouse for the People, Naiome Krienke articulates a world of Indigenous sovereignty built on collaboration and mutual aid within the broader community of the Olympic Peninsula. Her vision is to restore Indigenous presence here, on her ancestral territory, through the construction of a traditional longhouse and restored cultural practices. This project is already well underway, supported by other members of the community, supporters from other Indigenous nations, and Black, POC, and white settler allies.

“We’re bringing a native presence back. We must uplift and cherish Indigenous voices, rights, and wellness,” Naiome explains. “The longhouse will be used for educational purposes and learning about the Indigenous peoples who once flourished here. It will be open to everyone to learn about the culture and history of the Indigenous peoples of this region. The longhouse will also be a place for intertribal cultural events, such as singing, dancing, and storytelling…a living museum, and a spiritual healing center.”

~Naiome Krienke

The Longhouse For the People project lives on land held by the Tamanowas Foundation, an Indigenous led organization located on 12 acres the Olympic Peninsula in Quilcene, WA. The Longhouse for the People is fiscally sponsored by Well Organized, a 501c3.