A Message of Gratitude and Reflection

Dear Cal State East Bay Community,

As we approach the Fall Recess, I want to take this opportunity to share a message of gratitude and reflection with all of you. 

The third weekend in November is a time when many of us gather with friends and family to express gratitude for our blessings. It's a tradition that holds deep meaning and significance for numerous families and cultures with some celebrating Thanksgiving.

Let us also acknowledge that for some members of our community, the holiday of Thanksgiving may evoke complex emotions or reflect difficult histories.

It's important for us all to appreciate and respect the history of the land we consider our home. As we come together at Cal State University East Bay, situated across Hayward, Concord, and Oakland, CA, it's important to acknowledge that we are gathering on the ethno-historic tribal territory of the intermarried Jalquin (hal-keen) / Yrgin (eer-gen) Chochenyo-Ohlone-speaking tribal group. They are the direct ancestors of some lineages enrolled in the Muwekma Ohlone Tribe of the San Francisco Bay Area and who were missionized into Missions San Francisco, Santa Clara, and San Jose. We honor their enduring presence. Furthermore, we wish to recognize the Chochenyo Ohlone in Oakland, as well as the Bay Miwok, Delta Yokuts, and Chochenyo Ohlone in Concord. As some of us scatter during the recess we may be gathering on the lands of other Indigenous communities. 

During this time, let’s commit ourselves to learning from their histories and perspectives and reflect on the values of gratitude, unity, and respect for all cultures. Let us continue to learn from one another and uphold the principles of inclusivity and equity in everything we do.

In this season of reflection and appreciation, I am profoundly thankful for the dedication, passion, and unwavering commitment that you bring to our college community every day. May this time be a time of warmth, connection, and appreciation for one another as it is for my own family.  

Thank you, and may you have a joyful and peaceful break. 

Watch my video message: 

Best regards,

Cathy Sandeen
President 

November 22, 2023