Honoring Miwok Land with Our New Cup Design
- Lucina
- Nov 15, 2025
- 3 min read
Updated: Nov 17, 2025
Acknowledging the land we stand on is a meaningful step toward respecting the history and culture of the original inhabitants. Our cup design proudly features the phrase "We are on Coast Miwok land" as a tribute to the Coast Miwok people, past and present-day, who have cared for this region for thousands of years. This blog post explores why this acknowledgment matters, how it connects us to the past, and the story behind our new cup design.
Why Land Acknowledgment Matters
Land acknowledgment is more than a phrase. It is a recognition of the original stewards of the land and their ongoing connection to it. For many Indigenous communities, this connection is spiritual, cultural, and deeply rooted in their identity.
Respect for history: The Coast Miwok people have lived in the region for thousands of years, long before modern settlements. And currently, still own land in Marin!
Awareness: It encourages people to learn about Indigenous histories and cultures.
Building relationships: It opens pathways for dialogue and collaboration with Indigenous communities.
By including "We are on Coast Miwok land" on our cups, we invite everyone to pause and reflect on these important truths.
The Coast Miwok People and The Land
The Miwok are a group of Native American people who traditionally inhabit areas of Northern California. Their territory spans from the Sacramento Valley to the Sierra Nevada foothills and the San Francisco Bay Area.
Cultural practices: The Coast Miwok have rich traditions in basket weaving, storytelling, and ceremonies tied to the natural world.
Connection to nature: Their lifestyle was closely linked to the land’s plants, animals, and waterways.
Historical challenges: Colonization and displacement deeply affected the Coast Miwok communities, yet the culture remains vibrant today!
Understanding this background helps us appreciate why honoring their land is essential.
The Story Behind Our Cup Design
We wanted to create a product that does more than serve coffee or tea. We aimed to spark conversation and respect for the land’s original caretakers.
Design inspiration: The phrase "We are on Coast Miwok land" was chosen to be clear and direct.
This design is a small but meaningful way to keep the Coast Miwok presence visible in everyday life.
How You Can Support Indigenous Communities
Acknowledging land is a starting point. Here are practical ways to support Indigenous peoples and their cultures:
Learn about local tribes: Visit museums, read books, or attend cultural events focused on Coast Miwok history, and meet the present-day Coast Miwok people.
Support Indigenous artists and businesses: Purchase handmade crafts or products created by Native artisans.
Advocate for land protection: Join efforts to preserve sacred sites and natural habitats important to Coast Miwok communities.
Engage respectfully: When visiting Indigenous lands or events, follow guidelines and show respect for traditions.
These actions help build stronger connections and respect for Indigenous peoples.
The Impact of Everyday Reminders
Small gestures like our cup design can have a big impact over time. When people see the phrase "We are on Coast Miwok land," it encourages reflection and conversation.
Raising awareness: It brings Indigenous history into daily routines.
Encouraging respect: It reminds users to honor the land and its original caretakers.
Fostering inclusion: It supports Indigenous visibility in public spaces.
By integrating acknowledgment into everyday items, we help keep Indigenous stories alive.
Moving Forward with Respect
Our commitment to honoring Coast Miwok land does not end with this cup. We plan to continue learning, listening, and supporting Indigenous communities in meaningful ways.
This journey is ongoing, and we invite you to join us in recognizing and respecting the land we share.
Get your Raffle tickets today at www.marinmiwok.com/shop and possibly win this beautiful cup! Raffle tickets are $2.
Good luck!
