10/12/2020
Today on Indigenous Peoples Day we honor, respect, and acknowledge the contributions and importance of our Native communities. For those who don’t know me, my name is Charlene Shroulote-Duran, I am big Parrot of baby Eagle, from the Pueblo of Acoma nation. I have been serving in the role of associate director for the IfSC. Part of the mission of the IfSC is to build and sustain resilient communities. Considered one of the oldest inhabited communities in the nation, Acoma is an example of a resilient community. My ancestors have survived for many many years on top of the mesa with no running water, indoor plumbing or electricity. My people are still here contributing to and sustaining our way of life. There are so many other Indigenous communities around the world. I encourage everyone to learn more about these great sovereign nations.
Also, we recognize TAMU occupies the land of multiple nations including the Tonkawa, Tawakoni, Hueco, Sana, Wichita, and Coahuiltechan Peoples.
We honor, support and advocate for the histories, languages, cultures, and rightful ownership of the land of the historic indigenous peoples of the state and those who currently still live here.