Community Connections: The United Indians of All Tribes Foundation (UIATF)

The United Indians of All Tribes Foundation (UIATF) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to serving the Indigenous community of Seattle and beyond. Founded in 1970 as part of a movement to reclaim Indigenous land and sovereignty, UIATF remains committed to strengthening Native culture, fostering economic empowerment and providing essential social services. From its headquarters at Daybreak Star Indian Cultural Center overlooking the Salish Sea, UIATF offers programs supporting Native youth, families and elders, its work spanning cultural preservation, education, workforce development, housing support and advocacy — always centering Indigenous traditions and values.  

UIATF’s mission is to provide vital social, cultural and educational services to Native people while strengthening Indigenous identity and community. The organization’s Community Services Division includes the Labateyah Youth Home, providing transitional housing and support for youth experiencing homelessness, along with employment assistance, an elder’s program and cultural programming. Its Family Services Division offers home visiting, foster care support and early childhood education to strengthen Native families. UIATF also hosts cultural celebrations such as the Seafair Powwow, a vibrant annual event in mid-July open to all people, and bringing together Indigenous dancers, drummers and artists from across the region.  

A critical part of its mission is cultural preservation and community engagement through the arts, which is why the partnership with the Seattle Symphony is so important. By working with the Symphony, UIATF amplifies Native voices while introducing audiences to influential Indigenous artists. It also aligns with the organization’s vision of educating the public about Indigenous histories, advocating for Native representation, and creating spaces where Indigenous people see their cultures respected and celebrated.  

Community Partner Testimony: “Our partnership with the Seattle Symphony is incredibly meaningful to the United Indians of All Tribes Foundation and the community we serve. It allows us to amplify Native voices and share the richness of Indigenous traditions with a wider audience. Music is a powerful way to connect with our community, to tell our stories and to heal. This collaboration provides our community with access to world-class artistry while also showcasing the incredible talents of Indigenous artists like Pulitzer Prize-winning composer Raven Chacon (Diné). It’s a way for us to celebrate our heritage, inspire future generations, and ensure that Indigenous culture is respected and valued by all. Through our partnership with the Seattle Symphony, we’re using the power of music to uplift Indigenous voices and create a more connected community.” 

The United Indians of All Tribes Foundation (UIATF) is one of more than 60 partners in the Seattle Symphony’s Community Connections program, which provides complimentary tickets to nonprofit organizations across the Puget Sound region. 

UP NEXT: Community Partner Key to Change Studio, a music youth education organization serving South King County, presents its 2025 Spring Salon (May 10 & 11, Illsley Ball Nordstrom Recital Hall). A Seattle-based 2024/2025 Community Stages Fund Awardee, Camp Jitterbug celebrates its 25th Anniversary with a Jump Show Session celebrating Black vernacular jazz and swing-based dances (May 23, Recital Hall). Finally, a free Community Concert with the Seattle Symphony in Burien is presented in collaboration with Mount Rainier High School, and celebrates the music and cultures of Southeast Asia (May 27, Highline Performing Arts Center).