Land Acknowledgement Statement
“We want to acknowledge that we gather as Marymount Manhattan College on the traditional land of the Lenape Peoples past and present, and honor with gratitude the land itself and the people who have stewarded it throughout the generations. This calls us to commit to continuing to learn how to be better stewards of the land we inhabit as well. The name Manhattan derives from the Lenape word for Island, “Menatay”. Each time we say the name Marymount Manhattan College, remember that we are evoking the memory of the Lenape People.”
What is a Land Acknowledgement?
A Land Acknowledgement is a formal statement that recognizes the unique and enduring relationship that exists between Indigenous Peoples and their traditional territories.
Why Do We Recognize The Land?
- Recognizing land is an expression of gratitude and appreciation to those whose territory you reside on, and a way of honoring the Indigenous people who have been living and working on the land.
- It is important to present when discussing Diversity and Inclusion as it is an acknowledgement of power and access.