This sanctuary is not just a commitment to environmental conservation, but a recognition of the Chumash and Salinan people’s deep connection to the land and sea. For generations, we have acted as stewards of this coastline, and now, with the sanctuary’s forthcoming official designation, we are ensuring that this sacred relationship endures. The Chumash Heritage National Marine Sanctuary will protect vital ecosystems and endangered species, safeguarding the biodiversity of central California’s waters. But it is also a historic moment for Indigenous sovereignty.

 

This is the first Tribally nominated marine sanctuary, a powerful affirmation of the Chumash people’s leadership in protecting our ancestral lands and waters. This achievement would not be possible without the collaboration of NOAA and other government agencies. Together, we are setting a precedent for Indigenous-led stewardship in the protection of our environment. By working alongside federal institutions, we are proving that partnership and shared responsibility are key to addressing the environmental challenges we face. As we look to 2024 and the sanctuary’s official designation, we are not just preserving the past, we are securing a future where the land, waters, and culture we hold dear continue to thrive. Let this sanctuary serve as a model of cooperation, respect, and shared vision for generations to come.

 

 

- CHIA: California Habitat for Indigenous Arts