How Tongva Traditional Practices Saved Land in Eaton Fire

The Tongva people, the original inhabitants of the Los Angeles Basin, faced a devastating fire that threatened their newly acquired ancestral land near Eaton Canyon. The fire, which broke out on Jan. 7, consumed over 14,000 acres, causing significant damage to the property, including the destruction of an old stone house and a garage. However, thanks to traditional Indigenous practices implemented on the land, the losses could have been much worse.

Tongva Land Restoration and Stewardship

The Tongva Taraxat Paxaavxa Conservancy, a nonprofit dedicated to restoring and protecting Tongva land and cultural heritage in the L.A. region, played a crucial role in mitigating the fire’s impact. President Wallace Cleaves credits traditional stewardship practices, such as the removal of fire-prone eucalyptus trees, for reducing the wildfire’s impact. These practices not only helped in minimizing the damage but also allowed native plants to recover more effectively.

For thousands of years, the Tongva people thrived in the San Gabriel Mountains, utilizing the canyons for food and trade. However, centuries of displacement and colonization led to the loss of their ancestral homeland. Seeking to reclaim their heritage, the Tongva community worked tirelessly to restore the 1-acre property in Altadena, which had been returned to them after nearly two centuries.

Restoring Connection to Land

Sharon Alexander, the previous owner of the property, transferred the land to the Tongva people in 2022 after learning of its ancestral significance. Since then, the Tongva community has been actively restoring the land according to traditional ecological knowledge. By nurturing oak trees, removing invasive species, and clearing debris, they have created a space for community gatherings and traditional ceremonies.

Cultural burning, a traditional land stewardship practice, remains a goal for the Tongva people. Despite facing permitting challenges, the community is dedicated to preserving the Indigenous habitat and ensuring the land’s resilience against future threats like wildfires. Cleaves emphasized the importance of being good stewards of the land, highlighting the sacred connection the Tongva people have with the oak trees on the property.

Looking Towards the Future

As the Tongva community navigates the aftermath of the Eaton Canyon fire, there is hope for the land’s recovery and the continuation of cultural practices. Cleaves remains optimistic about the oak trees’ resilience and the possibility of hosting ceremonies on the property later this year. Experts like Nina Fontana stress the importance of incorporating Indigenous knowledge and practices into wildfire management and land stewardship efforts.

In the face of environmental challenges and the ongoing fight for Indigenous rights, the Tongva people stand as a testament to resilience, tradition, and community. The story of their ancestral land in Eaton Canyon serves as a reminder of the deep connection between people, land, and culture.