I am a settler in Tovaangar, the traditional lands of the Tongva peoples. Los Angeles came to exist through the enslavement, exploitation, and forced assimilation of Tongva peoples, in particular through the California mission system. Now, the Tongva Taraxat Paxaavxa Conservancy, among others, works to steward land and create community for Native people.
As I am both based in Los Angeles and tie much of my identity to the region, I feel it is only right to commit to telling the true history of the area, as one of many steps to decolonize and return the land to its original stewards.
Find out more about solidarity through kuuyam nahwá'a, or guest exchange, at the Tongva Taraxat Paxaavxa Conservancy.
