Land Acknowledgement

What we now call Clackamas County is the traditional lands and waterways of the Clackamas, Chinook Bands, Kalapuya, Kathlamet, Molalla, Multnomah, Tualatin, Tumwater, Wasco and many other tribes of the Willamette Valley and Western Oregon. We will never be able to name every tribe that visited or lived upon this land because these communities frequently traveled for trade and other reasons. The Indigenous people lived, traded and navigated along great rivers and tributaries presently named the Clackamas, Molalla, Pudding, Sandy, and Willamette. Many of the original inhabitants of this land died from disease, war and other conflicts. Those that survived these tragedies were forcibly removed and relocated by European settlers and the United States Government because of the land’s value. Today, their descendants live on, still carrying on the traditions and cultures of their ancestors.

We honor the Native American people of Clackamas County as a vibrant, foundational and integral part of our community here today. We respectfully acknowledge Wy’east, also known as Mount Hood, and Hyas Tyee Tumwater, also known as Willamette Falls, as sacred sites for many Native Americans. We thank those who have connection to this land and serve as stewards, working to ensure our ecosystem stays balanced and healthy.

Acknowledging the original people of the land is a simple, powerful practice that demonstrates respect by making indigenous people’s history and culture visible. It is also a small step along the path toward reconciliation and repair. Please join us in taking this opportunity to thank and honor the original caretakers of this land.

(Language courtesy of Clackamas County)