When Billie Eilish declared “no one is illegal on stolen land” during her Grammy Awards appearance, the moment drew applause, headlines, and heated debate. Social media reacted instantly, with reactions ranging from support to criticism. Yet the statement reached the people whose history it referenced: the Tongva, Indigenous stewards of the Los Angeles Basin, whose ancestral lands now include the city where the Grammys took place.
The Tongva responded with measured clarity. They acknowledged Eilish’s effort to highlight Indigenous history but reminded the public that no direct relationship or consultation had taken place. They did not demand symbolic gestures or dramatic actions. Instead, they called for recognition rooted in understanding, relationships built on listening, and the inclusion of their name in public awareness alongside global figures. Their response emphasized that acknowledgment is only meaningful when it leads to deeper awareness and mutual respect.
While political figures and commentators debated the meaning and implications, the Tongva emphasized responsibility over spectacle. They encouraged collaboration, working with The Recording Academy on land acknowledgment efforts. Their message was simple but profound: justice is not achieved through viral statements alone but through sustained engagement and shared accountability. This moment illustrates a broader lesson about advocacy.
Visibility opens doors, but relationships keep them open. Words can raise awareness, but meaningful change requires consistent action and genuine involvement. The Tongva’s words—“Ekwa Shem — We are here”—serve as both a reminder and an invitation. Allyship is not proven in moments of spotlight but in the quiet commitment that follows. True progress is measured not by applause, but by enduring presence, thoughtful action, and sincerity.
