Marquette University’s land and water acknowledgment is a statement that developed over weeks of reflection and conversation led by Indigenous student leadership with key faculty and staff. The statement recognizes the long history of Native peoples and nations that lived on and stewarded the land and water where the university now resides. It also celebrates the unbroken connection Native people and nations still have to this land and waterways, their traditional territories.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does Marquette have a land and water acknowledgment?
A land and water acknowledgment is a way of offering respect to Indigenous citizens, both those who have come before and those currently living here; correcting the practice of erasing Indigenous people’s history; and recognizing that Indigenous peoples continue to be a vital part of our country’s lands now and in the future.
Beyond ceremonial oration, true reconciliation comes with a responsibility to take action to learn about the living history of the lands Marquette occupies and create meaningful alliances with those diverse Indigenous communities and people who remain connected to these lands and with those now making their home on them.
When can Marquette’s land and water acknowledgment be read?
The land and water acknowledgment can be read aloud at the beginning of any event hosted on Marquette’s campus, either in person or virtually.
Who can read Marquette’s land and water acknowledgment?
Anyone who feels and recognizes the importance of the land and water acknowledgment statement and can authentically communicate its significance in relation to Marquette is welcome to read it. The statement is intended to stir critical reflection about one’s place on the land. The significance of the statement is achieved through ensuring the audience is attentive and delivering the message with attention to tone, emphasis and pacing.
How else can the land and water acknowledgment be used?
In addition to programmatic events on campus, as well as meetings and lectures, the acknowledgment can be shared in digital spaces like websites, in syllabi and in email signatures.