The Confederated Tribes of Warm Springs marked a significant moment in tribal leadership last week when Rafael Queahpama was formally sworn in as Warm Springs Chief during a ceremony at the Tribal Administration Building on the Warm Springs Reservation.
As Warm Springs Chief, Queahpama holds a lifetime seat on the Tribal Council — one of the most enduring leadership positions within the tribal government structure. The Confederated Tribes of Warm Springs, which include the Warm Springs, Wasco, and Paiute peoples, govern a reservation stretching across Jefferson and Wasco counties in North Central Oregon.
Traditional Ceremony on May 30
While the official swearing-in has already taken place, a traditional installation ceremony is scheduled for Saturday, May 30, at the Simnasho Longhouse. Simnasho is a remote community located in the northern part of the Warm Springs Reservation, and the longhouse there holds deep cultural and ceremonial significance for tribal members.
The public nature of the ceremony reflects the community's desire to honor the transition of leadership in a manner rooted in tradition, separate from the formal governmental proceedings.
Tribal Council Structure
The Warm Springs Tribal Council includes elected members from the three constituent tribes as well as chiefs who hold their positions for life according to tribal custom. This dual structure — combining democratic elections with traditional hereditary and cultural leadership — is a defining feature of governance for the Confederated Tribes.
Queahpama's swearing-in comes during a busy period for the Tribes. Earlier this month, Cascades East Transit launched a new Route 21 bus service providing transportation to remote parts of the reservation, including Simnasho and the newly re-opened Kah-Nee-Ta Hot Springs Resort. The Tribes have also recently completed more than 40 energy efficiency projects in partnership with Energy Trust of Oregon.
The Madras Bulletin will have more coverage of the May 30 traditional ceremony as it becomes available.