San Francisco, CA – March 12, 2025 – The Muwekma Ohlone Tribe has made a historic appeal to President Donald J. Trump, formally requesting the return of the Presidio of San Francisco to its rightful aboriginal title holders. This initiative is being called a premier opportunity for the ongoing #LandBack movement, which seeks to address long-standing injustices faced by indigenous people across the United States and marks a significant step towards the cultural renaissance and political empowerment of the Ohlone people.
The tribe’s Chairwoman, Charlene Nijmeh, expressed gratitude in her letter to President Trump for the proposal to dissolve the Presidio Trust, the federal agency managing the former military base since 1996, which they view as an opportunity for accountability and efficiency in governance. This initiative comes as the tribe has faced opposition from major political figures, including former Senator Diane Feinstein and Speaker Emerita Nancy Pelosi, who have historically resisted the tribe’s efforts to affirm its federal status and reclaim their ancestral lands.
Nijmeh stated, “The return of the Presidio of San Francisco to its aboriginal title holders would constitute an extraordinary act of reconciliation,” highlighting the historical significance of the land, which has been inhabited by Ohlone ancestors for generations. The tribe emphasizes that they have never relinquished their claim to the land, which has a painful history tied to colonial conquest and the forced assimilation of Indigenous populations.
By reclaiming the Presidio, the Muwekma Ohlone Tribe is not only seeking to rectify historical wrongs but also aims to bring substantial benefits to the region, including fiscal, economic, political, and cultural improvements. The tribe argues that they possess unique traditional ecological knowledge that will drive sustainable practices in land management, and will eliminate operational costs for taxpayers. They envision elevating the Presidio into a premier tourism destination, enhancing local economies through authentic cultural programming.
“The return of our ancestral lands is not just a matter of justice; it would symbolize a broader commitment to reconciliation and respect for Indigenous sovereignty,” Nijmeh contended. She called on the administration to exercise its power under Section 7 of the Indian Reorganization Act of 1934 to officially proclaim the Presidio as a new Indian Reservation for the Muwekma Ohlone people.
The Tribe’s request embodies a hopeful vision of cultural renaissance for Indigenous communities in the Bay Area. The tribe believes that the Presidio’s return represents a chance to foster brighter futures for their people while building strong relationships with the broader San Francisco community.
As discussions around land repatriation and Indigenous rights continue to gain national attention, the Muwekma Ohlone Tribe’s request stands as a testament to resilience and the enduring struggle for recognition and justice. The news has sparked a conversation about the historical significance of land ownership and the importance of honoring Indigenous heritage across the United States.
The Muwekma Ohlone Tribe’s proposal underscores a multifaceted approach to rematriating the Presidio, emphasizing the historic and cultural significance of the land to the Ohlone people. Recognizing that the Presidio has long been a symbol of colonialism and historical trauma, the tribe articulated its vision for transforming this site into a center of cultural heritage and education. The proposal details a strategic framework aimed at not only reclaiming land but also reviving traditions and narratives that celebrate the enduring legacy of the Ohlone peoples.
One of the central objectives outlined in the proposal is the acknowledgment of historical injustices inflicted upon the Muwekma Ohlone people. By recognizing the displacement and disenfranchisement of Indigenous populations through centuries of colonial conquest, the tribe seeks to re-establish their rightful connection to the land. This reclamation would facilitate a cultural renaissance, allowing tribal members to reconnect with ancestral practices, language, and traditional ecological knowledge that have been suppressed over generations. The tribe believes that this revitalization will not only benefit its members but also enrich the cultural fabric of the broader Bay Area community.
The Tribe’s proposal highlights the fiscal benefits of transferring management of the Presidio back to the Tribe. By implementing a locally-focused governance model, the Muwekma Ohlone Tribe aims to create a sustainable financial framework that alleviates the fiscal burdens currently borne by federal, state, and local taxpayers. The Tribe is poised to utilize its deep understanding of the land to manage it more efficiently, embodying practices stemming from centuries of harmonious living with the natural environment. The promise of reduced operational costs, while still preserving the ecological and cultural integrity of the Presidio, forms a compelling case for its return.
In addition to fiscal benefits, the proposal articulates a vision for elevating the Presidio as a leading destination for cultural tourism. The Muwekma Ohlone Tribe intends to offer visitors immersive experiences that reflect the history, artistry, and spirituality of the Ohlone people. By designing educational programming, guided tours, and cultural events, the tribe aims to broaden public understanding of Indigenous history while fostering respect and appreciation for the land’s significance. This initiative will not only bolster tourism but also create economic opportunities for local businesses, contributing to an overall resurgence in the area’s economy.
Finally, the proposal emphasizes the political implications of returning the Presidio to the Muwekma Ohlone Tribe. It frames this act of repatriation as a commitment to Indigenous sovereignty, offering an opportunity for the federal government to engage meaningfully with Native communities. By dismantling entrenched political patronage that has historically marginalized Indigenous voices, the return of the Presidio would symbolize a shift toward equitable governance and reconciliation. The Muwekma Ohlone Tribe urges the administration to recognize the profound impact of such a decision, which could reverberate throughout Indian Country and set a powerful precedent for other tribes seeking justice and self-determination.
The Tribe has made assurances to local officials that current tenant leases will be renewed, and that no residents or commercial tenants will be displaced. More information can be found on the Tribe’s website: muwekma.org/presidio. To support the project, you can reach the Tribe at muwekma@muwekma.org.
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