24/09/2022
The map shows traditional territories of the 11 tribes that have cultural connections to Grand Canyon; (the canyon is shown in dark green).
“Native people are still here physically and so Grand Canyon has meaning for American Indians every day – when we say our prayers, sing our songs, and take part in our ceremonies. The foundation of our knowledge has a basis at Grand Canyon, and we maintain a modern day connection to the canyon.” – Lyle Balenquah, Hopi Tribe
Today, September 23rd, is Native American Day. It is a day to recognize and honor the cultures, traditions, and contributions of the Indigenous people who have been living on this land since time immemorial. It is also a reminder of their enduring legacy of strength, energy, and fortitude.
There are 574 recognized tribes in the US alone.
The Grand Canyon region is home to 11 of those tribes:
Havasupai, Hopi, Hualapai, Kaibab Band of Paiute Indians, Las Vegas Band of Paiute Indians, Moapa Band of Paiute Indians, Navajo Nation, Paiute Indian Tribe of Utah, San Juan Southern Paiute, The Pueblo of Zuni, and Yavapai-Apache Nation.
Listen, Watch and Learn - the Voices of Grand Canyon:
https://storymaps.arcgis.com/stories/b22a6a09bb2344ff845d9efd3e4152f7
Grand Canyon National Park, along with the 11 Tribes with deep cultural connections to the canyon — are working together to make the park a more inclusive space that provides Indigenous people a place to share their stories, culture, and traditions with the world.
We gratefully acknowledge the Native peoples on whose ancestral homelands we gather, as well as the diverse and vibrant Native communities who make their home here today.
