On July 18, 2025, members of Oregon's indigenous communities gathered in Salem to advocate for their land rights and demand better protections for sacred sites. The event, organized by the Confederated Tribes of Grand Ronde and other tribal groups, drew hundreds of supporters who echoed calls for greater recognition and preservation of indigenous lands.The issue of land rights has long been a contentious one in Oregon, where Native American tribes have faced historical injustices and ongoing challenges to their sovereignty. Many indigenous leaders at the rally highlighted the importance of ancestral lands not only for cultural and spiritual reasons but also for preserving environmental resources and biodiversity."Tribal lands are not just pieces of property, they are part of our identity and our connection to the earth," said Chief Delores Pigsley of the Confederated Tribes of Grand Ronde. "We are here to demand that our rights be respected and protected."One of the key issues at the forefront of the advocacy efforts is the proposed development of a liquefied natural gas (LNG) export terminal on the traditional lands of the Confederated Tribes of Coos, Lower Umpqua, and Siuslaw Indians. Members of the tribe worry that the project could have detrimental effects on the environment and their way of life."We will not stand idly by while our lands are exploited for profit at the expense of our people and our future generations," said Tribal Chairperson Dee Bigfoot. "We demand a seat at the table when decisions are being made that impact our lands and resources."In addition to the LNG terminal issue, indigenous leaders raised concerns about the lack of consultation and cooperation from state and federal authorities when it comes to land management and preservation. They called for more meaningful partnerships that prioritize tribal sovereignty and traditional ecological knowledge."We have been stewards of this land for thousands of years, and we have valuable insights to offer in terms of sustainable land management," said Chief Pigsley. "It is time for our voices to be heard and respected."As the rally concluded, participants vowed to continue their advocacy efforts and build alliances with other environmental and social justice organizations to protect indigenous lands and rights. The event served as a powerful reminder of the resilience and determination of Oregon's native populations in the face of ongoing challenges.
