Land Acknowledgement Statement

Every community owes its existence and vitality to generations from around the world who contributed their hopes, dreams, and energy to making the history that led to this moment. Some were brought here against their will, some were drawn to leave their distant homes in hope of a better life, and some have lived on this land for more generations than can be counted. Truth and acknowledgment are critical to building mutual respect and connection across all barriers of heritage and difference. We begin this effort to acknowledge what has been buried by honoring the truth. The native communities around Tucson number over 30,000 strong and are descended from many tribes and native communities. We are gathered on the ancestral unoccupied land of the Tohono O'odham, Pascua Yaqui and many more who may call this place home. We pay respects to the elders past and present, please take a moment to consider the many legacies of violence, displacement, migration and settlement that bring us together here today.