​JOURNEY TOWARD LAND ACKNOWLEDGMENT–PART 1

This is the first in a series of articles about land acknowledgment and our journey to be good neighbors to our local Native community.

What is land acknowledgment?

“Land acknowledgments are used by Native Peoples and non-Natives to recognize Indigenous Peoples who are the original stewards of the lands on which we now live. Making a land acknowledgment should be motivated by genuine respect and support for Native Peoples. Speaking and hearing words of recognition is an important step in creating collaborative, accountable, continuous, and respectful relationships with Indigenous nations and communities.”(Source: National Museum of the American Indian)

Why does the Church of the Incarnation want to have a land acknowledgment?

At the 80th General Convention (2022) two resolutions were passed regarding inclusion of land acknowledgments in our corporate life and worship–C072 and D019.Since then, many congregations, dioceses and church groups have developed land acknowledgments.

More importantly, our Baptismal promises guide us to this, to “love our neighbors as ourselves and to strive for justice and peace among all people and respect the dignity of every human being.”Development of land acknowledgment is a first step toward being in right relationship with our Native neighbors.

The Commission for Intercultural Ministries in the Diocese of Northern California applied for a grant to fund two churches to receive consultative support to develop land acknowledgments.Church of the Incarnation was one of the churches to receive grant funding.

How can we learn more about Incarnation’s work to draft a land acknowledgment?

At the Forum on Sunday November 19, we will have the opportunity to hear from Rose Hammock, one of the Native consultants who provided support and guidance for us in the process of drafting a land acknowledgment.She is a wonderful cultural ambassador and bridge-builder for us as we journey toward being good neighbors to the local Native community.

For more information, contact Daphne Vernon at [email protected].

Becoming Beloved Community Ministry