Save the Knoll Organizers Keeping Pressure on Santa Cruz City Hall

Native News Network Staff in Native Challenges. Discussion »

March Monday

SANTA CRUZ, CALIFORNIA - The organizers of the Save the Knoll are keeping the pressure on the Santa Cruz city council.

On this coming Monday morning, September 19, a closed-door meeting is scheduled at Santa Cruz City Hall with KB Home, the City of Santa Cruz, and Ohlone elders.

KB Home, a housing developer, is attempting to push forward with planned construction of seven new homes on the Branciforte Creek Knoll, an ancient Ohlone village and burial site in Santa Cruz. Earlier this summer, the remains of two Ohlone Indians were discovered on the site.

The organizers are fearful that KB Home and the City are preparing to defy the anticipated recommendation of Ohlone elders that the entire Knoll be preserved as a sacred Ohlone site. After arriving at City Hall, we will remain outside holding a vigil for the duration of this 10:00 am closed-door meeting, awaiting the result.

The organizers are asking:

That the Ohlone Elders' requests be honored and acted upon;

A public City Council meeting regarding the Knoll before any City decision is made; and

Permanent protection of the entire Knoll as a sacred site through a cultural easement.

WHAT:     Save the Knoll March

WHEN:     Monday, September 19

TIME:     9:00 am pdt

WHERE:     Mission Plaza
103 Emmett Street at Mission
near Holy Cross Church
Santa Cruz, California

posted September 17, 2011 12:20 pm edt