El Dorado County (Jan 24, 2025) – In El Dorado County, approximately 75.5% of the population identifies as non-Hispanic White, while about 2% identifies as Native American.
Despite the county’s rich indigenous history, members of the Shingle Springs Band of Miwok Indians report experiencing persistent discrimination.
Kim Stoll, Communications Director for the Shingle Springs Band of Miwok Indians, highlighted the community’s concerns: “There’s hate. It’s very conservative here,” she stated. Stoll recounted an instance where the tribe considered creating vehicle tags for members, but many declined, fearing potential backlash. “It was interesting to see that, knowing how long they’ve been here on the reservation… yet how isolated they remain,” she added.
Regina Cuellar, Chairwoman of the Shingle Springs Band of Miwok Indians and a Commissioner for the California Commission on the State of Hate, has been an advocate for the indigenous community. Her lived experience as a multi-racial individual exposed her firsthand to the generational trauma, social inequity, and discrimination that exists in disadvantaged communities.
These experiences underscore the challenges faced by Native American communities in regions where they are a minority. The reluctance to display tribal affiliation publicly reflects deeper concerns about acceptance and safety within the broader community.
As El Dorado County continues to grow and diversify, addressing these issues becomes increasingly vital. Fostering understanding and inclusivity is essential to ensure that all residents feel safe and valued.
