The Return of Native American Lands and Its Impact

Native American tribes have a long history of being displaced and having their ancestral lands taken away by the western expansion of the United States. This essay delves into the potential reaction of U.S. citizens and the government if Native Americans were to restore their land, focusing on the San Manuel Band of the Mission Indians reservation in Southern California.

Introduction

The San Manuel Band of Mission Indians is located in the San Bernardino mountains, near Highland, California. This reservation, established in 1891, has grown to be a commercially successful entity, largely due to its unabashed pursuit of economic development. The band's success is particularly evident in its ownership of a popular casino and its relentless pursuit of valuable real estate, such as the historic Arrowhead Springs Hotel Resort.

The Capitalistic Pursuit of Claims

San Manuel has capitalized on its claims to ancestral lands through strategic and determined efforts. This pursuit has led to the band owning thousands of acres of land, including the Arrowhead Springs property. Although these lands were once part of the ancestral territory of the Serrano Indians, they came under the control of settlers through the concept of manifest destiny.

The San Manuel Band's success is marked by the ownership and management of the Arrowhead Springs Hotel Resort, which is now in their hands. The closure of the historic hotel for over 60 years aside from special occasions and its surrounding vast land is a testament to their ownership and control. The band has successfully navigated the legal and economic landscape to reclaim the lands that were once theirs.

Legal and Political Implications

The successful legal pursuit of land ownership by the San Manuel Band raises questions about the future of Native American land rights in the United States. The band's actions could set a precedent for other tribes seeking to reclaim their ancestral lands. However, the impact of such movements on U.S. citizens and the government is significant.

U.S. Government Response

The U.S. government has a long and often tumultuous history with Native American tribes. Past treaties, forged in good faith, have often been broken, leaving a deep-seated mistrust among Native Americans. The government's response to a land rights movement initiated by the San Manuel Band could test the limits of its commitment to honoring treaties and respecting indigenous sovereignty.

One key issue is whether the government would uphold any new treaties made with Native American tribes, as it has a history of violating such agreements. The past actions of the U.S. government have shown a pattern of disregard for the rights of Native Americans, and a land rights movement could challenge the status quo.

Public Opinion and Reaction

Public reaction to a land rights movement would likely vary widely. Some U.S. citizens might support the return of Native American lands, recognizing the historical injustices and the importance of indigenous rights. However, others might oppose such movements, citing economic concerns or a sense of entitlement to the land they or their ancestors have occupied.

Economic developers and real estate investors, for instance, might view such a movement as a threat to their property and economic interests. This opposition could manifest in legal battles or political resistance. Additionally, the return of Native American lands could lead to shifts in local economies and property markets, potentially causing disruption in the areas where these lands are located.

Support and Advocacy

Support for the return of Native American lands should not be overlooked. Historians and advocates of indigenous rights see such movements as a vital step towards justice and reconciliation. Public figures, cultural organizations, and citizens' groups could rally support for Native American land rights, highlighting the historical context and the importance of healing these long-standing wounds.

Conclusion

The San Manuel Band's success in reclaiming their ancestral lands is a remarkable example of how economic power can be leveraged for indigenous rights. However, the broader impact on U.S. citizens and the government is significant, and the future of Native American land rights remains a complex and contentious issue.

As a society, it is crucial to continue engaging in discussions about historical injustices and working towards a more equitable and just future for Native American communities. The efforts of the San Manuel Band serve as a reminder of the importance of respecting indigenous sovereignty and the need for a continued dialogue between Native Americans and broader society.