Land Acknowledgement Statement

Land Acknowledgement

We acknowledge that Barry University is located on land that is the ancestral and traditional territory of the Seminole and Miccosukee people. We humbly acknowledge that Native Americans hold a deep spiritual and cultural connection to this territory and are dedicated stewards of this land. We give honor and respect to the past, present, and future generations of the Taino, Tequesta, Seminole Tribe of Florida, the Miccosukee Tribe of Indians of Florida, and all First Nations people.

We recognize the strength and resilience of Native Americans who have endured the irreconcilable hardships. We extend to them our gratitude as we live, work, and learn as guests upon this scarred land. We recognize the importance of indigenous culture in our community, the legacy of courage and fortitude, and their sustained presence. Through education and community service, Barry University will promote justice for these Nations and broaden public awareness of a captivating and often tragic history that has brought us to this moment in time. A time for healing, a time for honoring, a time to find ways to build a better future for generations to come.

Why does Barry Acknowledge the Land?

Barry’s Core Commitments

Knowledge and Truth 
Advance our knowledge and understanding of the history and present-day lives of Native Americans. Acknowledge the more than 600 tribes that occupied land all over what is now the United States and give honor to them for being stewards of the land we call home. We acknowledge our Native American alumni who have contributed greatly to advancing our knowledge and elevating the truth that in unity we may all grow, share, and prosper.

 

Social Justice 
The history and current life experiences of Native Americans reveal a host of injustices that extend beyond the Indian Removal Act of 1830. As we express our commitment to racial justice, equity, and inclusion, we will seek opportunities to advance our understanding of the lived experiences of nearly 6.7 million Native Americans in this country today. Native Americans carry historic wounds, yet they continue to fight to not become invisible. Barry University joins Native Americans, and all advocates, in highlight their valued presence and to stand for environmental justice, equity, the eradication of poverty, and unity. 

 

Inclusion 
As an institution of higher education, we must help students understand and develop an appreciation for the distinct culture, traditions, and ancestral ties that are shared by Native Americans.  Integrating the scholarly research, history, art, and relevant current events into our classrooms, help cultivate an inclusive learning experience for our students, faculty, and staff. Barry will continue its work with respect to environmental justice and seek ways to engage with the Miccosukee and Seminole Tribal Nations, in our community. 

 

Collaborative Service  
We will seek opportunities to become more collaborative with the Miccosukee and Seminole Tribal Nations. We will continue to build upon our Adrian Dominican Sister’s legacy of environmental justice and their view of the earth as sacred; a view that is shared by Native Americans. Barry University will work to protect this spiritual landscape. 

 

A Statement for public meetings, gatherings, and classrooms 
Barry University acknowledges that we are gathered on the traditional land of the Seminole and Miccosukee people. This acknowledgement represents our commitment to advance an awareness of the rich and enduring culture of Native Americans, and to become better stewards of the land we inhabit.  

 

Resources

Seminole Tribe and Miccosukee Tribe Consultants, Osceola, C. & Bowers, E. (11/19/2021).

https://www.history.com/topics/thanksgiving/history-of-thanksgiving

https://networkadvocates.org/recommittoracialjustice/legacy/

https://www.reference.com/history/tequesta-tribe-dba0dd361d6080a3

https://native-land.ca/resources/territory-acknowledgement/

https://nativegov.org/news/a-guide-to-indigenous-land-acknowledgment/

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