Know the Land

What is a Land Acknowledgment?

A Land Acknowledgment is a formal statement that recognizes and respects Indigenous Peoples as traditional stewards of this land and the enduring relationship that exists between Indigenous Peoples and their traditional territories.

Why do we recognize the land?

To recognize the land is an expression of gratitude and appreciation to those whose territory you reside on, and a way of honoring the Indigenous people who have been living and working on the land from time immemorial. It is important to understand the long standing history that has brought you to reside on the land, and to seek to understand your place within that history. It is also worth noting that acknowledging the land is Indigenous protocol. – http://www.lspirg.org/knowtheland

The Tongva were the first inhabitants of Santa Monica. We acknowledge that The Braid sits on the traditional homelands and territories of the Tongva peoples. It was also the site of trade, travel, gathering and healing. The lands still serve as home to tribal members today.