A land acknowledgement given our plans to build an Institute in Santa Fe, New Mexico:

We humbly acknowledge those who walked, nurtured, and protected these lands before us, honoring their enduring presence and the living spirits of all beings. We recognize that the place we now call "Santa Fe, New Mexico" is traditionally known as O’Ga P’Ogeh Owingeh—the White Shell Water Place—a sacred center for the Northern and Southern Tewa peoples that include the people of Nambé Pueblo, Pojoaque Pueblo, San Ildefonso Pueblo, Ohkay Owingeh, Santa Clara Pueblo, and Tesuque Pueblo.

For thousands of years, this land has been a vibrant gathering place, a nexus of life, culture, and exchange. It exists within a vast, sovereign landscape that continues to hold deep significance for Indigenous nations. 

We also acknowledge and honor the enduring connections of the Diné (Navajo), Cochiti, Taos, and Hopi peoples, among many others, who have woven their stories, traditions, and wisdom into this landscape. This acknowledgment extends to all Indigenous communities whose voices and histories are interwoven with this place—some known, and others whose stories are yet to be fully told.

In gratitude and respect, 
Josh Bernstein
Founder & Chair
First Light Group