This letter to the editor was contributed by Valentin Lopez of the Amah Mutsun Tribal Band. The opinions expressed do not necessarily represent BenitoLink or other affiliated contributors. Lea este artÃculo en español aquÃ.
Leaders of the Amah Mutsun Tribal Band were dismayed to read the misleading letter published here on January 6 by Rider McDowell regarding the controversial Betabel Project, a more than 100,000 square-foot commercial roadside attraction in unincorporated San Benito County located on our Tribe’s sacred ancestral lands. The McDowell family says the project was inspired by their son, who suffered an untimely death due to cancer. We offer our sincere condolences to the McDowell family for the loss of their child.
Unfortunately, Mr. McDowell’s description of both the cultural resources found on the property and the requests our Tribe has made to protect those resources were incorrect.
Our lawsuit against the project was filed in 2022. Anyone who is interested in the extensive evidence that this site holds tremendous cultural, spiritual, and historical significance to the Amah Mutsun people can read our original court filing (see especially pages 9-12).
Just as the McDowells have shared their sincere story of family tragedy, we, too, have experienced tragedy in connection to this land. From time immemorial until colonization, Amah Mutsun people lived on and near this property. Our deep connection to this land was violently disrupted by genocide, forced removal, and land theft. Any concerns we have shared with the family, either through legal filings or in confidential negotiations, are in no way intended to undermine their desire to honor their son’s memory.
Our requests of the McDowells during negotiations were straightforward and reasonable. We are dismayed and disappointed to see their gross mischaracterization of our sincere attempts at compromise. We are all looking for a way forward that honors each of our personal and Tribal traumas and allows for healing.
Sincerely,
Valentin Lopez
Chairman
Amah Mutsun Tribal Band
BenitoLink invites all community members to share their ideas and opinions. By registering as a BenitoLink user in the top right corner of our home page and agreeing to follow our Terms of Use, you can write counter opinions or share your insights on current issues.Â