As we gather here in beautiful Minnesota, we would be remiss not to acknowledge the sacred land upon which the events and activities of the ACVIM Forum will take place. This is the traditional homeland of the Dakota and Ojibwe people, who suffered terrible injustices through acts of settler colonialism. We acknowledge the privileges and benefits that we have been afforded from these acts of violence.
We also acknowledge that Native people are much more than the sum of their tragedies and are in no way relics of the past. They continue to demonstrate their talent and resiliency and should be celebrated.
To build on this acknowledgment, we encourage everyone to take action to contribute to a better future for Native people. Below are resources to learn about the non-colonial history of Minneapolis and Minnesota, and how you can stand in solidarity with Native nations.
Solidarity looks like:
• Donating time and money to Indigenous-led organizations
• Amplifying the voices of Indigenous people leading grassroots change movements
• Returning land
Minnesota Native American History*
Native Governance Center*
Minneapolis American Indian Center*
Native American Community Development Institute*
MIGIZI*
Minnesota Indian Women’s Resource Center*
We Are Still Here - Minnesota*
Native Land Map
Natives in Vet Med
Student Initiative for Reservation Veterinary Services (SIRVS)
ACVIM DEI Resource Page
ACVIM DEI Blueprint
*Indicates Minnesota organization
All My Relations Arts
Indigenous Food Lab Market
Pow Wow Grounds
Franklin Avenue East Cultural District
Owamni
Birchbark Books
Hoċokata Ṫi