Michael Khus-Zarate

Michael’s lifelong dedication to cultural revitalization, environmental protection, and community education deeply informs his leadership as Vice Chair of the Coastal Band of the Chumash Nation.

Michael currently serves on the board of the Chumash Heritage National Marine Sanctuary (CHNMS). He also served on the Congressional Advisory Council on California Indian Policy for federally unacknowledged tribes and played a key role in establishing the Carrizo Plain National Monument, where he now chairs the Native American Advisory Council.

Raised on California’s central coast, Michael became active in the Chumash community through weekend visits to the encampment at Humqaq (Point Conception), where he joined his mother, Pilulaw Khus, in resisting the construction of an industrial liquefied natural gas facility. After serving in the Marines, he returned to live full-time at the traditional village in Gaviota, established by members of the Brotherhood-of-the-Tomol. There, alongside Pilulaw, community members revived Chumash ceremonies and cultural practices.

Holding an advanced degree in education and a secondary (high school) teaching credential, Michael spent much of his career as an educator. He leads seasonal ceremonies as Bear Clan Elder, including those during the Summer and Winter Solstices.