LAND ACKNOWLEDGMENT
In the spirit of fostering understanding and respect for the indigenous peoples of the San Diego region, we acknowledge that the land on which the our clinic operates is the ancestral and unceded territory of the Kumeyaay Nation. We pay our respects to their elders, past and present, and express our gratitude for their stewardship of this land throughout the generations.
The Kumeyaay people have a rich and vibrant history deeply intertwined with the land and resources that make up the San Diego region. Their traditional territory spans across what is now the southernmost regions of California in the United States and northern Baja California in Mexico. The Kumeyaay Nation, comprised of the Kumeyaay and Ipai people, has maintained a profound connection to this land for thousands of years.
The wider area (San Diego County) was also the site of trade, hunting, gathering, and healing for many other Indigenous people including the following nations:
Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians
Barona Band of Mission Indians
Cahuilla Band of Mission Indians
Campo Band of Kumeyaay Indians
Chemehuevi Indian Tribe
Ewiiaapaayp Band of Kumeyaay Indians
Iipay Nation of Santa Ysabel
Inaja-Cosmit Band of Indians
Jamul Indian Village A Kumeyaay Nation
La Jolla Band of Luiseño Indians
La Posta Band of Mission Indians
Los Coyotes Band of Cahuilla and Cupeño Indians
Manzanita Band of the Kumeyaay Nation
Mesa Grande Band of Mission Indians
Morongo Band of Mission Indians
Pala Band of Mission Indians
Pauma Band of Luiseño Indians
Rincon Band of Luiseño Indians
San Manuel Band of Mission Indians
San Pasqual Band of Mission Indians
Santa Rosa Band of Cahuilla Indians
Soboba Band of Luiseño Indians
Sycuan Band of the Kumeyaay Nation
Torres Martinez Desert Cahuilla Indians
Viejas Band of Kumeyaay Indians
We must recognize Indigenous peoples as the original stewards of this land. Remember the ties these nations still have to their traditional homelands. Let us acknowledge the painful history of genocide and forced removal from this territory and pay our respect to the diverse Indigenous peoples still connected to this land.
We recognize that the land acknowledgment is a small step towards reconciliation and understanding. It is important to remember that this acknowledgment alone does not address the historic and ongoing injustices faced by indigenous peoples. These injustices include forced removal from their ancestral lands, the suppression of their cultures and languages, and ongoing challenges related to sovereignty, healthcare, education, and more.
As we come together on this land, let us commit ourselves to learning more about the indigenous peoples of this region, their history, their struggles, and their contributions to our community. By recognizing the Kumeyaay Nation and acknowledging the past and present experiences of indigenous peoples, we take a step towards a more inclusive and just future for all who share this land.
We encourage everyone to engage with the indigenous communities in the San Diego region, to support their efforts in preserving their culture and traditions, and to honor their resilience. In doing so, we work towards building a more equitable and harmonious society for all who call this land home.