Honoring Long Beach's Indigenous Legacy: Exploring the Rich Heritage of the Tongva People

Here at The Rivera Group we love talking about all the Long Beach small businesses, cool eateries and fun architecture. But in order to truly connect to this wonderful city it’s important to acknowledge and pay homage to its original peoples. The Tongva people, also known as the Gabrielino-Tongva Tribe, are indigenous to the Los Angeles Basin area, which includes present-day Long Beach, CA. They have a rich history dating back thousands of years, with their culture deeply intertwined with the land and resources of the region.

Here are some key points about their heritage:

1. Territory: The Tongva people traditionally inhabited the Los Angeles Basin, including present-day Los Angeles County, parts of Orange County, and the Channel Islands.
2. Lifestyle: They were a coastal people, relying on marine resources like fish, shellfish, and sea mammals, as well as plants and animals from the surrounding areas for their sustenance.
3. Language: The Tongva language, also known as Gabrielino, is a Uto-Aztecan language. While much of the language has been lost, efforts have been made to revive and preserve it.
4. Culture: Their culture was rich in art, music, dance, and storytelling. They had unique ceremonial practices and constructed dome-shaped houses known as "kiiy" or "kich." These homes were made from willow poles and tule reeds.
5. Colonial Impact: With the arrival of Spanish settlers in the 18th century, the Tongva people faced displacement, disease, and cultural disruption. The mission system played a significant role in changing their way of life.
6. Survival and Revival: Despite the challenges, the Tongva people have persisted and continue to maintain their cultural heritage. There are ongoing efforts to revive their language, traditions, and connections to the land.
7. Recognition: The Tongva people have been seeking federal recognition as a tribe, which would grant them certain rights and resources to support their community and cultural preservation.

If you're curious to dive deeper, look up the Gabrielino-Tongva Springs Foundation and other cool groups in LA that are all about celebrating this amazing heritage. 🌴🌊