Governor Brown Issues Proclamation Declaring “Native American Day”

WHEREAS, Native Americans were the first human inhabitants of the land that is now the State of California, and have lived here continuously for at least 12,000 years;

WHEREAS, Native American traditions of stewardship and conservation have shaped and preserved the landscapes of our state and continent;

WHEREAS, the songs, dances, arts, and crafts of Native Americans are among the world’s great cultural treasures;

WHEREAS, Native American traditions were influential in the formation of American democracy;


WHEREAS, Native Americans have preserved their distinct cultural traditions in the face of overwhelming odds and persistent injustice;

WHEREAS, in spite of this tragic history, Native Americans have been generous citizens of the United States, serving our country in peace and war;

WHEREAS, California today has more Native Americans living within its borders than any other state;

NOW THEREFORE I, EDMUND G. BROWN JR., Governor of the State of California, do hereby proclaim September 22, 2011, as “Native American Day.”

IN WITNESS WHEREOF I have hereunto set my hand and caused the Great Seal of the State of California to be affixed this 20th day of September 2011.


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EDMUND G. BROWN JR.
Governor of California