SUNY Niagara Adopts Official Land Acknowledgment

In recognition of Indigenous Peoples’ Day, observed Monday, October 12, we would like to share an important step in our ongoing commitment to recognizing the history, culture, and contributions of Indigenous peoples and the communities whose ancestral lands we share.

The SUNY Niagara Justice, Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (JEDI) Committee drafted a Land Acknowledgment, which the Board of Trustees formally approved on May 19, 2026. The Land Acknowledgment reflects our commitment to honoring the Indigenous peoples whose histories, cultures, and enduring connections to this region remain an important part of our shared story.

SUNY Niagara Land Acknowledgment

We acknowledge that the land on which SUNY Niagara stands is the traditional territory of the Haudenosaunee.

This land carries the stories, culture, and resilience of Indigenous peoples who continue to live in this region today. Recognizing this history calls us to reflect on our shared responsibility to promote respect, justice, and understanding within our campus and beyond.

A Land Acknowledgment is more than a statement. It is an opportunity to show respect, increase awareness, and recognize the enduring presence and contributions of Indigenous peoples in our region.

When and How to Use the Land Acknowledgment

To encourage consistent use across SUNY Niagara, we ask employees to include the approved Land Acknowledgment in appropriate college communications and activities:

• College ceremonies and events: Include the Land Acknowledgment or read it aloud at events attended by members of the broader community, such as Commencement, formal ceremonies, and other significant college gatherings.
• Event publications and materials: Display the Land Acknowledgment in SUNY Niagara event publications and related materials so that our commitment is visible and communicated consistently.
• Email signatures: Employees are welcome to add the Land Acknowledgment to their email signatures if they wish.

We encourage everyone to become familiar with the Land Acknowledgment and to consider how its message can be meaningfully incorporated into our work and campus activities.

By sharing and using the Land Acknowledgment, we can continue to build a campus community grounded in respect, understanding, and belonging.