Honoring the Land and People: A Commitment to Decolonization and Liberation | Decolonizing Affirming Therapy in St. Louis
Affirming Liberation Therapy & Healing Arts Practice is deeply grounded in the values of decolonization, anti-racism, and collective liberation. This land acknowledgment is a testament to my commitment to honoring the Native peoples and communities historically and presently affected by systemic oppression in this area.
Land Acknowledgment: Recognizing the Ancestral Land and its Significance
I acknowledge the land as a foundational entry point in decolonized liberation framework. As a current resident of the land known now as St. Louis, Missouri, it is important to me to recognize and honor the Native people from whom this land was stolen and who were the original caretakers of this beautiful area. It’s important to note that this land belonged to those people, and the people belonged to the land and then were traumatically torn from it.
I acknowledge that the land on which I live and work is the ancestral land of the Osage Nation, the Missouria, and the Illini Confederacy. The land belongs to them, and they to it. The convergence of the Mississippi and Missouri Rivers holds deep cultural and spiritual significance, serving as a sacred site for the Indigenous peoples of this region for millennia.
Historical Context: Understanding the Historical Significance
The Osage Nation, Missouria, and Illini Confederacy
These groups of people are among the original inhabitants of this land, with a rich history that includes sophisticated agricultural practices, complex societal structures, and spiritual traditions deeply connected to the land.
The Osage people called what is now known as the Missouri River "Ni-U-Kon-Ska" (Big Muddy) and the Mississippi River "Wazhazhe Zibi" (Osage River). The confluence of these rivers was a sacred place of meeting and sustenance.
The Cahokia Mounds and Mississippian Culture
The nearby Cahokia Mounds, a testament to the Mississippian culture, represent one of the most advanced civilizations in North America, characterized by large, organized communities, monumental architecture, and extensive trade networks.
You can visit the Cahokia Mounds State Historic Site, located on the East side of the Mississippi River, the remnants of one of the most significant and sophisticated pre-Columbian Native American cities north of Mexico. The ancient Cahokia people, who were part of the Mississippian culture, thrived in this area from approximately 700 AD to 1400 AD. At its peak, Cahokia was home to tens of thousands of people and featured large, complex earthen mounds, some of which were used for ceremonial purposes, while others served as the bases for large public buildings and the homes of elite members of society.
Cahokia was a center of trade, culture, and religion, with a highly organized society that managed vast agricultural resources. The largest mound, known as Monks Mound, is a testament to the engineering prowess and social organization of the Cahokian people. Standing over 100 feet tall, it remains the largest earthen structure in the Americas.
Notable Figures: Honoring Native Leaders and Their Legacies
Chief Clermont, Chief White Hair, and Chief Munsee
These leaders played significant roles in their communities, advocating for their people's rights, culture, and lands. Their legacies are a reminder of the strength and resilience of Native nations.
You may want to learn more and could begin by reading the history of traditional leaders and caretakers of this land, including notable figures such as Chief Clermont, Chief White Hair, Chief Munsee, Chief Ne-kah-ke-sis, Chief Onapa, Chief Washashe, Chief Wah-she-hah, Chief Big Soldier, Chief Menawarra, and Chief Pahuska. Their legacies remind us of the deep connection between the people and the land.
Honoring Indigenous Women and Two-Spirit People
Indigenous women and Two-Spirit people have been vital to the cultural and spiritual well-being of their communities, holding roles as leaders, healers, and warriors. Their stories are an essential part of the land's history and ongoing struggles for justice.
We-che-te-yeh (Strong Woman) - A warrior and leader among the Osage, We-che-te-yeh led several successful defenses of her people’s territory against encroaching settlers and rival tribes.
Ah-ho-appa (Good Woman) - A respected healer in the Osage Nation, Ah-ho-appa's knowledge of medicinal plants and healing practices was widely sought after, and she trained many in the community.
Mih-tutta-hang-kush (She Carries the Corn) - A prominent agriculturalist in the Missouria tribe, Mih-tutta-hang-kush developed innovative farming techniques that increased crop yields and food security for her community.
Ka-Te-Kah (Sun Woman) - A cultural leader among the Missouria, Ka-Te-Kah was known for her efforts in preserving traditional arts, crafts, and ceremonies, which she taught to younger generations.
By sharing their stories we can ensure that their history and contributions are not forgotten. We are reminded of the importance of preserving and respecting the cultural heritage and natural resources of this land, striving to be responsible caretakers for future generations.
Acknowledging Human Impact: The Impact of Colonization and Systemic Oppression
The systemic oppression faced by Native American and Black communities is a result of colonization, racism, and historical injustices.
The history of white flight from St. Louis to suburban areas has significantly impacted the city's Black communities. This exodus drained resources, leading to economic decline and diminished public services in predominantly Black neighborhoods. The “Delmar Divide” is a stark example of racial and economic segregation, with stark contrasts in income, education, and quality of life on either side of Delmar Boulevard. Additionally, in the 1950s and 1960s, the U.S. Army conducted secret experiments in St. Louis, dispersing chemicals over predominantly Black neighborhoods as part of Operation LAC (Large Area Coverage). These actions have had lasting health impacts on the Black community, contributing to mistrust in government and medical institutions.
Present Day Challenges: Modern Challenges Faced by Native and Black Communities
Native American and Black communities in St. Louis continue to face economic disparities, healthcare inequities, and racial discrimination. These challenges are compounded by historical traumas and ongoing marginalization.
Commitment to acknowledging and honoring the lives and contributions of Native American and Black communities is an ongoing process. By recognizing the individuals who have shaped our history and culture, we can work towards a more just and equitable society. Together, we can strive to replace systems of oppression with empowerment and liberation, fostering healing and growth for all.
I acknowledge the Native American communities, including the Osage Nation, the Missouria, and the Illini Confederacy, who have been the original caretakers of this land that belonged to them. Despite facing displacement, genocide, and cultural erasure, Native American communities continue to thrive and contribute to society. I honor their resilience, strength, and ongoing efforts to preserve their cultures, languages, and traditions. I support their sovereignty and Land Back.
I also acknowledge the Black communities who have been profoundly affected by the legacy of slavery, segregation, and systemic racism. Black individuals and communities have made significant contributions to the cultural, economic, and social fabric of our society, despite facing persistent discrimination and inequality. We honor their resilience, creativity, and unwavering commitment to justice and equality. Black Lives Matter.
Commitment to Decolonization and Liberation:
My Pledge to Anti-Racism and Collective Liberation
I commit to practicing decolonized ways of being and interacting with others, grounded in the ethical standards of being a Human Being. As a human being I value Black lives and firmly hold an anti-racist belief system. This means I also value Native people and people of the global majority. My commitment to anti-racism, anti-oppression, and collective liberation is rooted in relationships and personal conviction.
As the owner of Affirming Liberation Therapy & Healing Arts Practice, I strive to create an inclusive and empowering environment for clients. As an affirming therapist, I commit to practicing decolonized and anti-oppressive therapy. I adhere to the ethical standards of the American Counseling Association (ACA) and National Board for Certified Counselors (NBCC). This commitment guides my work in promoting healing, empowerment, and liberation for all clients.
Applicable Ethical Codes:
American Counseling Association (ACA) Code of Ethics:
Section A.2.c. Nondiscrimination: “Counselors do not condone or engage in discrimination against prospective or current clients, students, employees, supervisees, or research participants based on age, culture, disability, ethnicity, race, religion/spirituality, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, marital/partnership status, language preference, socioeconomic status, immigration status, or any basis proscribed by law.”
National Board for Certified Counselors (NBCC) Code of Ethics:
Section A.1. Professional Competence: “Counselors provide services within the boundaries of their competence, based on their education, training, supervised experience, state and national professional credentials, and appropriate professional experience.”
Section A.9. Non-discrimination: “Counselors respect the diversity of clients and seek training in areas in which they are at risk of imposing their values onto clients.”
Anti-Oppression and Pro-Liberation Stance
While these ethical codes provide a fundamental framework for ensuring non-discrimination and professional integrity, they are very basic and only represent a baseline standard that, though essential, does not fully encompass the depth of commitment required to truly dismantle systemic oppression. As someone who is deeply dedicated to anti-racism and collective liberation, I recognize that these guidelines, while necessary, are only a starting point. While professional organizations provide necessary ethical guidance, this should be a baseline expectation for all individuals. Unfortunately, those who have experienced the trauma of racism and oppression know that this is not yet a reality. Therefore, I pledge to go beyond these basic requirements, striving for a deep and sustained commitment to justice and equity.
Personal and Professional Belief Statement: I am committed to:
Actively opposing racism, discrimination, and oppression.
Supporting Indigenous Sovereignty. Supporting Land Back policies and practices.
Supporting Indigenous businesses. Supporting Black owned and minority owned small businesses.
Supporting Trans, Two-Spirit, Nonbinary, Queer rights.
Creating an inclusive and supportive environment for clients, where their intersecting identities are respected and valued.
Adhering to the ethical standards set forth by the ACA and NBCC to ensure non-discrimination and professional competence.
Promoting collective liberation by raising awareness of privilege and marginalization, and encouraging engagement in meaningful activism.
Business Commitment: As the owner of Affirming Liberation Therapy & Healing Arts Practice, I pledge to:
Foster a therapeutic space that is inclusive, affirming, and respectful of clients' identities and experiences.
Provide services that are informed by a deep understanding of systemic oppression and dedicated to the liberation of marginalized communities.
Engage in continuous professional development to stay informed about best practices in anti-racist and anti-oppression work.
Anti-Genocide Stance: I stand firmly against genocide in all forms and advocate for the protection and preservation of all cultures and communities. By recognizing the interconnectedness of our struggles, we can work together towards a future where everyone can live in freedom and equality. 🍉
The trauma experienced by those who have faced racism and oppression highlights the critical need for a deeper, more comprehensive commitment to justice and equity. While professional ethical codes provide necessary guidance, true liberation requires a proactive and profound dedication to anti-oppression that goes beyond basic standards. Let us unite in our commitment to justice, equity, and collective liberation, building a world where all individuals are empowered to thrive.
Conclusion: Moving Forward with Integrity and Purpose
I invite you to join me in honoring the land and its people, understanding the importance of decolonization, and supporting the collective liberation of marginalized communities. Let's work together to create a just and equitable society where everyone can thrive.
Commitment to Action
Acknowledging the land and its original caretakers is only the first step. We must also commit to taking concrete actions to support Native American and Black communities. This includes:
Education: Continuously educating ourselves and others about the history and contributions of Native American and Black communities, as well as the ongoing impacts of systemic racism and oppression.
Advocacy: Supporting policies and initiatives that promote justice, equality, and the rights of Native American and Black individuals and communities.
Solidarity: Standing in solidarity with Native American and Black communities, amplifying their voices, and participating in efforts to address historical and ongoing injustices.
Support: Providing financial and resource support to organizations and initiatives led by Native American and Black individuals and communities.
Call to Action: Learn More About My Practice
If you’re seeking an affirming therapist in St. Louis who truly understands and supports your unique identity, explore how Affirming Liberation Therapy & Healing Arts Practice can make a difference in your life. My practice is dedicated to being both neurodivergent and LGBTQIA+ affirming, grounded in Relational Cultural Therapy to promote collective liberation and empowerment.
REFERENCES & RESOURCES
These references cover topics such as the history of Indigenous peoples in the St. Louis area, the significance of the Cahokia Mounds, the cultural and spiritual importance of the Mississippi and Missouri Rivers, and the systemic oppression faced by Native American and Black communities.
References:
Ahdunko, S. (2021). Missouri’s First Inhabitants: The Osage and Missouria Nations. Missouri Historical Society. Retrieved from https://mohistory.org/missouri-first-inhabitants-osage-missouria
This source provides information on the Osage and Missouria Nations, their historical presence in Missouri, and their cultural significance.
McMullen, M. (2017). The Cahokia Mounds: America’s First City. University of Illinois Press.
This book discusses the Cahokia Mounds, a UNESCO World Heritage site near St. Louis, which was the center of the Mississippian culture and a testament to the sophisticated social and architectural practices of ancient Native American civilizations.
McKinney, D., & Clifford, C. (2020). Mississippi and Missouri Rivers: The Lifeblood of Indigenous Peoples. Journal of American History, 106(4), 1125-1130.
This journal article examines the cultural and spiritual significance of the Mississippi and Missouri Rivers to Indigenous peoples, highlighting their role as vital resources for sustenance, transportation, and spiritual practices.
Indian Country Today. (2020). Osage Nation History. Retrieved from https://indiancountrytoday.com/archive/osage-nation-history
An online resource providing historical context about the Osage Nation, their traditional lands, leadership, and ongoing cultural practices.
Gould, K. A., & Lewis, T. L. (2016). Environmental Sociology: From Analysis to Action (5th ed.). Oxford University Press.
This book discusses the impact of environmental issues on marginalized communities, including Native American populations, and the importance of sustainable practices informed by Indigenous knowledge.
Hale, J. R. (2019). St. Louis and the Delmar Divide: Historical Context and Modern Implications. Urban Studies, 56(12), 2403-2420.
This scholarly article addresses the racial and economic segregation in St. Louis, known as the “Delmar Divide,” and its implications for Black and marginalized communities.
Wilkinson, C. F. (2005). Blood Struggle: The Rise of Modern Indian Nations. W. W. Norton & Company.
A comprehensive examination of the struggles and resurgence of Native American tribes in the United States, focusing on their fight for sovereignty, rights, and recognition.
Painter, N. I. (2006). Creating Black Americans: African-American History and Its Meanings, 1619 to the Present. Oxford University Press.
This book explores African American history, focusing on the resilience and contributions of Black communities in the face of systemic oppression.
Lankford, G. E. (2007). Reachable Stars: Patterns in the Ethnoastronomy of Eastern North America. University of Alabama Press.
This work explores the astronomical practices and beliefs of Eastern North American Indigenous cultures, including those who inhabited the region around St. Louis.
Smith, A. (2022). Indigenous Land Acknowledgments and the Practice of Decolonization. Decolonization: Indigeneity, Education & Society, 11(1), 63-85.
A journal article discussing the importance of land acknowledgments as part of the decolonization process and their role in recognizing the history and rights of Indigenous peoples.
Additional References for those who appreciate a deeper dive than my basic overview above:
Weslager, C. A. (1996). The Delaware Indians: A History. Rutgers University Press.
Provides historical context about the Delaware (Lenape) peoples, their displacement, and their interactions with colonial settlers, which is useful for understanding the broader history of Indigenous displacement.
Prucha, F. P. (1995). The Great Father: The United States Government and the American Indians. University of Nebraska Press.
This book details the relationship between Native American tribes and the U.S. government, providing insight into policies and practices that led to land dispossession and systemic oppression.
Schroeder, S. L. (2004). Osage and Settler: Reconstructing Shared History through an Oklahoma Family Archive. Texas Tech University Press.
Offers a narrative that helps understand the interactions between Osage people and settlers, highlighting the complexities of land ownership and cultural exchange.
Kunnie, J. E., & Goduka, I. N. (Eds.). (2006). Indigenous Peoples’ Wisdom and Power: Affirming Our Knowledge Through Narratives. Ashgate Publishing, Ltd.
This anthology collects narratives from various Indigenous peoples, providing perspectives on wisdom, land, spirituality, and resistance against colonization.
Wilson, A. C., & Yellow Bird, M. (Eds.). (2005). For Indigenous Eyes Only: A Decolonization Handbook. School of American Research Press.
A valuable resource for understanding decolonization practices, which would be beneficial to reference in the context of your practice’s commitment to decolonization and liberation.
Hoxie, F. E. (2001). A Final Promise: The Campaign to Assimilate the Indians, 1880-1920. University of Nebraska Press.
Discusses the assimilation policies directed towards Native Americans, providing context for systemic oppression and its long-lasting impacts on Indigenous communities.
St. Louis Public Library. (n.d.). History of St. Louis. Retrieved from https://www.slpl.org/history-of-st-louis/
Offers an overview of the history of St. Louis, including the role of Native American communities and historical events that shaped the region.
Pauketat, T. R. (2004). Ancient Cahokia and the Mississippians. Cambridge University Press.
Provides a detailed examination of the Cahokia Mounds and the Mississippian culture, emphasizing its significance and contributions to the history of the St. Louis area.
Native American Rights Fund. (2020). Indigenous Peoples and Racial Justice: A Framework for Addressing Disparities. Retrieved from https://www.narf.org/indigenous-peoples-racial-justice/
This resource offers insights into the legal and social challenges faced by Indigenous communities today, emphasizing racial justice and the rights of Native peoples.
Brown, A. C. (2013). The Osage Tribe and the Mound Builders of Missouri: Revisiting the Past to Shape Our Future. Journal of American Indian Education, 52(1), 32-47.
This academic article discusses the historical and cultural connections between the Osage tribe and ancient mound-building cultures, relevant to the land acknowledgment's historical context.
