My name is Melissa Young, and my Indian name is Boni, given by my mom’s family in Fort Hall, Idaho. I’m the daughter of Albert Wayne Young (Slick) and Evangelina (Angie) McGill (Christopher McGill), and I come from the Young, Alvarez, Perry, Tendore, Black, and Pogree families. In 2019, I adopted my daughter, Miyah-J Larkin, one of my greatest blessings here on this crazy plant. 

I grew up in Wyoming and Idaho before moving to Tulalip in 1997. I attended Tulalip Elementary, MMS, and was part of the first classes at Heritage High School, graduating in 2003. Growing up here, I felt welcomed while also learning to find my place in the community.

My interest in Lushootseed first began when Heritage opened and I took language classes with Tony Hatch and Toby Langen. Years later, while working at TELA, I reconnected with the language through Thomas Williams and by hearing Natosha Gobin’s kids pray in Lushootseed. Their example encouraged me to apply for a position in the Lushootseed Department.

Since joining the department, I have worked with kids of all ages. I’ve learned from many inspiring teachers and found my passion teaching our youngest learners, ages birth to three. I love helping them build a natural connection to the language early on. I also use Lushootseed at home with my daughter and share words with my family whenever I can.

My hope is to see Lushootseed used more in everyday community life, with families learning together and feeling proud of our language. I’m especially interested in creating family learning kits, conversation groups for teachers, and projects that connect elders with youth.

Working in the Lushootseed Department has shaped who I am. Even if my role is small, I’m committed to helping the language grow so future generations, in hopes that we will never lose touch with it.

My new favorite saying is:

“I would rather hear you say it wrong in Lushootseed then say it right in English”

Melissa Young
Lushootseed Teacher Assistant
[email protected]
(360) 716-4479