Governor Gavin Newsom met Tuesday afternoon with leaders of California's Indian tribes on the future site of the California Indian Heritage Center in West Sacramento to discuss what his office described as the mistreatment, violence and neglect inflicted on California's Native American peoples throughout the state's history. He also made a formal apology on behalf of the state in an executive order.
"California Native American peoples suffered violence, discrimination and exploitation sanctioned by state government throughout its history," Newsom said. "We can never undo the wrongs inflicted on the peoples who have lived on this land that we now call California since time immemorial, but we can work together to build bridges, tell the truth about our past and begin to heal deep wounds."
Governor Newsom also has plans to create what his office calls the Truth and Healing Council to allow Native Americans to clarify the historical record of the state’s violence against them.
His executive order and other plans related to the state's Indian tribes received praise from tribal leaders in attendance.
Assemblymember James Ramos from Highland said, "As the first California Indian elected to the State Legislature, I applaud the executive order signed by Governor Newsom today to issue a formal apology from the state for past cruel treatment of Native Americans. This action will go a long way to start the healing process between the state and Native American communities throughout California."
Ramos also spoke of the history of California Indian people that Governor Newsom referenced in his apology.
"This is a history of genocide and oppression that so many Native American tribes share – under attack, families separated, culture stolen or destroyed, displaced from land. That is why tribal knowledge is sacred, and its preservation tantamount to our survival as a people."
Newsom also took part in a blessing ceremony at the future site of the California Indian Heritage Center.