Restoration of Huhuunga: A Step Toward Healing and Rematriation for the Tongva People
On September 25, the Tongva Taraxat Paxaavxa Conservancy unveiled the successful completion of the first phase of restoration at Huhuunga, a historically significant one-acre site overlooking Eaton Canyon in Altadena, California. This location, meaning “Place of the Bears,” once served as a hunting camp for the Tongva people and has profound cultural and historical significance. In March 2022, for the first time in over two centuries, the Tongva regained stewardship of this land, marking a pivotal moment in the broader Land Back movement, which advocates for returning Indigenous homelands to their original caretakers.
The Significance of Huhuunga
Huhuunga represents more than just a geographical location; it embodies the ancestral ties of the Tongva people to the land that has been their home for millennia. The land was generously donated by a private owner, a decision that underscores a growing recognition of the importance of Indigenous rights and land stewardship in contemporary society. This act of returning land to its rightful custodians symbolizes a step towards rectifying historical injustices.
A Space for Cultural Renewal
The initial phase of work at Huhuunga included the construction of essential features such as a ceremonial circle, benches crafted from salvaged California trees, and traditional posts designed by Tongva artist River Garza. These features are not mere structures; they hold cultural significance and play a vital role in the revitalization of Tongva practices and community gatherings. The site was first utilized during a fall equinox gathering on September 21, where community members came together to celebrate their cultural heritage.
Voices from the Conservancy
Wallace Cleaves, chair of the conservancy’s board, expressed the depth of connection the Tongva people feel toward Huhuunga: “This land is a living relative, and every step we take here is part of our story of rematriation.” His words resonate with the sense of healing that comes from reconnecting with ancestral lands, especially after the hardships faced by the community due to past displacements and environmental challenges.
Recovery After the Eaton Fire
The journey of restoration at Huhuunga has not been without its trials. The Eaton Fire, which occurred in January 2025, ravaged thousands of acres in the canyon, further complicating the conservancy’s efforts. Many areas of the property sustained significant damage, including oak groves and native plant life, which are vital to the ecosystem and cultural practices. However, driven by community volunteers and traditional ecological knowledge, recovery efforts have been reinvigorated. The involvement of the community in the restoration efforts reflects a commitment to preserving both the land and the traditions associated with it.
A Vision for the Future
Huhuunga is envisioned as a gathering space where the Tongva people can practice their cultural traditions, foster community connections, and engage in stewardship of their ancestral territories. The site lies within the larger context of the Tongva’s ancestral lands, which include present-day Los Angeles County and the Southern Channel Islands. As the restoration continues, Huhuunga stands as a beacon of hope, not only for the Tongva community but also for Indigenous peoples striving for recognition and reclamation of their heritage across the nation.
Through initiatives like that of the Tongva Taraxat Paxaavxa Conservancy, the stories and traditions of the Tongva people can be revitalized, preserving them for future generations while also fostering a profound connection to their ancestral landscapes.