In a significant legislative session, California lawmakers unanimously supported Assembly Concurrent Resolution 140 (ACR 140), which recognizes California Native American Day and the annual California Indian Cultural Awareness Conference. This resolution, championed by Assemblymember Ramos, aims to honor the resilience and contributions of California's Indigenous peoples while addressing historical injustices.

During the meeting, various assembly members highlighted the importance of acknowledging the state's dark history, including the genocide and atrocities committed against Native American tribes. Governor Newsom's 2019 apology to these communities was noted as a pivotal moment in California's journey toward reconciliation. Since then, several legislative measures have been enacted to improve relations with Native tribes, including granting tribal police access to law enforcement databases and establishing a monument on Capitol grounds to honor local tribes.

Assemblymember Lee emphasized the significance of the conference as a platform for educators and youth to learn about Native American history, particularly the impact of European colonization on Indigenous cultures, including the erasure of two-spirit and LGBTQ+ narratives. Assemblymember Weber echoed this sentiment, stressing the need for education on the shared struggles of Black and Native American communities against systemic oppression.

The resolution also garnered support from various caucuses, including the LGBTQ, Black, Jewish, and Latino Legislative Caucuses, all of which underscored the importance of unity and collective responsibility in addressing the needs of vulnerable populations. Assemblymember Cervantes pointed out the ongoing challenges faced by Indigenous communities, such as housing insecurity and the crisis of missing and murdered Indigenous women.

As the session concluded, Assemblymember Ramos expressed gratitude for the support received and reiterated the commitment to honoring California's first peoples. The meeting culminated in a celebration featuring performances from various tribal nations, further emphasizing the cultural richness and resilience of Indigenous communities in California.