Golden State Today

Sacramento, Apr 26 2024 - Governor Gavin Newsom of California has announced a groundbreaking initiative aimed at addressing historical injustices against California Native American tribes by supporting the return of ancestral lands and advancing nature-based projects on tribal territories.

The state has allocated over $100 million for 33 tribal land projects, focusing on ancestral land return, implementation of Traditional Ecological Knowledge, habitat restoration, and climate and wildfire resilience efforts. Governor Newsom emphasized the significance of these awards, stating, “These awards are an acknowledgment of past sins, a promise of accountability, and a commitment to a better future – for the land and all its people, especially its original stewards.”

Chairman Kevin Osuna of the Iipay Nation of Santa Ysabel expressed gratitude for the support, highlighting the symbolic importance of the funding in terms of solidarity, recognition of inherent rights, and the commitment to stewarding ancestral lands. Osuna emphasized the broader impact of the initiative on future generations and the preservation of cultural heritage.

Similarly, Chairperson Dino Franklin from the Kashia Band of Pomo Indians underscored the tribe's commitment to preserving natural resources and cultural heritage for future generations, emphasizing the importance of sustainable land management practices.

Tribal Affairs Secretary Christina Snider-Ashtari noted the significance of the investments in supporting ancestral land return and tribal stewardship, highlighting the critical role of tribes in achieving broader conservation goals in California.

Natural Resources Agency Secretary Wade Crowfoot emphasized the importance of tribal leadership in environmental conservation efforts, stating that the funding for ancestral land return and nature-based solutions is a significant step towards conserving 30% of California’s lands and coastal waters by 2030.

The initiative not only aims to address historical injustices but also aligns with California's goal of conserving lands and coastal waters, fostering partnerships with Native American tribes, and ensuring the sustainable management of ancestral lands.

This initiative represents a crucial step in California's journey towards healing, reconciliation, and environmental stewardship, marking a significant milestone in the state's commitment to supporting tribal communities and their ancestral lands.