Living land acknowledgment

We humbly and gratefully acknowledge that we are on the ancestral lands of the Mohican, Lenape, and other Algonquian-speaking peoples. These Indigenous peoples were subject to genocide, coerced into assimilation, and forcibly removed from their homelands. The seats of government for these nations are now located in Wisconsin, Oklahoma, and Ontario, Canada.  

As a land trust and the current steward of this place, CLC understands that access to land is a sacred and collective right. CLC recognizes the Indigenous history of this land and supports efforts today to build more equitable spaces for all the human and non-human relatives who call this place home.

Condensed version

We are on the unceded lands of the Mohican, Lenape, and other Algonquian-speaking peoples. CLC recognizes the Indigenous history of this land and supports efforts today to build more equitable spaces for all the human and non-human relatives who call this place home.

About the land acknowledgment

This land acknowledgment was developed by a committee of CLC staff in consultation with an Indigenous expert familiar with this area and shared with relevant sovereign nations with the intent of building relationships.

A land acknowledgement is never completed, it is merely the start of a long relationship between partners. CLC seeks to continue these relationships through learning, humility, and partnerships long into the future. If you have feedback to share about our land acknowledgment, please contact [email protected].

Beyond the land acknowledgment

CLC is dedicated to moving forward in right relationship with the Indigenous communities whose land we currently occupy. In 2023, we have committed to rededicating all funds collected at CLC-owned properties to the Stockbridge-Munsee Community and ensuring Indigenous history is included in the signage and interpretive materials on and about these properties. We are investigating additional actions, including cultural use easements on protected lands, learning more about Indigenous land management practices, and partnering on educational and cultural programs.

We are also dedicated to putting relationships first. You may not hear immediately about what CLC is working toward with Indigenous partners until an appropriate juncture. If you have ideas or contacts for CLC to consider, please email [email protected].