I write in reverence and respect to one known as Lupe Alvarado, whose ancestry extends beyond at least 4,000 years in this beautiful part of the world known as Sonoma County. It was in 1891 that Lupe gave birth to her daughter, Sarah, on the Walker Ranch in Sebastopol. Sarah would later have several children of her own, including a daughter , Guadalupe, my mother. It was on the Walker Ranch that Lupe Alvarado gave birth also to her son, Grant Smith, in 1906. It was on the Walker Ranch overlooking the Laguna that Lupe Alvarado was laid to rest at an early age. I write at a profound moment in the history of this community, especially as it concerns the Native cultures. The City Council of Sebastopol appears poised to approve the shameful desecration of those Native people, including Lupe Alvarado, buried on what was the Walker Ranch. I am referring to what is known as the Palm Terrace development, a project that entails the construction of several 4000 square-foot estates on all that is left of the undeveloped land, where my great-grandmother is buried. What a tragic epilog to the history of Native people of Sonoma County -- a history laden with genocide, slavery, and cultural devastation. A history of beauty, resilience, and resistance to the overwhelming forces of destruction. In light of this most egregious insult to the spirit and consciousness of the local Native American community, how blatantly ironic it is that Sonoma County has just recently named its new high school "Elsie Allen," to honor and respect this exceptional and renowned individual. An unprecedented gesture to at last recognize the exquisite beauty and artistry of the local Native cultures that Elsie Allen exemplified. What message can this glaring hypocrisy engender for future generations but one of contempt, anger and disgrace for the leaders of the whole community. This modern atrocity will not be swept beneath the rug of ignorance nor hidden behind a veil of lies and deception. As the tactics of genocide have become more subtle and sophisticated, so have the avenues of resistance. Every printed and electronic media source, every local educational institution, every local government, every civic organization should and will be made aware of this outrageous act of indignity. On a hill overlooking the city of Sebastopol are buried many, among them my father Joseph. Every City Council member and every member of this community knows it would be wrong to disturb and desecrate this sacred land. On some beautiful land overlooking the Laguna de Santa Rosa known as Palm Terrace, are buried many, among them my great-grandmother, Lupe Alvarado. Every City Council member and every member of this community knows it would be wrong to disturb and desecrate this sacred land. May the City Council of Sebastopol have the strength and courage to avoid this transgression, and alter this course of history. May they walk away from the meeting on Tuesday, September 19, 1995, with their hearts and spirits in peace.

	-- Alexis Canillo Glen Ellen

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