This Native American Heritage Month, we are acknowledging the ongoing effects of settler colonialism. We understand our responsibility as settlers and recognize the displacement, genocide, and past and present violence against Indigenous people on whose ancestral lands the present-day United States, including Maryland, stands. Progressive Maryland is committed to fostering a more just and equitable future for all Marylanders. All means all.

By Christianne Marguerite<>Progressive Maryland / I'm writing to you from my home in Baltimore, situated on the ancestral lands of the Piscataway people. On this day, where we collectively recognize the significance of gratitude, I would like to take a moment to be grateful for and honor the legacy — past, present, and future — of the Indigenous peoples of this land. 

This Native American Heritage Month, we are acknowledging the ongoing effects of settler colonialism. We understand our responsibility as settlers and recognize the displacement, genocide, and past and present violence against Indigenous people on whose ancestral lands the present-day United States, including Maryland, stands.

As we express gratitude, we extend special acknowledgment to the Accohannock Indian Tribe, Assateague Peoples Tribe, Nause-Waiwash Band of Indians, Piscataway Conoy Tribe, Piscataway Indian Nation, Pocomoke Indian Nation, and Youghiogheny River Band of Shawnee Indians as the original stewards of Maryland's lands.

In our commitment to fostering a more just and equitable future for all Marylanders, we advocate for federal and state legislation for reparations, formally acknowledge Indigenous history and land rights, and ensure that Native residents have access to essential resources such as affordable healthcare and housing, quality education, clean air and drinking water, and other basic human rights. Progressive Maryland remains dedicated to this ongoing work. This year, to put our money where our mouth is, we began a monthly contribution to the Cedarville Band of Piscataway Indians. 

Let us commit to finding ways to respect, support, and uplift our Indigenous friends and neighbors throughout the year. I encourage you to learn more about Indigenous history and cultures, and to actively contribute to this fight for justice.

Christianne Marguerite is Director of Communications at Progressive Maryland. This message went out to Progressive Maryland members and allies Thursday, November 23.