Why does the County of Los Angeles have a Land Acknowledgment?

The County of Los Angeles acknowledges its lands as the ancestral territory of Indigenous Peoples, including the Tongva, Tataviam, and Chumash. This recognition honors their elders and descendants while confronting the legacies of colonization, including land seizure and cultural erasure. On July 13, 2021, a motion by Supervisors Solis and Hahn sought to officially apologize for the historical injustices faced by California Native Americans. The motion highlighted the necessity of truth-telling as a pathway to healing and reconciliation. The County aims to enhance relationships with local tribal governments, such as the San Manuel Band and the Fernandeño Tataviam Band.

This effort aligns with a broader commitment to equity for all communities in the region. To learn more about these Indigenous groups, residents can visit the Los Angeles City/County Native American Indian Commission website. The acknowledgment signifies a vital step toward rectifying historical wrongs and fostering a more inclusive community.