BUSD celebrates mural recognizing Ohlone people

The Berkeley Unified School District (BUSD) recently unveiled a powerful new mural at one of its schools, honoring the Ohlone people, the Indigenous group whose ancestral lands the city of Berkeley occupies. The mural, created as part of a community-driven initiative, aims to raise awareness about the history and ongoing cultural presence of the Ohlone people in the Bay Area. This unveiling marks a significant moment in Berkeley's effort to recognize and celebrate its Indigenous heritage.

Among the key figures present at the unveiling was Adriana Betti, the Executive Director of R.I.S.E. Youth Berkeley and a member of the Native American and Alaska Native Women LeadStrong Fellowship. Betti, an advocate for Native American women’s rights and visibility, played an instrumental role in the development of this mural project. Her advocacy work is deeply connected to the themes of the mural, which seeks to acknowledge the past while promoting greater cultural understanding and respect for Native communities.

In her remarks at the event, Betti reflected on the importance of recognizing Indigenous history in educational spaces. She emphasized that the mural was more than just a work of art; it was a statement of resilience and a reminder of the deep connections between the land, its original stewards, and the present-day community. Betti's work with R.I.S.E., which focuses on empowering Indigenous youth and providing resources for Indigenous communities, was a key influence in ensuring that the project was culturally authentic and meaningful.

The mural itself, created in collaboration with local artists and Ohlone community members, features symbolic imagery that honors the Ohlone people's traditions, spirituality, and connection to the land. The design includes elements that tell the story of the Ohlone’s deep-rooted history in the Bay Area, as well as their continuing presence in modern society.

Adriana Betti’s involvement in the project exemplifies her commitment to amplifying Native voices and supporting initiatives that challenge historical erasure. As a member of the Native American and Alaska Native Women LeadStrong fellowship, she has worked to create spaces where Indigenous women can lead and make decisions that impact their communities. Her leadership continues to inspire both Native and non-Native allies in the push for greater recognition and respect for Indigenous cultures.

This mural is part of a broader movement within BUSD and the greater Berkeley community to acknowledge the Indigenous peoples who have been historically marginalized. By honoring the Ohlone people in such a visible and permanent way, the district is taking steps to build a more inclusive and culturally aware future.

The event was celebrated by students, teachers, and community members alike, many of whom expressed hope that this mural would inspire future generations to learn about and appreciate Indigenous history and culture. For Betti, this mural is a tangible symbol of progress—one that reflects a larger effort to educate the public, restore Indigenous sovereignty, and honor the rich history of the Ohlone people.

In conclusion, the unveiling of the mural in Berkeley marks a pivotal moment for the community, bringing Indigenous culture into the public consciousness while providing an important opportunity for reflection and learning. With leaders like Adriana Betti at the helm, the effort to elevate and honor Indigenous voices is gaining momentum in the Bay Area and beyond.