This resolution honors Frank Jr., a prominent member of the Nisqually Tribe, for his lifelong advocacy for tribal treaty rights and environmental preservation. It acknowledges the historical context of his life, including the erosion of treaty rights due to state regulations and the depletion of natural resources that sustained tribal communities. Frank's early experiences, including his protests against unjust fishing regulations and his leadership in "fish-ins," played a crucial role in raising public awareness about the infringement of tribal rights. His efforts culminated in the landmark United States v. Washington case, which affirmed tribal fishing rights as the supreme law of the land.
The resolution also highlights Frank's significant contributions to the Northwest Indian Fisheries Commission and his collaborative work in negotiations that benefited both tribal and nontribal interests. Throughout his life, Frank received numerous awards for his dedication to justice and environmental stewardship, including the Presidential Medal of Freedom. The resolution concludes by recognizing his legacy, which continues through his family, and commemorates his likeness being placed in the National Statuary Hall to represent Washington State in the U.S. Capitol.