Twana Machado
Tribal Law & Policy
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About
B.A of American Indian Studies from University of Washington.
M.L.S of Indigenous Peoples Law, University of Oklahoma, current.
Experience
University of Oklahoma, College of Law
- Master of Legal Studies in Indigenous Peoples’ Law — Expected Fall 2024
University of Washington, Seattle
- Bachelor of Arts in American Indian Studies — June 2022
Foster School of Business, University of Washington
- Tribal Gaming and Hospitality Management Certification — Summer 2018
Relevant Coursework
- Federal Indian Law and Policy | Tribal Courts
- Criminal Jurisdiction in Indian Country | Indian Gaming Law
- Legal Research in Indian Country | Natural Resource Management
- Civil Regulatory Jurisdiction in Indian Country | The Indian Child Welfare Act
Professional Experience
Squaxin Island Tribe Family Services
Victim of Crime Act Program Manager — May 2022–Present
- Lead the development of culturally informed policies and programs to support victims of crime, emphasizing collaboration with tribal departments and external organizations.
- Ensure compliance with federal and state regulations while fostering trust-based relationships with tribal communities.
- Host cultural events to strengthen community ties and promote traditional values.
- Identify service gaps and create comprehensive solutions to enhance program impact.
Fort Belknap Indian Community
Water Rights Settlement Act Advocacy — 2019–2023
- Supported the successful passage of the Water Rights Settlement Act of 2019 by drafting advocacy materials, managing social media campaigns, and providing strategic communications.
- Built partnerships with tribal leadership, legislative representatives, and community stakeholders to advance tribal sovereignty.
- Tracked and analyzed budget expenditures, ensuring accountability and efficient resource allocation.
Seattle Indian Health Board
Communications & Advocacy Specialist — 2020–2021
- Advocated for equitable resource distribution during the COVID-19 pandemic through crisis communications, press releases, and media statements.
- Highlighted systemic disparities impacting urban Native populations to federal and state authorities.
Pyramid Communications, Seattle, WA
Indian Country Intern — September 2019–June 2020
- Rebranded social and print media for the Puyallup Tribe, emphasizing accurate representation of tribal identity.
- Partnered with tribal leadership to develop strategic messaging for community engagement.
University of Washington, Independent Study
Feeding Our Sovereignty Initiative — November 2019–November 2020
- Conducted research to support food sovereignty grant proposals for the Squaxin Island and Skokomish Tribes.
- Developed projects promoting tribal land ownership, intergenerational knowledge-sharing, and sustainable resource management.
- Proposed innovative solutions to address nutritional deficiencies and foster economic independence through traditional practices.
Skills
- Tribal Relations & Government-to-Government Consultation: Extensive experience working collaboratively with tribal governments and navigating treaty rights and legal frameworks.
- Policy Development: Proven ability to create policies that align with cultural values and legal requirements.
- Leadership & Program Management: Expertise in leading cross-functional teams, building partnerships, and driving results.
- Communication & Advocacy: Strong public speaking, media management, and legislative advocacy skills.
- Cultural Resource Management: Experience in natural resource conservation and cultural heritage projects.
- Technical Proficiency: Microsoft Office Suite, data visualization tools, and program management software.
Education
Currently pursuing a Master of Legal Studies in Indigenous Peoples law through Univerity of Oklahoma.
