A Land Acknowledgement

A Land Acknowledgement

Just as Amos called Israel to do the hard work of examining their history and addressing it in the context of present day sin, so we, the people of Arapaho UMC, are called to acknowledge our historical participation as conquerors and in colonization. With this in mind, we affirm that even when uncomfortable, we must acknowledge the rightful history of the land on which we sit.

Acknowledgement by itself is a small gesture. It becomes meaningful when coupled with authentic relationships and informed action. But this beginning can be an opening to greater public consciousness of Native sovereignty and cultural rights, a step toward equitable relationship and reconciliation.

Every community owes its existence and vitality to generations from around the world who contributed their hopes, dreams, and energy to making the history that led to this moment. Some were brought here against their will, some were drawn to leave their distant homes in hope of a better life, and some have lived on this land for more generations than can be counted. Truth and acknowledgment are critical to building mutual respect and connection across all barriers of heritage and difference. We, the community at Arapaho United Methodist Church, begin this effort to acknowledge what has been buried by honoring the truth.

The church’s campus at the corner of Coit and Arapaho Rd. in Richardson, resides on the ancestral lands of the Wichita, Comanche, Caddo, and Cherokee People. We pay respects to their elders past and present. As you finish this reading, please take a moment to consider the many legacies of violence, displacement, migration, and settlement that have brought us to today.

The colonization of indigenous persons who occupied the land on which we dwell is not a myth. As we acknowledge our past, let us commit to move forward to restoration and justice in a way that honors God and all God’s children.