CTUIR

The Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation (CTUIR) is a federally recognized Native American tribe in the Pacific Northwest, formed from the Cayuse, Umatilla, and Walla Walla peoples. The tribe is based on the Umatilla Indian Reservation in northeast Oregon, along the Umatilla River near Pendleton.

Historically, the three bands inhabited the Columbia River Plateau. In 1855 the United States and the Cayuse, Umatilla, and Walla Walla signed treaties ceding most of their traditional lands in exchange for the reservation and the right to fish and gather on remaining lands. The CTUIR continues to assert tribal sovereignty and manages natural resources, fisheries, and cultural resources on and off the reservation.

Government and membership: The CTUIR is governed by a Tribal Council under a constitution and bylaws. Enrolled members are those with Cayuse, Umatilla, or Walla Walla lineage. The tribe provides services in health, education, housing, and economic development, and operates programs for environmental resources and cultural preservation.

Economy and culture: The CTUIR operate the Wildhorse Resort & Casino near Pendleton, as well as the Tamastslikt Cultural Institute, which preserves and presents the history and culture of the Cayuse, Umatilla, and Walla Walla peoples. The tribe supports language revitalization programs for Umatilla and Walla Walla languages and maintains partnerships in fisheries and land management.