Native Land Acknowledgement Statement for the Davis Joint Unified School District



Rationale

In order to pay homage to the indigenous people and land on which the Davis Joint Unified School District is located and to continue to educate our students and community, staff and the community believed it was time to adopt a Native Land Acknowledgement Statement. This statement has been approved by the Yocha Dehe Wintun Nation and the three Patwin tribes, and is also used by UC Davis and the Yolo County Office of Education. It can be used in oral and/or written form at DJUSD events as deemed appropriate.
 
We should take a moment to acknowledge the land on which we are gathered. For thousands of years, this land has been the home of Patwin people. Today, there are three federally recognized Patwin tribes: Cachil DeHe Band of Wintun Indians of the Colusa Indian Community, Kletsel Dehe Wintun Nation, and Yocha Dehe Wintun Nation.

The Patwin people have remained committed to the stewardship of this land over many centuries. It has been cherished and protected, as elders have instructed the young through generations. We are honored and grateful to be here today on their traditional lands.


What is a Land Acknowledgement?

A land acknowledgement formally recognizes and pays respect to the indigenous people who once lived where DJUSD stands today. It is intended to raise awareness regarding the enduring relationship between indigenous people and the land that continues to this day.

How was the DJUSD land acknowledgement statement developed?

Yocha Dehe Wintun Nation approved this land acknowledgement statement through their Tribal Council, which was subsequently adapted and expanded to include all three Patwin tribes. The three Patwin tribes have approved the above statement.

When should this statement be used?

The school community is encouraged to present the land acknowledgement statement at any DJUSD event held in Davis.

What is the suggested approach for presenting the statement?

The host of an event may present the land acknowledgement statement during opening comments. The statement may also be included on printed agenda or materials if desired. Individuals may choose to provide further context, information, or comment as appropriate to each individual event at the discretion of the speaker.

What is the appropriate pronunciation of each of the indigenous names?

  • Patwin [PUTT-win]
  • Cachil Dehe [CATCH-ill DEE-HEE]
  • Kletsel Dehe [KLET-SELL DEE-HEE]
  • Yocha Dehe [YO-chuh DEE-HEE]
  • Wintun [WIN- tune]