Presbyterian church leaders from the San Gabriel Valley returned a half-acre parcel of ancestral Tongva land to the Gabrieleno Tongva tribe, marking California's first-ever land transfer from a church to a recognized Indigenous tribe. The site, known as Siban'gna, has historical significance as part of the tribe's ancestral village and will serve as their tribal headquarters. The ceremony on August 2 celebrated the return with an open-house event that included traditional practices and acknowledges the historical injustices faced by Indigenous people due to colonial activities.
"This is more than a gift, it's a recognition of truth, history, and healing," said Gabrieleno Tongva Chief "Redblood" Anthony Morales. The ceremony marked a significant moment for the tribe, acknowledging the historical wrongs that have been imposed on Indigenous people, particularly concerning the land's sacred significance and prior misuse by missionaries. The sentiment expressed reinforced the importance of healing relationships between the Presbyterian Church and the Gabrieleno Tongva community."},{
"We're very grateful to the Presbyterian Church for correcting the wrong that was imposed on our people," said Morales, who got married at the church next to the returned land. This statement reflects the deep personal and communal significance of the land return, which not only restores physical ownership but also renews ties within the community and acknowledges historical injustices.”
"Leaders called the site Siban'gna, part of the Gabrieleno Tongva's ancestral village. The church’s decision to return the land recognizes the importance of repatriation and reparative justice, symbolizing not just a transfer of property but a restoration of dignity and rightful heritage to the Gabrieleno Tongva people."
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