This publication was created by the inaugural Gabrielino Tongva Springs Summer Internship cohort of 2026. Over the summer, the interns were introduced to various topics, including decolonial and Indigenous methods of knowledge-making, the importance of oral histories, archaeological perspectives that enrich the deep history of Tovangaar, and land and water stewardship.
Throughout the program, we centered relationality as a way to understand the complexities of Kuruvungna while continuing to advocate for autonomy and rights to sacred and historic places. At the same time, we honored the legacies and stories of the Gabrielino Tongva community and local community members of Kuruvungna and West Los Angeles.
The cohort included seven students, ranging from high school to graduate school. Their topics explore trans-Pacific connections and Tongva maritime practices; pathways of significance carved into cogged stones; the impacts of settler colonial law on Native American rights; community activism to protect, revitalize, and save Kuruvungna from destruction; and ongoing practices of stewardship.
We would like to thank the many community supporters who contributed to this pilot internship: Angie, an elder and member of the San Gabriel Band of Mission Indians, Gabrielino/Tongva, and founder of GTSF, for sharing stories about saving the Springs; Bob Ramirez, President of the Gabrielino Tongva Springs Foundation, for sharing his deep knowledge of Kuruvungna and the history and ecology of Santa Monica and California; UCLA representatives for serving as thought partners throughout the program; Erin and Greg from the Getty Quire team; Leslie, Daniel, and Jeff from the Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County; and Desiree Martinez (Gabrielino Tongva), Joey Williams (Kawaiisu), and Austin Ringelstein for sharing their knowledge and stories of ongoing advocacy for Native American cultural heritage and resurgent futures.
Special thanks to the GTSF Land and Waters Stewardship Team — Daniel, Adam, Ben, and Sedonna — as well as our Village Volunteers. We thank all our relations and ancestors, past, present, and future. We also thank our more-than-human relatives for allowing us to be guests in their home: coyote, three hawks, rabbit, arroyo chub, white sage, tule, and, of course, the spirit of the spring water—may it flow eternally.
We are grateful to all our supporters and deeply appreciate the care each of you brings to this place.
With gratitude and respect,
Dr. Lili Flores Aguilar
Deputy Director
Gabrielino Tongva Springs Foundation