Voices from the Land of the Colville in the heart of Washington State, amidst the landscapes that have cradled the Colville Tribes for millennia, The Citizens emerge as profound storytellers through song. This native performance group from the Confederated Tribes of the Colville Reservation embodies the resilience and cultural depth of their people, whose roots extend deeply into the history of the Columbia and Kettle Rivers region.

​

The Colville Tribes, known for their nomadic heritage prior to the mid-19th century, transitioned through eras marked by the arrival of non-Indians and missionaries, leading to a complex history of land negotiations and cultural preservation efforts. Amidst these changes, the Confederated Tribes of the Colville Reservation were established in 1938, encompassing twelve bands, including the Colville, and embodying a collective spirit of unity and survival​​.

Today, The Citizens carry forward the legacy of their ancestors, whose lives were intricately tied to the cycles of nature and the rhythms of the land. Their music is a bridge to the past, a celebration of the enduring strength of the Colville people, who have navigated the challenges of history while retaining their connection to tradition and community.

​

Through their performances, The Citizens invite audiences into a sacred narrative, one that honors the memory of those who walked these lands for over 10,000 years. Their songs are more than melodies; they are the echoes of history, the stories of a people who have withstood the test of time and continue to thrive on their ancestral lands, now encompassing 1.4 million acres in Okanogan and Ferry Counties​​.

​

Welcome to a world where history resonates in the present, and the songs from the beginning of time continue to inspire and unite.