Politics & Common Sense — Column by John Spencer
We are deeply fortunate to be part of a story as ancient and enduring as the land itself. For countless generations, the Coeur d’Alene Tribe, or Schitsu’umsh, has called this breathtaking region home. Their lives have been intricately woven into the rivers, lakes, and mountains that define this landscape.
While many recognize the tribe for its thriving casino, the Coeur d’Alene Tribe is so much more than a gaming enterprise—it is a living testament to resilience, cultural richness, and a profound connection to the land.
Like many others, when we first arrived in this area we visited the Casino. Though we are not gamblers, we enjoyed the shows and dinners. Yet, as we delved deeper, we discovered the true heart of the Coeur d’Alene Tribe—a heritage that is both inspiring and humbling.
Our journey of discovery led us to the painful history of broken promises, beginning with Governor Isaac Stevens, the first governor of the Washington Territory. The 1855 Treaty of Hellgate, signed with the Coeur d’Alene, Salish, and Kootenai tribes, ceded millions of acres to the U.S. government. While the tribes believed they were securing their rights to their lands and resources, the treaty marked the beginning of a profound loss. It is a chapter in our nation’s history that serves as a solemn reminder of the injustices faced by Native Americans.
Yet, despite these challenges, the Coeur d’Alene Tribe has remained steadfast as the keepers of a vibrant cultural heritage and the guardians of this land. Their story is one of resilience, unity, and an unwavering commitment to preserving their identity and traditions. Long before settlers arrived, the Schitsu’umsh thrived in this abundant landscape, establishing permanent villages along the Coeur d’Alene, Saint Joe, Clark Fork, and Spokane Rivers. Their ancestral homeland, spanning nearly five million acres, was a place they called “where the old ones walked.”
The first white people to encounter the Coeur d’Alene were French trappers and traders, who named them “Coeur d’Alene” meaning “heart of the awl” in recognition of their sharp trading skills. But to the tribe, this land was far more than a resource—it was the heart of their identity, a sacred trust passed down through generations.
Today, the Coeur d’Alene Tribe’s cultural contributions continue to inspire. Their language, Schitsu’umsh, carries the wisdom of countless generations, while their oral traditions preserve stories of resilience, leadership, and connection to the earth. Through art forms like beadwork, basket weaving, and carving, they express their identity and share it with the world. They are an integral part of the fabric of North Idaho and our nation.
Each year, the tribe hosts events like the annual Powwow, where drumming, dancing, and storytelling bring people together to celebrate their heritage. These gatherings are not just for tribal members, they are an open invitation to the broader community to learn, appreciate, and connect. This year’s Powwow, on Saturday, March 22, is a celebration of culture and unity that everyone is encouraged to attend.
The Coeur d’Alene Tribe’s relationship with the land is both spiritual and practical. To them, the lakes, rivers, and forests are not merely resources; they are relatives, deserving of care and respect. This philosophy has made them leaders in environmental stewardship. From restoring wetlands to protecting endangered species, their conservation efforts have had a profound impact on the region.
Their work to improve water quality in Lake Coeur d’Alene and the Spokane River benefits not only the tribe, but all who live in and visit North Idaho. By blending traditional knowledge with modern science, they have become a model for sustainable environmental management.
While the Coeur d’Alene Casino and golf club are visible symbols of their economic success, the tribe’s contributions extend far beyond. They are pillars of philanthropy and partnership in North Idaho, supporting local charities, schools, and community projects. Their commitment to the well-being of all residents, tribal and non-tribal alike, reflects their values of generosity and leadership.
As we recognize the lasting legacy of the Schitsu’umsh, let us do more than remember—we must actively honor their history, educate ourselves, and pass their stories to future generations. By engaging in their cultural traditions and supporting their community, we not only show respect, but also strengthen the fabric of North Idaho. In doing so, we preserve its beauty, resilience, and unity, ensuring that their heritage continues to thrive for generations to come.
