Land Acknowledgment Statement
Approved by Skyland Board of Stewards
8-12-2025

The land occupied by Skyland United Methodist Church is the ancestral land of the Anigiduwagi, commonly known as the Cherokee people. We are called by God to be in right relationship with the land and with our Cherokee neighbors, remaining grateful for the gifts of our Loving Creator.

In a spirit of humility, we confess that we and our ancestors have benefited from the harms inflicted upon our indigenous neighbors through broken treaties and other aggressions.  We commit to deepening our understanding and relationships; gratefully and respectfully honoring our Cherokee neighbors.  We admire and celebrate their strength and perseverance, as well as their creativity and joyful connection to their sacred traditions and culture. We pledge to be truthful storytellers and to seek reconciliation through authentic and meaningful connections. We pray that together we will enjoy and care for these beautiful mountains, rivers, lakes, and streams that we share.

For a history of Cherokee land cessions and the formation of Buncombe County, North Carolina, please see the Buncombe County Register of Deeds website: As Long As The Grass Shall Grow

For the UMC stance on Native American cultures, please see the UMC Book of Resolutions website(s):

Regarding Native American Culture and Traditions as Sacred
Native People and The United Methodist Church