Golden State Today

On the fifth anniversary of California's apology to Native Americans, Governor Gavin Newsom announced the state's intention to return over 2,800 acres of ancestral land to the Shasta Indian Nation. This effort is part of California's broader initiative to address historical injustices against Native communities.

"This work is a down payment on the state’s commitment to do better by the Native American communities who have called this land home since time immemorial," said Governor Newsom. "By listening to and working with tribes across the state, including returning ancestral homelands and restoring the environment, we are healing deep wounds and rebuilding trust between our people."

Governor Newsom recently visited the Klamath River dam removal project, which aims to rehabilitate over 300 miles of salmon habitats. During this visit, he discussed the land return with Shasta Indian Nation leaders. The state supports transferring 2,820.860 acres of "Parcel B" lands associated with these dams back to the Shasta Indian Nation.

"The Shasta Indian Nation is pleased with the Governor’s decision to support the return of our ancestral lands and sacred sites," said Shasta Indian Nation Chairperson Janice Crowe. "Having access to our ceremonial sites, including the site of our First Salmon Ceremony, is critical to the spiritual and emotional health of our people."

Five years ago, when Governor Newsom apologized on behalf of California at the future site of the California Indian Heritage Center, he also announced creating the California Truth and Healing Council. This council has worked collaboratively with various state entities and tribes to develop initiatives such as:

- The 30 x 30 initiative aimed at conserving 30% of lands and coastal waters by 2030.

- The Tribal Nature-Based Solutions grant program that facilitates returning excess state lands to tribal ownership.

- The California Department of Parks and Recreation’s Tribal Memoranda of Understanding (MOU) Program that ensures tribal access and co-management within state parks.

"We are proud to support returning Shasta Indian Nation’s homelands on this significant anniversary," said Tribal Affairs Secretary Christina Snider-Ashtari. "We will continue in this work of healing throughout the state by supporting similar restorative efforts."

This transfer is part of broader efforts by California's government under Governor Newsom's administration. Earlier this year, over 40 acres were transferred from CDFW to Fort Independence Indian Community, marking CDFW’s first-ever land return. Additionally, through Coachella Valley Mountains Conservancy, 417 acres were returned to Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians.

The Tribal Nature-Based Solutions grant program awarded $107.7 million for projects supporting approximately 49,345 acres' return:

- Hoopa Valley Tribe acquired 10,395 acres.

- Tule River Tribe acquired 14,672 acres.

- Owens Valley Indian Water Commission acquired 158 acres.

- Iipay Nation of Santa Ysabel acquired 1,100 acres.

These ongoing efforts include collaboration on environmental restoration projects like Beaver Restoration Program aimed at mitigating wildfires' impacts.

More information about these initiatives can be found through respective official channels.

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