Acknowledging Those Who Came Before Us

As we launch this campaign discussing issues that the people of Jefferson County are facing, it's important to remind ourselves that this land that we now call Jefferson County was originally - and is still today - inhabited and stewarded by tribal peoples from the Jamestown S’Klallam and Port Gamble S’Klallam (Nəxʷsƛ̕áy̕əm̕), Chemakum (Aqokúlo or Čəməqəm), Lower Elwha Klallam, Quileute, Hoh, Quinault, and Skokomish nations.

A comment from Heather about land acknowledgement:

"I recognize and respect that land acknowledgements can be perceived as performative or otherwise meaningless, especially when they are not accompanied by any real effort to create a better future together. I am willing to take that risk in order to potentially gain even a tiny bit more awareness. The history of our American people includes some very real and horrific treatment of our fellow humans. It's time to truthfully acknowledge that past, to openly ask and be willing to hear how  heinous acts throughout time continue to impact people today, and to be willing to take real and tangible action to begin to heal.

My own family's lore includes a belief that we would not be here today had it not been for the courageous and loving acts of Chief čičməhán (Chetzemoka), who chose peace over war when he could have advised his people otherwise. To our tribal neighbors - from my family to yours - I thank you."