What is a land acknowledgment?

And why it matters for inclusion

What are land acknowledgments? A land acknowledgment is a statement that acknowledges the native nations and the original stewards of the land that we occupy in the United States.

Why use a land acknowledgment

The goal of using a land acknowledgment is to recognize indigenous people and to honor and show our respect.

How to get started

A way you can get started is by visiting the website, Native-land.ca. This website will guide you to a map that shows you indigenous territories and the people who inhabited those lands.

Above all, make sure that when you develop such a statement, you are truly being genuine in your words.

EXAMPLE OF LAND ACKNOWLEDGMENT

I acknowledge the lands on which I labor and live are the original homelands of the Dakota and Ojibwe Nations who were forcibly removed from, and are still connected to this territory. I will respect and honor Indigenous peoples by incorporating and supporting Indigenous knowledge in my work, and establishing meaningful relationships with Indigenous communities. With gratitude, I stand in solidarity. Learn more about Native American culture and history in Minnesota.

RESOURCE: Native-land.ca

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