Sonoma proclaims November as Native American Heritage Month; Graton Rancheria representative accepts

Mayor Farah Rivas read a proclamation declaring November 2025 as Native American Heritage Month in Sonoma, citing the city's location within the ancestral territory of the Federated Indians of Graton Rancheria and acknowledging the cultural and historical contributions of Native Americans. Rivas said the proclamation "encourages all residents to reflect upon the histories, cultures, and contributions of the Federated Indians of Graton Rancheria and all Native American people."

Robert Stafford, tribal council member at large for the Federated Indians of Graton Rancheria, accepted the proclamation on the tribe's behalf and briefly addressed the council, saying he had not prepared a speech but appreciated the acknowledgment. During remarks Stafford corrected the written name/pronunciation to "Graton." The council and staff took a photo and discussed placing the proclamation and gifts in display cases at City Hall.