"We pause to acknowledge that Santa Clara University sits on the land of the Ohlone and the Muwekma Ohlone people, who trace their ancestry through the Missions Dolores, Santa Clara, and San Jose. We remember their connection to this region and give thanks for the opportunity to live, work, learn and pray on their traditional homeland. Let us take a moment of silence to pay respect to their Elders and to all Ohlone people past and present."
What is a Land Acknowledgment?
A Land Acknowledgement 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. Land acknowledgements do not exist in a past tense, or historical context: colonialism is a current ongoing process, and we need to build our mindfulness of our present participation. It is also worth noting that acknowledging the land is Indigenous protocol (Information from http://www.lspirg.org/knowtheland)
How to Use?
Campus Stakeholders are encouraged to use either one of the approved land acknowledgement versions listed below and that the acknowledgement take place at the beginning of the event:
Short Version
Spanish Version
Tomamos un momento para reconocer que la Universidad de Santa Clara ha sido fincada en tierra del grupo indigena Ohlone y Muwekma Ohlone, quien traza su ascendencia por las Misiones Dolores, Santa Clara, y San José. Recordamos su conexión en esta región y damos gracias por tener la oportunidad de vivir, trabajar, aprender, y poder rezar en su tierra natal. Tomemos un minuto de silencio como respeto a los Mayores y toda persona Ohlone del pasado y del presente.