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Land Acknowledgement

We collectively acknowledge that we gather at WSC, on the traditional lands of the Mandan, Hidatsa, and Arikara Nation and Turtle Mountain Band of Chippewa Indians and Assiniboine, in addition to many diverse Indigenous Peoples still connected to these lands. With gratitude we honor the Indigenous Peoples who have walked these lands throughout generations. We will continue to build strong, mutually beneficial, trusting relationships with Indigenous Peoples of our region and with the First Nations of the State of North Dakota.

When to use the Land Acknowledgement

The Land Acknowledgement Statement should be spoken or printed in its entirety. The Statement should not be altered or rewritten. The Acknowledgement may be shared at events such as official College ceremonies, critical conversations, performances, and/or conferences, as determined by the event coordinators. College faculty, staff, and student organizations are welcome to use the Acknowledgement when deemed appropriate.

Why have a Land Acknowledgment

It is important to understand the history that has brought people to the land on which they reside. A Land Acknowledgement Statement seeks to show respect, recognition, and gratitude to Indigenous Peoples who call the land home.

WSC Land Acknowledgement Committee

LeeAnn Clark, WSC Diversity and Inclusion Committee Member
Precious Dada, Student Representative
Lylie Foster, Student Representative
Zoe Gunville, Student Representative
Kit Hernandez, Director for Residence Life
Matt Peterson, WSC Diversity and Inclusion Committee Member
Dr. Kim Weismann, WSC Diversity and Inclusion Committee Chair

Pronunciations

Arikara (uh- rih- kah- ruh)

Assiniboine (uh- si- nuh- boyn)

Chippewa (chip - pe - wa)

Hidatsa (hi - dat - sa)

Mandan (man - dan)

Land Acknowledgement | Williston State College