The Path Forward: Native Leadership in an Evolving Pacific Northwest

Event Description

In a moment when our society faces deep questions around inclusion, equity, and intentional communication, Seattle CityClub is honored to host a Civic Cocktail diving into Native leadership and community-driven influence in the Pacific Northwest on Wednesday, November 5, 2025, at The Collective Seattle. Doors open at 5:30 p.m. for reception and networking, and the formal program runs from 6:30 to 8:00 p.m., with a short intermission.

Segment One – Leadership through an Indigenous Lens
This discussion invites panelists to share how Native modes of governance, relational worldviews, and stewardship traditions can inform and revitalise our civic systems. What does Indigenous leadership look like in modern municipal, regional, and tribal settings? How can these principles guide the design of more equitable and responsive government?

Segment Two – Representation, Enterprise & Civic Inclusion
The conversation will turn to where power often shows up—business, events, policy-making—and ask: how can Native communities build equitable access to major platforms, like global events, and support Native small business growth in these spaces? How can the broader PNW community partner meaningfully to uplift tribal representation in economic and civic realms?

Moderated by Colleen Echohawk, an enrolled member of the Kithehaki Band of the Pawnee Nation and Upper Athabascan people, entrepreneur, housing advocate, and longtime leader for Indigenous community equity, this evening is designed to center Native voice, share tangible strategies, and connect allies to action.

Step into a conversation grounded in respect, rooted in history, and focused on shared futures.

Panelists

• To be announced

Moderator

• Colleen Echohawk, Chief Executive Officer, Community Roots Housing

Networking

Ticket holders are encouraged to arrive early, grab a bite, and engage with fellow civic enthusiasts! From 5:30 to 6:30 p.m., enjoy lite appetizers (included with your ticket) at The Collective Seattle, and connect with the Seattle CityClub community before the evening’s conversation begins. Sip on a craft cocktail or mocktail and engage in meaningful discussions, before settling in for an evening of insight and engagement.

Speakers and Moderator

Colleen Echohawk has over 20 years of experience as an executive leader, small business owner, and community organizer. This includes serving as Executive Director of Chief Seattle Club, where she led the effort to create nearly $100 million in new affordable housing in Seattle, and CEO of Eighth Generation, a Native-designed art and lifestyle brand. She is an active member of the board of trustees for both Seattle Foundation and Seattle Colleges.

Thanks to our Civic Cocktail partner:

About Seattle CityClub

Seattle CityClub is a 40-year-old nonpartisan, civics-focused nonprofit, providing a platform for insightful and educational conversations that include a diverse range of perspectives.

About Civic Cocktail

Civic Cocktail connects elected and community leaders with the public for lively conversations about important issues facing our region. Whether you’re new to the Pacific Northwest, a self-described “civic nerd,” or looking to meet people engaged in their communities, your evening at this beloved program is sure to be friendly, fun, and fascinating. Civic Cocktail’s welcoming and conversational tone is inspired by our Dialogue Across Differences initiative. We hope you can join in person, where the conversation happens over tasty bites and festive libations, but you can still enjoy the experience wherever you are by watching virtually.

Watch Seattle CityClub's Latest Civic Cocktail: