The Power of Connection: Digital Skills for a Stronger Lummi Nation

“Technology isn’t just about computers—it’s about creating access to jobs, education, healthcare, and staying connected with family,” says Joe Hillaire, the lead Digital Navigator for Lummi Nation, a Tribal land located along coastal northern Washington state. Joe is helping the Lummi Indian Business Council (LIBC) build a Digital Navigator program by providing skills training and facilitating access to digital tools for residents of the Lummi Reservation. The Lummi people have deep ties to the surrounding waterways, which are central to their way of life and fishing traditions. As is the case with many rural areas, reliable internet access and digital literacy are significant barriers to opportunity. While connection is essential to preserving cultural traditions passed down through generations, it is also crucial for navigating today’s world. Bridging that gap is a delicate balance.