The Truth and Healing around Colonization group is proposing an experiment. After two years of reading, research, and discussion, we have composed a different Land Acknowledgement—A People and Land Acknowledgement–and are inviting the UCC congregation to try living into this acknowledgement together over the next few months. In Pastor John’s words from his January 21st Sermon, to make space for it, engaging in reflection and conversation around it. For example, in the pews you will find slips of paper on which you might share responses to it; or, you might talk with one of us during coffee; and on Feb 11, we hold a listening session at 11:30 in the sanctuary to share impressions.
In the interest of truth and healing, we the people of University Congregational Church acknowledge that our church is built on lands taken from Séliš and Ql̓ispé people. They cherished and cared for this land as their home, a place for trade, raising families, sharing their stories, as well as for ceremonial purposes. Having witnessed the historical and ongoing harm done by colonization to Indigenous lifeways, cultures, and the land, we want to learn from the original stewards of this place. We commit ourselves to being allies and taking action to work toward a more just and equitable future.
News and Updates from the Truth and Healing around Colonization group:
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Winter Storytelling at Travelers’ Rest State Park
On Saturday, February 17, the Séliš-Ql̓ispé Cultural Committee is presenting Winter Storytelling at Travelers’ Rest State Park at 11:00 AM. Some members of the Truth & Healing Around Colonization Group will be attending this event and we invite others to join us. If you are interested in forming a carpool, please send your name and information…
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Thank you from Sylvia
Many thanks to everyone who donated Christmas stocking items for Sylvia (of Sylvia’s Store) to fill Christmas stockings for the Flathead Reservation Community. Thank you also to the drivers who delivered everything to Pablo. Sylvia sent us this card expressing her appreciation.
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New People and Land Acknowledgement
From members of the UCC Truth and Healing around Colonization Group: Over the past two years we have been educating ourselves on issues related to our country’s colonization and our Indigenous neighbors. This has included book groups, guest speakers, trips to the CSKT Tribal headquarters in Pablo, discussion. For example, we have discussed several articles about Land…
The Truth and Healing around Colonization group is part of the Justice and Witness Area Coordinating Team (ACT).