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Abigail Echo-Hawk
Executive Vice President , Seattle Indian Health Board, Director, Urban Indian Health Institute
Professional Background
Abigail Echo-Hawk, MA, stands at the forefront of public health and research dedicated to indigenous communities. As the Chief Research Officer at the Seattle Indian Health Board (SIHB) and the Director of the Urban Indian Health Institute (UIHI), she leads a talented team of researchers, evaluators, and epidemiologists who are committed to empowering Indigenous voices and decolonizing data. Abigail's work primarily focuses on restoring Indigenous scientific knowledge systems, an essential mission that resonates deeply within communities of urban American Indian and Alaska Native (AI/AN) populations.
Under Abigail's leadership, the UIHI operates as a vital arm of the Seattle Indian Health Board, serving as one of the 12 tribal epidemiology centers (TECs) funded by the Indian Health Service (IHS). While other TECs emphasize regional collaboration, the UIHI is uniquely positioned to address the health needs of AI/AN populations in urban settings across the United States, catering to approximately 1.2 million AI/AN individuals as identified in the 2010 U.S. Census. The institute equips Urban Indian Health Organizations (UIHOs) with necessary support that ranges from managing public health information systems to responding to public health emergencies. Such efforts are crucial in addressing health disparities and advancing public health initiatives tailored for urban Indigenous communities.
Education and Achievements
Abigail Echo-Hawk obtained her Master of Arts degree in Policy Studies from the University of Washington, where she gained deep insights into the intricate relationships between policy-making and community health outcomes. Her educational journey began at the University of Washington Bothell, where she laid the foundation for her commitment to making a positive impact on public health, particularly for marginalized communities.
Throughout her career, Abigail has consistently championed the integration of traditional knowledge and cultural practices into contemporary health initiatives. Her previous roles underscore her expertise in building partnerships and fostering collaboration among academic institutions and health agencies. For instance, she served as the Co-Director for the Partnerships for Native Health at Washington State University Spokane. Furthermore, her tenure as the Associate Director at the University of Washington involved overseeing pivotal research programs focusing on health equity.
Notable Contributions
Abigail's efforts extend beyond her current positions at SIHB and UIHI; she has made significant contributions to local governance through her work as a former Chair at the Seattle Women's Commission, where she advocated for the rights and wellbeing of women and underrepresented communities. Additionally, her role as Co-Director at Civic Roots demonstrated her dedication to civic engagement and community development. This multifaceted career path reflects her commitment to fostering equitable health outcomes and empowering Indigenous communities through innovative research and policy action.
The UIHI, under Abigail's guidance, plays a crucial role in investigating diseases of concern, managing disease prevention and control programs, and communicating vital health information across various jurisdictions throughout the nation. By coordinating with other public health authorities, the center strives to bolster public health resources available to urban AI/ANs, ushering in a new era of culturally appropriate health care practices.
Achievements
- Decolonizing Data Initiatives: Leading efforts towards making health data systems more relevant and accessible for indigenous populations, emphasizing autonomy and self-determination.
- Public Health System Management: Overseeing programs dedicated to disease prevention and health promotion, ensuring that urban AI/AN communities have access to critical health information and services.
- Collaboration with Urban Indian Health Organizations: Strengthening partnerships with various UIHOs to provide comprehensive health and social services to urban AI/AN residents, thus enhancing the health outcomes in these communities.
- Research Program Development: Spearheading ongoing research studies aimed at addressing the unique health challenges faced by urban AI/AN populations, providing evidence-based insights that inform public health policy.
Future Directions
As Abigail Echo-Hawk continues her impactful work at the Seattle Indian Health Board and the Urban Indian Health Institute, she remains committed to expanding the reach and effectiveness of public health initiatives tailored for urban American Indian and Alaska Native communities. Through her dedication to Indigenous scientific knowledge systems and innovative public health strategies, Abigail is paving the way for a healthier, more equitable future for all AI/AN individuals residing in urban environments.