To Whom It May Concern,
As a college community, we acknowledge that we are situated on the traditional lands of the Maidu people, as well as other Indigenous peoples. We recognize the importance of honoring and respecting the sovereignty, culture, and history of the Indigenous communities who have lived on and cared for these lands since time immemorial.
As such, we offer the following guidelines for acknowledging the Indigenous peoples of this area:
Recommended: We encourage all members of the college community to use a formal land acknowledgment at the beginning of events, meetings, and ceremonies. This acknowledgment should include the traditional names of the Maidu people and the specific territory they are from, as well as the names and territories of any other Indigenous peoples who may have been displaced or impacted by colonization in this area.
Optional: We understand that some members of the college community may not feel comfortable or confident in using a formal land acknowledgment. We support individuals in choosing their own way of acknowledging the Indigenous peoples of this area, whether through informal acknowledgment or other means.
Not Recommended: We discourage the use of a generic or superficial land acknowledgment that does not accurately reflect the Indigenous history and presence of this area. It is important to note that a land acknowledgment is not the only way to honor and support Indigenous peoples.
We also encourage members of the college community to engage in ongoing education, allyship, and action to support Indigenous rights, sovereignty, and cultural revitalization, including initiatives that specifically support the Maidu people and other local Indigenous communities.
We recognize that an acknowledgement policy is just one step towards decolonization and reconciliation. We are committed to continuing to learn, listen, and act toward a more just and equitable future for all.
Sincerely, Leo O’Neill
Vice President
Native American Club, Butte College
