Albany City Council opens special meeting with land acknowledgment recognizing Ohlone people

The Albany City Council opened its May 11, 2026, special meeting with a land acknowledgment read by Preston. The reading stated that the council "recognizes that we occupy the land originally protected by the Confederated Villages of the Shawn" and specifically named the Ohlone tribe.

During the reading Preston said, "We acknowledge the genocide that took place on these lands and must make strides to repay the moral debt that is owed to this indigenous people, specifically the Ohlone tribe." The statement concluded by saying the city "commits to sustaining ongoing with the tribe and together build a better future."

The land acknowledgment was followed by routine roll call and by the announcement of a closed-session personnel item. No public comments were recorded during the meeting.