In the essay “Stolen from Our Bodies” Qwo-Li Driskill argues that Two-spirit people and indigenous women were separated from their homes and bodies by European colonization. I believe this is true because many indigenous women were not given the right to do what they wanted with their own bodies, the film “Resilient Histories” Dr. Risling Baldy mentioned that many women and children were sexually assaulted during Spain’s Mission system. This system was put in place in order to build a labor force, which basically was an enslavement of the California Indian people. This was such a painful part of history for indigenous people because they did not have any control whatsoever on their own bodies or who they wanted to be as an individual. European settlers forced ideas, labor, sexual assault, any many more violent acts upon them. In the same film the director reveals how the Gold rush was not that profitable for European settlers as they originally thought so they decided to take Indian land by removing them in a violent matter. This ties in with land and homes being stolen from Two-spirit people.

Lastly, it is necessary to determine how to practice decolonization because it is important to not only talk about the genocide and violence that happened. Decolonization starts with being mindful and start the start revitalization. Let’s acknowledge indigenous culture that is thriving and very present. Additionally, the amazing future that holds for them, don’t let genocide define indigenous communities let’s spread more positively upon their community. By the continuance of teaching songs, sharing stories, and ceremonies for other generations to carry on will guide them on a path of decolonization. These teachings will help restore their community and create an admirable bond. Also, by listening and amplifying indigenous voices we can help make a change towards getting their land back and protecting sacred indigenous land. I believe that staying educated and continuing to educate ourselves about indigenous history will assure awareness which can potentially join thousands to fight for indigenous rights and protection laws.

Land Acknowledgment

This land that many have lived on and grown in for many years belongs to the Kumeyaay tribe, it is known by many but should be recognized more. Kumeyaay people not only have cherished this land for many years but also have an amazing connection. Kumeyaay people have a experienced genocide, ethnic cleansing, stolen land, and forced removal by colonizers. In the official Kumeyaay website there is a brief description of indigenous communities being forcefully removed by settlers from their own land, “Lands were carved up for distribution as Ranchos and Indians were either evicted or forced to work as laborers.” This is only a small description of the horrible things the Kumeyaay people endured for many years by colonizers.

It is necessary to embrace and recognize the land of the Kumeyaay people. Not only is it important to restore and recognize the land but be knowledgeable about the stolen land. Being aware of this will help you spread awareness and ultimately promote decolonization. Indigenous people have suffered too much for too long, but this has only made them stronger, and willing to get back what was taken from them. I am proud to be aware and educated that this land that I have been on and grown is Kumeyaay land, spreading awareness and educating myself more will help me try to make a change and help bring balance. Justice has not been done until lands get returned to the Kumeyaay people and all of indigenous lands are properly acknowledged.