CREATING A BROAD PLATFORM FOR INDIGENOUS PEOPLES
advancing awareness of the critical connection between Native sovereignty and environmental preservation
The Ohio Native Land Initiative
The Ohio Native Land Initiative
Through The Ohio Native Land Initiative,
the UNC seeks to establish a broader platform to promote Indigenous perspectives on sacred sites, encourage land rematriation efforts, and assert Native sovereignty as foundational to some of the region’s most important natural resources and public spaces.
The Ohio Native Land Initiative is an effort intended to (1) promote greater involvement with and protection for sacred Indigenous sites in Ohio; (2) broaden alliance-building efforts leading to deeper engagement with movements that support the protection of Indigenous sovereignty and cultural rights; (3) encourage serious efforts toward the re-indigenizing of public and private spaces in order to create opportunities that honor Indigenous lifeways and promote spiritual freedom; and (4) broadening education and public outreach around Indigenous culture, lifeways, and Native habitats. The overarching purpose of the initiative is to protect Indigenous lands, sacred sites and natural resources, while advancing awareness of the critical connection between Native sovereignty and environmental preservation.
Want to learn more about the Ohio Native Land Project?
1. Promoting Greater Involvement with and Protection for Sacred Indigenous Sites
In Ohio, countless sacred Indigenous sites have faced destruction and desecration. Our rich history is embedded in these sites, serving as a testament to the Indigenous peoples who originally inhabited this land. These sites are not just relics of the past; they are a vibrant part of our living heritage and deserve our utmost respect and protection.
We urge you to join us in safeguarding these sacred places. Support our work in building an Ohio Indigenous Land Trust, contribute to an endowment for Indigenous lands, and participate in public advocacy efforts. Your involvement can make a significant difference in preserving the spiritual and cultural integrity of these sites for future generations.
2. Broadening Alliance-Building Efforts for Indigenous Sovereignty and Cultural Rights
The history of Indigenous people in Ohio is a story of resilience and survival. Today, we strive to honor our ancestors and the sacred land they cherished. By building alliances, we aim to protect and reassert our inherent sovereignty, cultural rights, and the sanctity of our sacred sites.
Stand with us in this journey. Engage in dialogue with Indigenous groups, support access to sacred sites for ceremonies, and help protect Indigenous knowledge from exploitation. Your alliance is crucial in our collective effort to preserve and celebrate our Indigenous heritage.
3. Encouraging the Re-Indigenizing of Public and Private Spaces
The Ohio Native Land Initiative aims to reforge the bond between the land and its original caretakers. This initiative is about more than just acknowledgment; it's about action. Re-indigenizing spaces means respecting traditional lifeways, recognizing cultural rights, and taking steps towards restoring Native sovereignty.
Join us in this transformative endeavor. Advocate for the Rights of Water under Tribal authority, support environmental covenants, and elevate Indigenous voices in policy-making. Your involvement can help create a future where the land and its people are in harmonious balance.
4. Broadening Education and Public Outreach on Indigenous Culture, Lifeways, and Native Habitats
Education and outreach are vital in preserving and promoting Indigenous culture and history. By broadening our understanding, we can foster greater respect and appreciation for Indigenous lifeways and the rich diversity of Native habitats in Ohio.
Be part of this educational journey. Participate in cultural events, engage with educational materials, and support initiatives that aim to deepen the public's understanding of Indigenous history and culture. Your active participation is key to ensuring that the story of Indigenous people is told accurately and respectfully.
