DNC summer meeting opens with ‘land acknowledgment’ slamming US system of suppression

The Democratic National Committee recently started its annual summer meeting in Minneapolis with a unique “land acknowledgment” that highlighted the ongoing system of suppression in the United States.

Lindy Sowmick, treasurer of the Minnesota Democratic-Farmer-Labor Party (DFL) and a self-described “Indigenous queer woman,” delivered the acknowledgment following an introduction by DNC Chairman Ken Martin. Sowmick emphasized the importance of recognizing the Dakota Oyate – the Dakota people – as the original stewards of the lands and waters of Minneapolis. She pointed out that the Dakota had cared for the lands, lakes, and the Mississippi River for thousands of years before colonization, highlighting a history of broken treaties and promises.

Sowmick urged members of the Democratic Party to view the “land acknowledgment” as more than just a formality. She encouraged them to engage with Indigenous communities, ask questions, and ensure that native voices are heard. Sowmick emphasized the importance of honoring the legacy of the land and its people through meaningful engagement characterized by honesty, humility, respect, and compassion.

The summer meeting, attended by over 400 party officials from all 50 states, served as a platform for discussions on various issues, including the acknowledgment of Indigenous peoples’ history and the need for reconciliation.

This emphasis on acknowledging and honoring Indigenous communities is not new for the DNC. The party’s national convention in Chicago prior to the 2024 election also included a “land acknowledgment” that highlighted the forcible removal of tribal folks from their land by the U.S. government. Additionally, the DNC’s 2024 party platform featured a similar acknowledgment on its first page, recognizing the contributions and resilience of Indigenous peoples throughout history.

The DNC’s commitment to acknowledging and respecting Indigenous communities underscores the party’s values of inclusivity and social justice. By actively engaging with Indigenous voices and histories, the DNC aims to create a more equitable and inclusive political landscape for all Americans.

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