We would like to recognize the People of the Three Fires: the Ojibwe, Odawa, and Potawatomi peoples on whose land we are gathered. The Three Fires People are indigenous to this land which means that this is their ancestral territory. Every university is built on stolen, native land. We are guests on their land and one way to practice right relations is to develop genuine ways to acknowledge the histories and traditions of the people who originated here first, who are still here, and who tend to the land always. As we make this land acknowledgment we know it is but an important first step, and that there are many more that we need to take when we decide to engage in the important work of social justice.

For more information on the purpose and intent of land acknowledgments, see Northwestern University's site.

During this day, we honor the first inhabitants of what we now call the United States of America, where we built foundations of freedom and equality even though it was not always free or equal for all. Celebrating this holiday is not only special for indigenous people but for others as well so we can reflect on how our nation was built. I think it is important to remember early United States history as if we do not remember, we are bound to repeat it.

Some indigenous communities still reside on reservations throughout the United States and are governed by themselves, making them sovereign and separate from the United States. These reservations are their land and should be respected.

We would like to recognize the People of the Three Fires: the Ojibwe, Odawa, and Potawatomi peoples on whose land we are gathered. The Three Fires People are indigenous to this land which means that this is their ancestral territory. Every university is built on stolen, native land. We are guests on their land and one way to practice right relations is to develop genuine ways to acknowledge the histories and traditions of the people who originated here first, who are still here, and who tend to the land always. As we make this land acknowledgment we know it is but an important first step, and that there are many more that we need to take when we decide to engage in the important work of social justice.

For more information on the purpose and intent of land acknowledgments, see Northwestern University's site.

When we band together, we are more powerful than anything. A great way to pay reparations is to provide economic opportunities and education opportunities for indigenous people. Providing them with adequate education and employment opportunities are a great way to pay reparations for what has happened in the past. They also deserve the respect that they never got in the past. It is truly amazing how hard they fought for their land while all odds were against them.