Land Acknowledgment and Repair Journey
For the last few years, Pathways Retreat has been on an intentional journey of learning more about the indigenous history of the land it inhabits. Aware that this is an ongoing process and will likely never be complete, this is what we offer today as our land acknowledgment. We recognize that it as one step of Pathways’ journey seeking repair and reparations for Indigenous Peoples.
Land Acknowledgment
We at Pathways Retreat acknowledge that we are on the traditional land of the Miami and Potawatomi people past and present, and honor with gratitude these tribes and the land itself.
We recognize the painful history of the removal of the Miami and Potawatomi people from this land. We also recognize how policies, systems, and structures continue to oppress and erase Indigenous peoples today, and we advocate for the right of self-determination for all peoples native to North America.
It is in line with our mission (as a spiritual retreat for rest, reflection, and renewal) and our vision (for a more compassionate community) to reflect on our place in the land’s history. Any genuine reflection on the existence of Pathways Retreat must acknowledge that this land was long stewarded by the Miami and Potawatomi people, and we still enjoy the benefits of their care.
In seeking renewal for all who visit Pathways Retreat, our land acknowledgment is not merely an intellectual exercise. We dedicate a portion of our budget each year for contributions to indigenous causes, commit to continuous learning and relationship building, and give our time to restoring the land we reside on, mindful of Indigenous wisdom and practice. We know that this action does not erase past harms.
Land acknowledgement is not a new practice, but rather is born out of indigenous traditions dating back centuries.
We recognize the painful history of the removal of the Miami and Potawatomi people from this land. We also recognize how policies, systems, and structures continue to oppress and erase Indigenous peoples today, and we advocate for the right of self-determination for all peoples native to North America.
It is in line with our mission (as a spiritual retreat for rest, reflection, and renewal) and our vision (for a more compassionate community) to reflect on our place in the land’s history. Any genuine reflection on the existence of Pathways Retreat must acknowledge that this land was long stewarded by the Miami and Potawatomi people, and we still enjoy the benefits of their care.
In seeking renewal for all who visit Pathways Retreat, our land acknowledgment is not merely an intellectual exercise. We dedicate a portion of our budget each year for contributions to indigenous causes, commit to continuous learning and relationship building, and give our time to restoring the land we reside on, mindful of Indigenous wisdom and practice. We know that this action does not erase past harms.
Land acknowledgement is not a new practice, but rather is born out of indigenous traditions dating back centuries.
Adopted by Pathways Retreat Board of Directors, June 2024
Resources
Find out whose land you are on using this GIS map and app.
Get started on land acknowledgment with this guide from the U.S. Department of Arts and Culture.
Find more information and resources on Dismantling the Doctrine of Discovery Coalition's website.
Get started on land acknowledgment with this guide from the U.S. Department of Arts and Culture.
Find more information and resources on Dismantling the Doctrine of Discovery Coalition's website.