The move to return lands to the Shastas is supported by Siskiyou County. In November, the county board of supervisors unanimously voted to send a letter of support to the California Department of Fish and Wildlife on the tribe’s request.
In November 1851, several bands of Shastas, known as the “Upper Klamath” of the Shasta and Scott rivers, signed the third of 18 treaties negotiated with California tribes by agent Redick McKee. However, the U.S. Senate never ratified this treaty or the other 17, instead keeping them hidden for decades. Consequently, the Shastas, along with several hundred other California tribes, had to defend their territories against an increasing influx of gold miners, farmers, loggers, and other settlers, with minimal federal protection.
Currently, there are no plans to develop a casino, according to a tribal spokesperson. Instead, efforts will focus on restoring traditional food sources, medicinal and ceremonial plants to the land, and re-establishing basketry plants. These activities are anticipated to create jobs and business opportunities, as well as provide a reliable source of healthy foods. The Shastas also historically relied on salmon, and once the population has been restored, they may resume traditional fishing practices.
3 Comments
I have a friend, an artist, who is a member of the Shasta Nation by way of his mother. This is so huge for him and for the rest of the Shasta people. It’s about time.
Thank you Jay Martin. You provide an incredible service for your readers.
Thank you all for the work on getting our tribal lands back..My ancestors are doing the spirit dance ..My mother was Shasta and was fostered out to a white family when her mother died. Many kids had to find homes after the tribe was shattered by Gold Mioners , Settlers and Federal Government..Having some land to restore some of our forgotten traditions is a big step forward.. Thank you all