As Native American Heritage Month wrapped up, California marked Native American Heritage Day by honoring the contributions of Native communities and emphasizing the importance of partnerships to tackle ongoing disparities. Governor Gavin Newsom reaffirmed the state’s commitment to collaboration with tribal nations, stating, “We are proud to work with our tribal partners to chart a bright path forward.”
The highlight of the celebrations was the state’s first-ever National Native American Heritage Month Parade, which featured prominent leaders such as Tribal Affairs Secretary Christina Snider-Ashtari, along with youth ambassadors like Miss Big Pine Paiute Tribe Sienna Fuller and Ms. UCLA Powwow Princess Maritza Barley.
California also made significant strides in its efforts toward truth and healing. Key actions included returning 357 acres of land to the Wiyot Tribe, renaming more than 30 derogatory place names, and investing $107.7 million in tribal land projects. In addition, the state allocated $13.2 million in grants to address the Missing and Murdered Indigenous Peoples crisis and $91 million to improve housing conditions for Native communities. These efforts demonstrate California’s dedication to advancing Native rights and addressing long-standing challenges.
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