BOARD AGENDA MEMORANDUM
SUBJECT:Title
Consider the October 27, 2022, Diversity and Inclusion Ad Hoc Committee Recommendation to Adopt Tribal Land Acknowledgment Statement.
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RECOMMENDATION:Recommendation
Review and approve the October 27, 2022, Diversity and Inclusion Ad Hoc Committee's Recommendation to Adopt the Tribal Land Acknowledgment Statement
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SUMMARY:
Tribal land acknowledgments honor the history, legacy and culture of the indigenous people of an area, and are typically used at the beginnings of meetings, activities, and other events hosted by an organization. According to the Native American Institute at Michigan State University, "[t]he purpose of a land acknowledgment is to recognize, respect and affirm the ongoing relationship between Indigenous people and the land. Land acknowledgments also raise awareness about the Indigenous histories, perspectives, and experiences that are often suppressed or forgotten."
To honor the indigenous people of Santa Clara County, staff has prepared a standardized Tribal land acknowledgment statement that can be posted on Santa Clara Valley Water District's (Valley Water) website and used by staff during meetings, activities, and Valley Water-hosted events. This statement will be available as a resource for Valley Water employees and designees to use as deemed appropriate for Valley Water-hosted events and activities. The adoption of a Tribal land acknowledgment statement aligns with Valley Water's efforts to equitably serve all Santa Clara County communities and build collaborative relations with local tribal groups. More importantly, the adoption of a Tribal land acknowledgment statement will serve as a reminder to ourselves of the need for and importance of meaningfully engaging with tribal communities in the work we do.
ENVIRONMENTAL JUSTICE IMPACT:
There are no Environmental Justice impacts associated with this item.
FINANCIAL IMPACT:
There is no financial impact associated with this item.
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