SACRAMENTO – As leaders of Native American tribes from across California gather to celebrate the 52nd Annual Native American Day at the state Capitol, Governor Gavin Newsom today issued a proclamation declaring September 27, 2019, as Native American Day in the State of California.
Later today, Governor Newsom will deliver remarks at the Capitol celebration, themed “Strength in Unity: One People, One Purpose.”
The text of the proclamation is below:
PROCLAMATION
In California, our bright future depends on a full reckoning with our dark past. Earlier this year, I took the initial and necessary step to formally apologize to California Native Americans for the exploitation and violence our predecessors inflicted upon them. In doing so, we collectively recognized that California Native Americans have resisted and persisted despite the destructive and shameful actions of our ancestors. As a next step, we are creating a Truth and Healing Council to continue on this journey of reckoning with our past and healing together.
California Native American communities exemplify the best of who we are – and who we could be – as Californians. Long before colonizing forces imposed themselves on these lands, California Native Americans were thriving in sustainable communities. From the redwoods and salmon of the North Coast, to the rivers and oaks of the foothills, to the springs and mesquite trees of the desert, California Native Americans stewarded this land, building flourishing communities, speaking distinct languages and fostering vibrant cultures.
California tribal nations have carried on these traditions, contributing to the rich fabric of California today and ensuring the success of our shared tomorrow.
Tribes are social and economic forces that power not just their own communities, but those around them. They lead our state in renewable energy, disaster and emergency response and natural resource management. They create jobs and provide access to public services. They also work to revive languages, protect sacred sites and raise the next generation to celebrate and embrace their unique and diverse heritage.
On Native American Day, we take time to honor the contributions of tribal nations throughout our state, as well as the resilience of these remarkable Californians.
NOW THEREFORE I, GAVIN NEWSOM, Governor of the State of California, do hereby proclaim September 27, 2019, as “Native American Day.”
IN WITNESS WHEREOF I have hereunto set my hand and caused the Great Seal of the State of California to be affixed this 23rd day of September 2019.
GAVIN NEWSOM
Governor of California
ATTEST:
ALEX PADILLA
Secretary of State
###