We recognize that we are living and working as guests on the unceded lands of the Tongva people, known as Tovaangar, and in relationship with the many Indigenous nations across what is now called California.
As a statewide organization, our work extends across multiple territories, including lands stewarded by the San Manuel Band of Mission Indians, Kumeyaay, Ohlone, Miwok, and many other tribal nations. We honor all First Nations people whose lands we move through, work within, and build community across.
We acknowledge the severe trauma and inequity created through the deliberate theft and occupation of these lands. This includes forced treaties and sales, displacement, and the loss of countless Indigenous lives.
We also recognize that Indigenous communities are not of the past. They are present, sovereign, and continuing to lead, resist, and care for their people and lands.
We are guided by the understanding that our people have always moved with the land. We have always followed the animals, the seasons, and the medicine. There is nothing new about this way of being. Our ancestors traveled, gathered, and built relationships across territories long before borders were imposed.
As a Two Spirit and Native led organization, we understand our work in this same way. We follow the footsteps of our ancestors as we move across lands, carrying responsibility, relationship, and care. The work we do today is part of a longer story. It is medicine we are building not only for our communities now, but for those who come after us.
This acknowledgment is not symbolic. It informs how we practice, how we build, and how we show up in community. We are accountable to the lands we are on and the relatives we serve across California and throughout the United States.
We call for continued action toward Indigenous sovereignty, land return, and the inclusion of Indigenous voices in all decisions regarding land, health, and community care.
Learn more about the Tongva people and ongoing efforts:
