Yes, Land Acknowledgements are very much still being practiced and are increasingly being adopted by various organizations, institutions, and individuals across North America and beyond. This practice has gained significant traction as a way to recognize and honor the Indigenous peoples who are the original stewards of the land.
The Enduring Practice of Land Acknowledgements
Land Acknowledgements are a growing and evolving practice, moving from informal gestures to formalized statements. Many entities are dedicating resources to developing thoughtful and collaborative acknowledgements. For instance, in a significant step reflecting ongoing commitment, the County of Los Angeles unanimously voted to adopt a comprehensive Land Acknowledgment on November 1, 2022. This decision followed months of collaboration with leaders from local Tribes, demonstrating a dedicated effort to recognize the Indigenous history and presence in the region. This formal adoption highlights the continued relevance and importance of Land Acknowledgements in contemporary society.
Why Land Acknowledgements Remain Relevant
The continued practice of Land Acknowledgements serves several crucial purposes:
- Recognition of Indigenous Sovereignty: They acknowledge the enduring relationship Indigenous peoples have with their traditional territories, recognizing their inherent rights and ongoing sovereignty.
- Historical Truth-Telling: They serve as a vital step in educating the public about the historical and ongoing impacts of colonization, including forced displacement and dispossession.
- Building Relationships: They can foster better relationships between Indigenous communities and non-Indigenous peoples and organizations, creating a foundation for reconciliation and collaboration.
- Raising Awareness: By stating who the traditional custodians of the land are, these acknowledgements raise awareness about Indigenous cultures, histories, and contemporary issues.
Who is Practicing Land Acknowledgements?
The adoption of Land Acknowledgements is widespread and continues to grow across diverse sectors:
- Educational Institutions: Universities, colleges, and schools frequently begin events, lectures, and even online courses with Land Acknowledgements.
- Government Bodies: Various levels of government, from municipal to national, are formalizing their acknowledgements, as seen with the Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors.
- Cultural Organizations: Museums, art galleries, and cultural centers often incorporate acknowledgements into their programming and displays.
- Businesses and Corporations: A growing number of private sector entities are integrating Land Acknowledgements into their corporate social responsibility initiatives, websites, and events.
- Non-Profits and Community Groups: Many community-based organizations use them to align with principles of social justice and equity.
- Individuals: Many individuals choose to include Land Acknowledgements in their personal and professional capacities, such as at public speaking engagements or in email signatures.
Practical Applications of Land Acknowledgements
Land Acknowledgements are incorporated into various settings:
- Public Events and Meetings: Often delivered at the opening of conferences, workshops, ceremonies, and public gatherings.
- Digital Platforms: Found on organizational websites, social media profiles, and in virtual meeting introductions.
- Written Materials: Included in publications, reports, curricula, and signage.
- Academic and Research Contexts: Incorporated into presentations, papers, and field studies to honor the lands where research takes place.
Common Elements of a Land Acknowledgment
| Element | Description |
|---|---|
| Specific Indigenous Peoples | Naming the specific Indigenous nations or peoples whose traditional territory is being acknowledged. |
| Traditional Territory | Identifying the specific traditional, unceded, or ancestral lands. |
| Call to Action (Optional) | A statement about ongoing commitment to Indigenous rights, reconciliation, or support for Indigenous initiatives. |
| Statement of Respect | Expressing gratitude and respect for the Indigenous peoples' stewardship of the land. |
It's important to note that a Land Acknowledgment is a starting point, not the end of engagement with Indigenous issues. It should be part of a broader commitment to reconciliation, learning, and meaningful action. For further information and resources on this important practice, you can refer to the toolkit and other resources provided by the County of Los Angeles on their Land Acknowledgment page.
