The Land is the People and the People are the Land: A Circle of Unity and Respect

tending to the roots, cultivating our connections

In the ethos of the Urban Native Collective, the land is not separate from us—it is us, and we are it, in a continuous circle of unity and respect. In nearly all Indigenous languages, there is no distinction between the Peoples and the Land in our sacredness. This profound connection embodies our identity, culture, and spirituality, entwining the destiny of the people with the fate of the land. Here, we explore the deep interdependence between us and Mother Earth, highlighting how this bond shapes our actions and responsibilities.

The Land is not just the ground beneath our feet; it is the keeper of histories, the sustainer of life, and a sacred entity that demands our respect and care. In this collection of resources, we explore the multifaceted ways in which we, as part of the Native community, engage with and honor the land. From the Ohio Native Land Initiative, which seeks to recognize and restore Indigenous lands, to our commitment to crafting thoughtful Land Acknowledgments, we delve into the practices that strengthen our connection to the Mother Earth. Our Urban Gardens Project exemplifies this bond, turning urban spaces into vibrant centers of growth and learning, while our work in preserving Ohio's Sacred Sites ensures that these lands remain respected and protected. Join us in this journey of understanding, cherishing, and nurturing the land, as we continue to weave the wisdom of our ancestors into the fabric of our modern existence.