The Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum recognizes that it resides within the ancestral homelands of the Tohono O’odham and the multi-millennial presence of the Pascua Yaqui. We honor these tribal nations, and commit to equal-partner relationships as we unite to inspire all people to live in harmony within the Sonoran Desert region.
— Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum Land Acknowledgement, adopted March 2024
The Tohono O'odham and Pasqua Yaqui have a rich and diverse history, and present day culture, that is intimately tied to the Sonoran Desert region in which the Desert Museum resides. This land acknowledgement is just one of many steps we are taking toward positive action that honors those people who came before us, and those who are here today. We realize that this acknowledgement is a small gesture that only becomes meaningful when coupled with real change and authentic relationships. To that end, we continue our commitment to honor relationships with the Tohono O’odham and Pascua Yaqui through our programming, exhibits, public events, strategic and interpretive planning, and community service.
Providing free admission to the Museum to all Indigenous peoples of the Americas is a continuing acknowledgement that the Desert Museum sits on Indigenous land, most recently, Tohono O'odham. Because this institution is regionally focused, access plays a vital role in fostering understanding, appreciation, and preservation of Native culture, traditions, and languages. It allows Tribal members to connect with their heritage and share their knowledge and experiences with others. For Native American people, controlling the narrative of their story leads to a more accurate and inclusive depiction of a shared history and culture in the region.
Furthermore, free admission ensures that all Native Americans have opportunities to engage with cultural and educational experiences at the Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum. By granting free admission to all Native Americans, we can actively promote cultural equity, raise awareness, foster collaborative relationships, and begin to reconcile historical injustices.
Would you like to learn more about Indigenous lands? This map from Native Land Digital shows which indigenous land you are on: