91´«Ã½

Land acknowledgments are an important way to bring attention to the Tribal Peoples who first inhabited the lands. Land acknowledgments should ideally be verbally given at in-person conferences. Land acknowledgments are typically given during the opening session by the association president or other leadership. The time it takes to coordinate a land acknowledgment may take some time, we recommend starting the process at least four months before the conference.

How to find a contributor

91´«Ã½'s Office for Diversity, Literacy and Outreach Services (ODLOS) coordinates with the (AILA) to contract with an Indigenous library worker who can write up a cultural piece as well as produce a script, including pronunciation. You are more than welcome to work with Indigenous contributors from your own networks, but ODLOS is also happy to connect you with AILA leadership as well. Below is a sample email that is sent to the AILA listserv in an effort to seek a contributor:

SUBJECT: Seeking information on Indigenous history and community in San Antonio

Hi AILA members!

91´«Ã½ ODLOS is seeking one San Antonio-based contributor to write on the Indigenous history and culture of San Antonio, Texas. This write-up would appear on the website and should include information on the history, current communities, and resources for more information. An example of a previous write-up can be found on the and ODLOS page.

In addition to providing a similar summary, the contributor is expected to provide a short script that can be used as a land acknowledgment during 91´«Ã½ LibLearnX, including pronunciation

91´«Ã½ ODLOS will provide an honorarium of $150 for the above content. If you are interested in this opportunity, please email Amber Hayes (ahayes@ala.org) by Monday, August 9. First drafts will be expected by Friday, October 1.

Action

Land acknowledgments are only as impactful as the intent behind them. It is important to pay individuals for the work and provide an opportunity for action. Actions can be providing opportunities for more information or contributing financially to Indigenous organizations. Some conference speakers and organizers commit to donating a portion of their proceeds to a local Indigenous organization and encourage others to do the same.

Resources

• American Indian Library Association ()
• 91´«Ã½ Land Acknowledgments (.pptx)
• Native Land ()

Questions?

Email ODLOS at diversity@ala.org.