MOU will establish government-to-government relations between the sovereign nation and state agency



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News Release




Nov. 20, 2025

The mouth of the Hoh River at the Hoh Indian Reservation.

The Hoh River meets the Pacific Ocean on the Hoh Indian Reservation.

The Hoh Indian Tribe, Commerce sign memorandum of understanding

*MOU will establish government-to-government relations between the sovereign nation and state agency*

OLYMPIA, Wash. — The Hoh Indian Tribe and the Washington State Department of Commerce signed a historic memorandum of understanding (MOU) memorializing government-to-government relations between the Tribe and the agency. The agreement removes administrative barriers, improves communications, implements culturally appropriate data privacy and security measures, and more. Hoh Tribal Chairwoman Darlene Hollum and Commerce Director Joe Nguyễn signed the agreement in October.

“This agreement is a meaningful step forward in strengthening our government-to-government relationship with the Department of Commerce. It reflects our shared commitment to respect, collaboration, and the sovereignty of the Hoh Tribe. As we continue to relocate our village to higher ground for the safety and resilience of our people, partnerships like this ensure our voices are heard and our values honored,” said Darlene Hollum, Chairwoman of the Hoh Tribe.

The Hoh Tribe is a sovereign coastal nation located at the mouth of the Hoh River on Washington’s Olympic Peninsula. With deep ancestral ties to the land and waters of the region, the Tribe is known for its cultural resilience, environmental stewardship, and commitment to community well-being. The Hoh people have lived in harmony with the rainforest and ocean for generations, preserving traditional lifeways such as fishing, carving, and storytelling. The Tribe entered into the Treaty of Olympia with the United States on January 25, 1856, affirming its sovereign status and securing rights to fish, hunt, and gather in its usual and accustomed areas. Today, the Hoh Tribe is actively investing in sustainable infrastructure, clean energy, and climate resilience — including the proactive relocation of its village out of the tsunami and flood zone to ensure the safety and long-term viability of its community.

The MOU with The Hoh Indian Tribe is the eleventh such agreement Commerce has made with tribal governments. Commerce anticipates similar agreements with tribes within Washington in 2026.

“We are glad to enter into this agreement with the Hoh Indian Tribe. We recognize Hoh’s continued presence as a strong sovereign nation and their invaluable contributions to our state history, economy, and culture,” Commerce Director Joe Nguyễn said.

Commerce is committed to improving processes for applying for funding, streamlining and co-creating grant opportunities, and strengthening partnerships with tribal nations.

To learn more about The Hoh Indian Tribe, visit the Tribe’s website [ [link removed] ].

To learn more and follow Commerce’s work with tribal nations and communities within Washington, visit the Office of Tribal Relations webpage [ [link removed] ].

 

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Commerce Communications <[email protected]>

Amelia Lamb, (360) 995-3386, [email protected]








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