Protecting the Land Means Protecting Its History

Protecting the Land Means Protecting Its History

Proposition 45, Indigenous cultural heritage and our relationship with nature

When we speak about our relationship with nature, we must also recognize the Indigenous communities who have cared for these lands for generations.

This November, Californians will vote on Proposition 45, which proposes changes to environmental review laws to accelerate housing, transportation, clean energy and other development projects.

While supporters emphasize the need to reduce development delays, the Amah Mutsun Land Trust has raised an important concern: the measure would eliminate formal consultation rights for non-federally recognized tribes on qualifying projects, potentially leaving sacred sites, ancestral burial grounds and culturally significant landscapes vulnerable.

What does this have to do with Forest Therapy?

My work in Forest Therapy is about more than experiencing the health benefits of nature. It is about slowing down, restoring our attention and developing meaningful relationships with the natural world.

Those relationships come with responsibility. As I work to expand access to Forest Therapy, I believe it is essential to honor Indigenous knowledge, listen to the communities whose ancestral lands we experience and support meaningful environmental stewardship.

The Amah Mutsun Land Trust has announced its opposition to Proposition 45, citing concerns about tribal consultation and the protection of cultural heritage.

I encourage you to read their perspective, understand the proposed changes and make an informed decision.

Important voting dates

• October 5: Mail-in voting begins.

• October 19: Voter registration deadline.

• November 3: Election Day.

Learn more and prepare to vote:

• California's Official Proposition 45 Voter Guide

• California Voter Registration

• California's Guidance on Tribal Consultation

Inspired by the Amah Mutsun Land Trust's September 25, 2026 memorandum on Proposition 45 and tribal cultural heritage.

Our relationship with the land includes our responsibility to understand and respect its history.