Moving Forward With Respect at Camp Orkila

How we reviewed cabin names connected to Indigenous cultures through Tribal consultation, accountability, and ongoing relationship.

On behalf of the YMCA of Greater Seattle Senior Leadership Team and Board of Directors, I am pleased to share an update on the cabin naming process at Camp Orkila.

In the spirit of our vision—to advance equity and justice for all through Whole Person Health and transform lives through community collaboration, belonging, achievement, and social connection—we are committed to aligning our programs and places with our mission, core values, and equity statement. At Camp Orkila, our commitment includes honoring the legacies, histories, cultures, and communities connected to the land on which we serve.

Background/Why We Paused 

During the COVID Pandemic, members of the Camping and Outdoor Leadership Advisory Board appropriately raised important questions about whether we have records of permissions to use cabin names and symbols connected to Indigenous cultures. We took this question to heart and paused to consider the core issue: that for far too long, institutions have made assumptions on such matters instead of asking, risking the unauthorized use of Indigenous names and symbols. Acting with cultural sensitivity, care, and respect means being intentional, seeking guidance from those most impacted and moving forward with humility. In reviewing our history, we learned that Y’s intention in using the names and symbols was to recognize and honor the cultures of Indigenous people in our community. As we reviewed our practices, we also recognized that there was limited historical documentation about how or when certain cabin names and symbols were selected and whether impacted Tribal Nations were involved. Without clear records, we committed to doing our due diligence, creating a documented process, and ensuring that the impacted Tribal Nations had the opportunity to have a clear and respected voice in this process.

The Approach We Chose 

Guided by our values, the YMCA Board of Directors adopted an approach to consult with the Tribal Nations connected to those names and symbols —and to do so through formal consultation and a documented process leveraging the expertise of trusted Tribal and Equity and Justice consultants. 

To support this work, the YMCA of Greater Seattle retained The Whitener Group (our Tribal Consultant) and Dr. Robin Martin, President & CEO of Navigating Courage (our Equity and Justice Executive Consultant), to ensure outreach and consultation were thorough and respectful. While consultation was underway, signage was posted at camp acknowledging the concern and communicating that a formal process was underway. 

What We Did and What We Heard 

We are deeply grateful for the time, wisdom, and care shared throughout this process—especially from Tribal leaders and communities, the Camping and Outdoor Leadership Advisory Board, the Board of Directors, The Whitener Group, and Dr. Robin Martin.

Most importantly, this experience reinforced something we believe strongly: trust is built through consistency, humility, and follow-through. Our campers, families, and friends in the Tribal community deserve a YMCA that listens first, centers relationships, and walks alongside its community.

This work does not end with the conclusion of this process. The YMCA will continue showing up, learning, and strengthening community collaborations in ways that respect and honor Indigenous voices and reflect our values in action. We also remain committed to deepening relationships with Tribal communities through ongoing engagement and invitations to YMCA community events, membership, and programs.

Our Commitment Going Forward 

We are deeply grateful for the time, wisdom, and care shared throughout this process—especially from Tribal leaders and communities, the Camping and Outdoor Leadership Advisory Board, the Board of Directors, The Whitener Group, and Dr. Robin Martin. 

Most importantly, this experience reinforced something we believe strongly: trust is built through consistency, humility, and follow-through. Our campers, families, and friends in the Tribal community deserve a YMCA that listens first, centers relationships, and walks alongside its community. 

This work does not end with the conclusion of this process. The YMCA will continue showing up, learning, and strengthening community collaborations in ways that respect and honor Indigenous voices and reflect our values in action. We also remain committed to deepening relationships with Tribal communities through ongoing engagement and invitations to YMCA community events, membership, and programs.

Looking Ahead: Future Naming Opportunities 

As we continue investing in Camp Orkila and broader camping and outdoor leadership experiences, we recognize there may be future opportunities to honor the individuals and communities who have contributed to our work and impact. Any future naming will follow an intentional process rooted in our mission, equity statement, and values guided by our Board of Directors.