We would like to take the opportunity to thank and acknowledge the original caretakers of this land where we are gathered today. The Portland metro area rests on traditional sites of the Multnomah, Wasco, Cowlitz, Kathlamet, Clackamas, Bands of Chinook, Tualatin Kalapuya, Molalla, and many other tribes who made their homes along the Columbia River. We acknowledge the systemic policies of genocide, relocation, and assimilation that impacted them and still impact the many Indigenous and Native families living here today.
With the understanding that our members and the bookselling community in general face social, political, and cultural challenges every day, ABA is committed to planting a small seed of recognition and honor for Native Americans everywhere a conference is held. Onward is our pledge to the Native American people that continue to live here in Portland.
We pledge to make ongoing efforts to recognize their knowledge, creativity, and resilience including a donation to the Native American Youth and Family Center (NAYA). NAYA is a family of numerous tribes and voices who provide culturally-specific programs and services that guide their people in the direction of personal success and balance through cultural empowerment. NAYA moves their agenda forward focusing on their core values which are respect, balance, pride, giving, community, tradition, kindness, accountability, diversity and leadership. We recognize their values in our own and thank NAYA for the work they do.