Michelle Vassel

Michelle Vassel is the tribal administrator (CEO) of the Wiyot Tribe. She also serves on the Board of Directors of Cooperation Humboldt and was the Assistant Director at Northern California Indian Development Council. She also served as Executive Assistant to the City Manager for the City of Fortuna, CA.

Making ‘Land Back’ a reality through an Indigenous community land trust

How the Wiyot people and local organizers are using an “honor tax” system to advance Indigenous self-determination and sovereignty.

June 26, 2026