"Even with acknowledgment, full reparations are impossible. Nothing can compensate for land and language lost, communities in crisis, and generations of lost cultural knowledge."
~Judith Shapiro
Understanding the Complexity of Land Acknowledgements.
Land acknowledgments have gained significant attention in recent years as a way to recognize the historical and ongoing connection between Indigenous peoples and the land. While these acknowledgments can be well-intentioned, it is crucial to critically examine their impact and ensure they do not inadvertently erase Indigenous people or sanitize history.
Acknowledging the Erasure
Land acknowledgments should go beyond mere symbolic gestures. They should strive to honor the Indigenous peoples who have stewarded the land for centuries and recognize the ongoing struggles they face. Unfortunately, some acknowledgments can fall into the trap of generalizations or superficial statements, overlooking the diversity of Indigenous nations, cultures, and histories. This erasure perpetuates the historical and ongoing marginalization of Indigenous communities.
1850’s map of Curry County showing the location of bands of the To-to-tin Indian tribe as reported July 10, 1854, by J.L. Parrish, Indian Agent, Port Orford District, and other historical information.
A comprehensive land acknowledgement requires a deeper understanding of history. It necessitates recognizing the displacement, dispossession, and forced removal of Indigenous peoples from their ancestral lands. By acknowledging the injustices of the past and present, we can work towards reconciliation, justice, and healing. It is essential to acknowledge that colonization and settler colonialism continue to impact Indigenous communities today.
Moving Beyond Symbolism
To move beyond mere symbolism, land acknowledgements should be accompanied by tangible actions that support Indigenous self-determination and the revitalization of Indigenous cultures and languages. This means engaging in meaningful partnerships, supporting Indigenous-led initiatives, amplifying Indigenous voices and perspectives, and actively working to dismantle systemic barriers that perpetuate inequality.
Digging Deeper into History
Jane Foster-Yanner (right) and her daughter
Mollie Foster-Hollis-Charmichael-Bulter (left).
By acknowledging the complex and often painful history of colonization, land acknowledgements can serve as a starting point for learning and unlearning. It is a responsibility to educate ourselves and others, challenging the dominant narratives that have sanitized history and perpetuated harmful stereotypes. By centering Indigenous voices and perspectives, we can foster understanding, respect, and justice.
Working Towards Reconciliation
True reconciliation requires more than words; it requires action.
Land acknowledgements should be part of a broader commitment to decolonization, engaging in meaningful relationships with Indigenous communities, and supporting their self-determined efforts. By actively challenging colonial structures and amplifying Indigenous voices, we can work towards building a more equitable and inclusive future.
Embrace every opportunity to deepen our understanding, challenge the erasure of Indigenous people, and actively work towards reconciliation.
Together, we can build bridges of understanding and contribute to a more just and inclusive society.
