This item presents a request from the Indigenous Justice Coalition and student representatives acting on behalf of the Muwekma Ohlone Tribe for the City Council to consider adopting a resolution supporting the Tribe’s federal recognition. The draft resolution highlights the Tribe’s historical and cultural presence in the Bay Area and its prior recognition as the Verona Band.

The item is being brought forward as part of the City Manager’s Report at the request of Mayor Singh. If the Council supports the resolution, staff will transmit it to federal agencies and the Bay Area congressional delegation to advocate for the Tribe’s inclusion on the federal list of recognized tribes.

This item aligns with the City’s Strategic Plan Goal E. Communication and Outreach by strengthening relationships with historically underrepresented communities and promoting cultural awareness and inclusivity. It also supports Goal C. Economic, Community Development, and Public Safety by recognizing the historical presence and contributions of Indigenous communities in the region.

On June 29, 2025, a representative from the Indigenous Justice Coalition, on behalf of the Muwekma Ohlone Tribe, submitted a request for the City Council to consider a resolution in support of the Tribe’s federal recognition. The Muwekma Ohlone Tribe has ancestral ties to the San Francisco Bay Area and has sought federal recognition for decades.

The request was forwarded to the Mayor and City staff for consideration. Mayor Singh confirmed that the item could be presented during the City Manager’s Report at the July 22, 2025, Council meeting to allow for public discussion.

A draft resolution was submitted by the delegation, outlining the historical presence of the Muwekma Ohlone Tribe, their recognized status as the Verona Band between 1906 and 1927, and their continued efforts to regain federal recognition. The resolution also highlights the Tribe’s longstanding cultural, military, and civic contributions.

If adopted, the resolution calls on the U.S. Congress and Department of the Interior to officially recognize the Muwekma Ohlone Tribe and directs the City Manager to transmit the adopted resolution to the Bay Area congressional delegation and relevant federal agencies.

There is no fiscal impact associated with adoption of the resolution. If approved, staff time related to preparation and transmittal of the resolution will be absorbed within existing departmental budgets.

Staff recommends that the City Council receive the presentation from the student delegation in support of the Muwekma Ohlone Tribe and consider whether to adopt a resolution urging the United States Congress, the White House, the Department of the Interior, and the Bureau of Indian Affairs to formally acknowledge the Tribe’s federal recognition.