[A picture containing font, graphics, screenshot, design Description automatically generated]MEDIA ALERT FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: March 12, 2024 MEDIA CONTACT: Derek Nguyen, Marketing and Communications Director, Washington State Historical Society, 253-317-1273 derek.nguyen@wshs.wa.gov<mailto:derek.nguyen@wshs.wa.gov> Symposium: The Boldt Decision at 50 will explore the impact of the landmark legal decision at the Washington State History Museum [A white sign with black text and trees Description automatically generated] What: – On February 12, 1974, US District Court Judge George Boldt rendered what some consider one of the most significant court decisions issued during the twentieth century involving Native rights. To commemorate the fiftieth anniversary of the Boldt Decision, WSHS is a full day of special programming that explores the history of this ruling that served as an affirmation of Tribal fishing rights and sovereignty. Guests can also view the original, handwritten 1854 Treaty of Medicine Creek and the exhibition Usual and Accustomed Grounds: The Boldt Decision at 50<https://www.washingtonhistory.org/exhibit/boldt-decision/>. Who: The Washington State History Museum<https://www.washingtonhistory.org/>, the Billy Frank Jr. National Wildlife Refuge, John C. Hughes, Dr. Laurie Arnold, the Nisqually Tribe, the Puyallup Tribe of Indians, the Squaxin Island Tribe, and the Steilacoom Tribe. When: Saturday, March 30, 2024. 10:00 to 11:00 AM: Intergenerational programming exploring traditional salmon stories and the role of fishing for Puget Sound tribes facilitated by the Billy Frank Jr. National Wildlife Refuge. 12:00 to 1:30 PM: Luncheon and lecture featuring state historian John Hughes, which will provide an overview of the Boldt Decision itself and situate the role of Judge George H. Boldt within this broader historical context. Boxed lunches are available to purchase as part of the registration process. 2:00 to 3:30 PM: Panel conversation exploring the Boldt Decision and its legacies for tribal communities. Moderated by Dr. Laurie Arnold of Gonzaga University, this panel conversation will include representatives from the Nisqually Tribe, the Puyallup Tribe of Indians, the Squaxin Island Tribe, and the Steilacoom Tribe who will discuss the range of ways that Boldt impacted Tribal life, both positive and negative. 3:30 to 5:00 PM: Informal book signing will allow program participants to connect with panelists and purchase copies of relevant historical scholarship. Where: The Washington State History Museum – 1911 Pacific Ave, Tacoma, WA 98402 Additional Information: Registration is required and includes general admission to the museum. Free for members, $14 adults, $11 students, seniors, and military. More information at: https://www.washingtonhistory.org/event/boldt-decision/ ### About The Washington State Historical Society The Washington State Historical Society partners with our communities to explore how history connects us all. The Society's most visible activity, the Washington State History Museum, is located in downtown Tacoma on Pacific Avenue among a thriving cultural scene. The museum features interactive permanent exhibitions about Washington's past in the Great Hall, unique rotating exhibitions highlighting the Society's collections, and dynamic feature exhibitions. It hosts events and programs on a wide range of historical topics. The WSHS also offers curricula for teachers and statewide educational support, as well as consultation, support, and resources for museums and heritage organizations across the state. Derek Bradfield Nguyen Director of Marketing & Communications He/Him Washington State Historical Society 1911 Pacific Avenue, Tacoma, WA 98402 253-317-1273 Become a member! WashingtonHistory.org [signature_1659308159]<https://www.facebook.com/historymuseum>[signature_2711349858]<https://twitter.com/HistoryMuseum>[signature_1875158670]<https://www.instagram.com/washingtonhistory/>[signature_332059078]<https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCZRXAl-JqixtE7toeX4BTrg/videos?view_as=subscriber>