Acknowledgment
We as people of faith who are called to care for this creation want to respectfully acknowledge the Cowlitz and Chinook People, who have stewarded this land throughout the generations.
Every community owes its existence and vitality to generations from around the world who contributed their hopes, dreams, and energy to making the history that led to this moment. Some were brought here against their will, some were drawn to leave their distant homes in hope of a better life, and some have lived on this land for more generations than can be counted. Truth and acknowledgment are critical to building mutual respect and connection across all barriers of heritage and difference. We begin this effort to acknowledge what has been buried by honoring the truth. We are standing on the ancestral lands of the Cowlitz and Chinook People. We pay respects to their elders past and present. Please take a moment to consider the many legacies of violence, displacement, migration, and settlement that bring us together here today. And please join us in uncovering such truths.
What you Can Do
You can educate yourself about your local tribe(s) and their history on the land that you occupy.
A Land Acknowledgment is the least we can do, and serves as a beginning towards further education, relationship building, and reconciliation for the sins of generations past.
And, you can inspire your own organization to craft their own land acknowledgment!
