Tell us a little bit about yourself. 

I am Suzanne Sailto, a Snoqualmie Tribal member and an elected member of the Snoqualmie Tribal Council. I was born in Toppenish, WA, but I lived everywhere nationwide due to my father being in the military. I have lived in Italy, Germany, Virginia, New Jersey, Texas, and Georgia. I graduated from Lakes High School, and I attended a two-year program at Ever Increasing Word Ministries. I have three children, who are all young men, and four grandchildren. I am an advocate for the YMCA, Encompass, and the Elder Advisory Board. I enjoy family time, volunteer work, and going to church.  

What inspired you to want to join the Indigenous Advisory Council and what do you hope to achieve?  

What inspired me to join the Indigenous Advisory Council is the willingness of the Mayor and City Council to create a pathway for us to be in the room and at the table. In my opinion, that’s the biggest issue we face in Indian country – not being awarded the opportunity. I hope to foster relationships created through this platform.  I hope we listen, first and foremost, and then learn what is important to our nation, city, and organizations. It starts with us leaders being open and willing to hear each other and translate out to others. I thank the Lord that we are willing to be teachable and create solutions on any given topic of discussion. 

What is something that you bring to this role that will help the group work together?

What I bring to this role is the willingness to be teachable. I have been both one who is encouraged and one that encourages. I am a very positive person, and I bring laughter and create space to allow vulnerability and safety.