HomeMy WebLinkAboutPresentation of Proclamation Supporting Native American Heritage Month, 2024
City of San Rafael
Proclamation in Recognition of
NATIVE AMERICAN HERITAGE MONTH, 2024
WHEREAS, Native American Heritage Month is a time to celebrate the vibrant and
diverse cultures, histories, and traditions of Native Americans, honoring
their significant contributions, and their enduring sacrifices; and
WHEREAS, this month serves as an opportunity to raise awareness about the challenges
faced by Native Americans both historically and in the present day and
according to the U.S. Census Bureau, over 9.7 million people in the U.S.
identified as American Indian or Alaska Native in the 2020 Census,
reflecting a growing recognition of Indigenous identities and the
importance of their voices; and
WHEREAS, the City of San Rafael acknowledges the Federated Indians of Graton
Rancheria as a sovereign nation, consisting of Coast Miwok and Southern
Pomo peoples, and the only federally recognized Tribe whose ancestral
territory encompasses Marin County and the City of San Rafael, and that
the Tribe maintains a partnership with government agencies and local
municipalities, with whom they collaborate on matters of education,
cultural resource protection, land management, environmental justice, and
social welfare; and
WHEREAS, during the month of November, we honor the Federated Indians of Graton
Rancheria their ancestral home, and appreciate their continued
contributions in strengthening the diversity of our society through sharing
traditions of dance, music, worship, sports, and through their service in the
military and government; and
WHEREAS, we invite all members of our community to deepen their understanding of
the original inhabitants of this Nation, and particularly our County and
City as we take a moment to reflect on the past, present, and future,
recognizing the ongoing efforts of the Federated Indians of Graton
Rancheria to preserve and protect Tribal sovereignty and social justice.
THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Mayor and City Council of the City of San Rafael
hereby proclaim November 2024, as Native American Heritage Month, and encourages all
citizens to join in observing and recognizing the accomplishments, contributions, and sacrifices
of the Federated Indians of Graton Rancheria and all Native Americans, here in our local
community and throughout the United States.
Kate Colin
Mayor
