Draft Proclamation
City of SantaClara
WHEREAS, Native Americans have inhabited the Bay Area region for many millennia, and have contributed significantly to the growth, prosperity, and identity of our country, from before its inception to the present day; and
WHEREAS, the 2020 United States Census reports that 9.7 million people throughout the United States identify as American Indian and Alaskan Native and, according to the Bureau of Indian Affairs, there are currently 574 federally recognized American Indian and Alaskan Native tribes and villages; and
WHEREAS, California is home to 109 federally -recognized Indian tribes and several other non -and previously recognized tribes such as the Muwekma Ohlone Tribe of the San Francisco Bay Area who are actively petitioning for federal recognition and reaffirmation; and
WHEREAS, Native American Heritage Month is a time to celebrate the traditions, languages and stories of Native American, Alaska Native, Native Hawaiian, and affiliated Island communities and ensure their rich histories and contributions continue to thrive with each passing generation; and
WHEREAS, during Native American Heritage Month, the City honors America’s first inhabitants and their contributions while never forgetting the centuries-long campaign of violence, displacement, assimilation, ill treatment, and terror wrought upon Native communities and Tribal Nations throughout the United States; and
WHEREAS, on this occasion, the City of Santa Clara celebrates the incredible resilience of Native American communities, their unique cultures, languages, and traditions, and their continued contributions to our community;
NOW, THEREFORE, I, LISA M. GILLMOR, by virtue of the authority vested in me as Mayor, and on behalf of the Santa Clara City Council, do hereby proclaim the month of November 2023
Native American Heritage Month
in Santa Clara and encourage all residents to honor the history, cultures, traditions, and contributions made by Native American s in our community throughout the year .
Given under my hand and the Seal of the City of Santa Clara, California, this 14th day of November 2023.
LISA M. GILLMOR
MAYOR
City of Santa Clara
Proclamation