Op-ed written by Chairwoman Tracey Hopkins of the Picayune Rancheria of the Chukchansi Indians
November is Native American Heritage Month, a time to reflect, remember, and celebrate the enduring spirit of our people. It is a moment to honor our ancestors’ wisdom, recognize our achievements today, and recommit ourselves to building a stronger future for the generations yet to come.
For the Picayune Rancheria of the Chukchansi Indians, this month carries deep meaning. Our people have lived continuously in California’s Central Valley and Sierra foothills for thousands of years. We have endured hardship, fought for recognition, and preserved our identity through every challenge. Yet through it all, our language, culture, and traditions have survived, and today, they thrive.
Native American Heritage Month is more than a commemoration of history; it is a living celebration of who we are. Across the country, Indigenous peoples are educators, artists, entrepreneurs, veterans, and leaders, contributing to our communities while honoring our heritage. Here in Coarsegold, the Chukchansi people continue to uphold our ancestors’ teachings through cultural preservation programs, youth mentorship, and our ongoing commitment to community service…