World Cup Brings Indigenous Culture to the Forefront in Pacific Northwest

With the World Cup making its way to the Pacific Northwest, Indigenous communities in the region are seizing the moment to share their culture with soccer fans from around the globe.

Native peoples in the Seattle area have been welcoming visitors through traditional ceremonies, live music, and cultural showcases — all while using the international spotlight to highlight the deep history tied to the land on which the games are being played.

The massive global audience that the World Cup brings has created a rare and meaningful opportunity for Indigenous voices to reach people who might otherwise never encounter their traditions or stories.