City of San Rafael
Proclamation in Recognition of
NATIVE AMERICAN HERITAGE MONTH
November 1 – 30, 2025
WHEREAS, Native American Heritage Month is a time to honor and celebrate the rich and diverse cultures, histories, and traditions of Native Americans, recognizing their enduring contributions and the sacrifices they have made throughout history; and
WHEREAS, this month provides an opportunity to reflect on the challenges Native Americans have faced, both past and present, and to acknowledge their resilience, strength, and the growing recognition of Indigenous identities, as over 9.7 million people in the United States identified as American Indian or Alaska Native in the 2020 Census; 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 honors their ongoing partnerships with local governments and agencies in areas such as education, cultural preservation, land stewardship, environmental justice, and community well-being; and
WHEREAS, during the month of November, we pay tribute to the ancestral homeland of the Federated Indians of Graton Rancheria and express our gratitude for their continued contributions to the cultural, civic, and social fabric of our community, including their traditions of dance, music, storytelling, worship, and their service in the military and public service; and WHEREAS, the 2025 theme for Native American Heritage Month, “Weaving together our past, present and future,” invites all members of our community to deepen their understanding of the original stewards of this land and to reflect on the interwoven legacies, lived experiences, and aspirations of the Federated Indians of Graton Rancheria as they continue to preserve Tribal sovereignty and advocate for justice and equity.
THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Mayor and City Council of the City of San Rafael hereby proclaim November 1 – 30, 2025, as Native American Heritage Month, and encourages all citizens to join in observing, recognizing, and honoring 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