This resolution was proposed by Pomo dancer Armando Williams and artist Sandy Eastoak, introduced by Councilman Larry Robinson, and Ípassed by the Sebastopol City Council on May 4, 2010:

 

Annual Pomo Honoring Month

 

RESOLUTION NO. 5793

 

WHEREAS, the Pomo were the original people of the land now occupied by the City of Sebastopol; and

 

WHEREAS, the Pomo maintained a harmonious relationship with ecology of the area, including knowledgeable and respectful harvesting of animals, plants, and mineral resources; and

 

WHEREAS, the Pomo people have struggled to maintain health, identity, prosperity, and cultural traditions since the settling of their land by Euro-Americans; and

 

WHEREAS, their wisdom and crafts traditions hold important values for our community;

 

WHEREAS, all of our citizens will benefit from a more active and visible input of Pomo people into the decisions and activities of our community;

 

WHEREAS, the City of Sebastopol hereby resolves that each month of October shall be Annual Pomo Honoring Month, and encourages business owners, educators, artists, and all our citizens to participate in making each October an occasion for joy, learning, and prosperity.

 

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the City of Sebastopol does hereby recognize each October as the Annual Pomo Honoring Month.

 

PASSED, APPROVED AND ADOPTED this 4th day of May, 2010, by the following vote:

 

AYES: Councilmembers Robinson, Shaffer, Kelley, Vice Mayor Wilson and Mayor Gurney

NOES: None

ABSTAIN: None

ABSENT: None

 

(Signed by) SARAH GLADE GURNEY, MAYOR

(Attested by) MARY GOURLEY, CITY CLERK

 

Recognition of Federated Indians of Graton Rancheria

On September 21, 2010, the Sebastopol City Council voted to adopt a resolution specifically recognizing the Federated Indians of Graton Rancheria as representing the descendants of our area's original inhabitants:

Resolution 5818. Passage of this Resolution greatly helped Pomo Honoring Month to go forward as an inclusive celebration.

 

 

Info: sandoak@pomo-honor.org. See also www.sebastopol-gallery.com and www.pomo-honor.blogspot.com.