November is Indigenous History Month. We acknowledge that Indigenous People of this land have endured centuries of displacement, discrimination and marginalization. We also celebrate the rich heritage, cultures and vast contributions of Native Peoples. They are the original inhabitants of the North American continent and as such Hudson Valley Community College resides on their land. In an effort to acknowledge the rich history of this culture, the college has its own Land Acknowledgement:
Hudson Valley Community College is located on the sacred homelands of the Muhheaconneok or Mohican people, who are the stewards of this land. Today the community resides in Wisconsin and is known as the Stockbridge-Munsee Mohican Nation. We pay honor and respect to their ancestors past, present and future, as we commit to building a more inclusive and equitable space for all.
Indigenous students represent less than one percent of our student population and they are encouraged to share and engage in college activities. In an effort to be more inclusive, the college has created an Indigenous Task Force to partner with Indigenous Communities across the state and Sault College in Saint Marie, Ontario, Canada. The Student Senate and the Office of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion are collaborating to create an Indigenous Medicinal Garden which will be enclosed in a greenhouse and located by the Student Pavilion.
The future greenhouse will be maintained by students and staff. The garden will feature an array of herbs and flowers known for their medicinal properties, arranged to symbolize interconnectedness and holistic healing practices, serving as a space for learning and cultural appreciation. Some of the medicinal plants to be cultivated are:
- Wild Bergamot aka Bee Balm (Monarda fistulosa)
- Goldenseal (Hydrastis canadenis)
- St. John’s Wort (Hypericum perforatum)
- Chamomile
The aim of this initiative is to cultivate a thriving, inclusive college campus, where indigenous cultures, knowledge and perspectives are integrated into campus life. Through education, community engagement and institutional support, we aim to create a welcoming and empowering environment that celebrates diversity, fosters cultural understanding and promotes academic success for all students, including indigenous learners.
Currently, the Marvin Library has a series of works by Indigenous authors on display. Please visit the library and review the work of some of these authors.
In service,
Office of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion