Rafael Queahpama was sworn in to the Confederated Tribes of Warm Springs Tribal Council as the new Warm Springs Chief on May 20, according to KWSO Warm Springs Community Radio. The appointment fills one of three lifetime chieftain seats on the 11-member Tribal Council — positions that represent the treaty rights and cultural heritage of the Warm Springs, Wasco, and Paiute peoples of the Confederacy.
A Lifetime Seat
Unlike the eight elected positions on the Tribal Council — which represent the Agency, Simnasho, and Seekseequa districts — chieftain seats are lifetime appointments, carrying both political authority and deep cultural significance for the Confederacy's member tribes.
Queahpama's acceptance of the role followed a period of consultation with district elders and members. District Representative Carlos Calica confirmed in mid-May that Queahpama had accepted the call to serve.
The swearing-in ceremony on May 20 was a formal civic moment. A more traditional installation ceremony, rooted in the cultural protocols of the Warm Springs people, is planned for Saturday, May 30, at the Simnasho Longhouse.
Significance for the Community
The Simnasho community — located in the northern reaches of the Warm Springs Reservation — has deep historical roots as one of the original gathering places for the Warm Springs people. Holding the installation at the Simnasho Longhouse underscores the cultural weight of the chieftain role.
The Queahpama name carries its own historical resonance in Warm Springs, with Frank Queahpama Sr. having served previously as Warm Springs Chief in earlier decades of the tribal government.
Community members are encouraged to watch KWSO 91.9 FM or wsnews.org for updates on Saturday's ceremony at the Simnasho Longhouse.