November is Native American Heritage Month. A land acknowledgment is a traditional custom in many Native communities and nations to show respect to the people of the land since time immemorial. The importance of land acknowledgments for non-indigenous individuals and communities relies on the recognition of their relationship to the original inhabitants of a location and to the land. Furthermore, it is a way to show respect and gratitude to the traditional stewards of a specific location, while recognizing that colonialism is still an ongoing process. We understand that acknowledging is not the end of our process.
We recognize that Donnelly Library sits on the ancestral land of the Nimiipuu Tribe. This land was and continues to be of great importance to the Nimiipuu people. Consistent with our values of community and inclusion, we have a responsibility to acknowledge, honor and make visible the Library’s relationship to Native peoples. Today and tomorrow and every day to come we will continue to honor the Nez Perce Tribe.
We further acknowledge that Long Valley was a summer resting ground and we to must continue to seek rest in the Valley.
Today, we honor all of the tribes that chose this Valley as a place of rest. Shoshone-Bannock, Cayuse, and Northern Paiutes, and the NezPerce. May we all find our place of rest. Inside our Teepees we read, we learn, and above all we dream. Please go to our website to learn more about #nativeamericanheritagemonth #Native #NezPerce #NezPerceTribe
Note From Miss Sherry:
Recently, I was given the opportunity to visit Washington D.C. and represent the Library. While there I was able to visit several of the Smithsonian Museums. The Smithsonian has worked to preserve history and present universal access to materials. We encourage you to click the link above and show your students a traditional Nez Perce Tipi.