Sage Indigenous Law Center 

Empowering Native Communities

Sage Indigenous Law Center (SILC) is a Native-led nonprofit committed to understanding and honoring the unique histories, languages, cultures, and traditions of the tribes in the regions we serve. We recognize the devastating impact of U.S. policies on Native communities, including the disruption of languages, spiritual practices, cultures, lands, and ways of life. Despite the historical and intergenerational trauma these policies have caused, Native communities continue to demonstrate remarkable resilience.

While we cannot assist every individual, we prioritize cases that support these goals. Case acceptance is determined by staff availability and the merits of each situation.

Our Mission

Serving Spokane, Washington, and surrounding areas, SILC provides culturally informed legal assistance to Native and Indigenous families and communities. Our mission is to protect Native families, preserve cultural connections, and support Indigenous communities through accessible legal guidance and representation.

What We Do

  • Provide legal advice and brief services to Native and Indigenous individuals.

  • Support families navigating tribal courts and state court systems.

  • Offer full legal representation in Indian Child Welfare Act (ICWA) dependency cases when needed.

  • Work to prevent unnecessary family separation through pre-petition legal advocacy.

  • Engage with tribal and urban communities to strengthen awareness and understanding of Native rights.

At SILC, we are dedicated to helping Native families stay together, supporting the preservation of culture, and creating systemic change in the legal landscape for Indigenous communities.

Protecting Families. Preserving Heritage. Defending Rights.

Congratulations to Gonzaga Law’s 2026 Legal Foundation of Washington Goldmark Equal Access to Justice Intern, 3L, Emma Wiechert!

Emma was selected for this 10-week paid summer internship created in honor of LFW’s Second President Charles Goldmark and hosted by a legal aid organization in Washington State. Emma spent her summer internship with Sage Indigenous Law Center (SILC), in Spokane, Washington, supporting SILC’s work to protect Native families and prevent unnecessary family separation.

“This summer, I had the opportunity to work alongside SILC assisting Native families,” Emma said. “I gained valuable experience with the Indian Child Welfare Act (ICWA), researched pre-filing advocacy programs, and helped draft motions and proposed orders. I also assisted with guardianship matters and learned more about the tribes and Native communities in Eastern Washington. I saw firsthand how early, culturally responsive legal advocacy can help keep Native children connected to their families, communities, and cultures. I am incredibly grateful to the Legal Foundation of Washington for this opportunity and to SILC for welcoming me into its work. This experience has strengthened my commitment to advocating for children and families in the future.”

“We are deeply grateful to the Legal Foundation of Washington for supporting the next generation of legal aid advocates,” said Juliana Repp, Executive Director of SILC. “Emma brought compassion, curiosity, and a genuine commitment to serving Native families to her work with SILC. Her contributions supported our efforts to prevent unnecessary family separation, and we are grateful to have had her as part of our team.”

Interested in collaborating or partnering with SILC?

Please provide your details, and we will reach out promptly. We are eager to connect with you!