Federally Recognized Since 1916

California ValleyMiwok Tribe

A sovereign nation rooted in the ancestral lands of the Sierra Nevada foothills, preserving our heritage and building our future.

Federally Recognized Sovereign Nation Since 1916

Our Mission

We are the Me-Wuk people — guardians of our ancestral lands in California's Sierra Nevada foothills, committed to sovereignty, cultural preservation, and the wellbeing of our citizens.

The California Valley Miwok Tribe, formerly known as the Sheep Ranch Rancheria of Me-Wuk Indians of California, is a federally recognized sovereign nation with roots tracing back thousands of years to the valleys and foothills of central California.

Our tribal government operates from our lands in the San Joaquin Valley region, where we continue to serve our citizens through cultural preservation programs, food sovereignty initiatives, educational opportunities, and community development.

Tribal Member Services

Standing Committees

Cultural Resources

Safeguarding cultural heritage, sacred sites, and traditional practices for future generations of Me-Wuk people.

Education

Supporting educational advancement through scholarships, tutoring, and academic resources for tribal citizens.

Enrollment

Managing tribal enrollment and maintaining accurate documentation of tribal citizenship.

Financial

Overseeing financial health and transparency of tribal operations, budgets, and resource allocation.

ICWA

Protecting children and families under the Indian Child Welfare Act, preserving family connections to community.

Community Outreach

Providing essential resources including the Food For Tribal Families Distribution program since 2009.

Tribal Government

CVMT Tribal Council

Elected under the tribe's constitution, adopted October 2024

Chairwoman

Antoinette Del Rio

Vice Chairwoman

Briana Sanchez

Secretary

Tami Mora

Treasurer

Lisa Lopez

At-Large

Antonia Lopez

At-Large

Pete Ramirez

At-Large

Anthony Wilson

At-Large

Angel Burley

At-Large

Mike Mendibles

Our Heritage

Rooted in the Land for Millennia

The Miwok people have inhabited the valleys, foothills, and mountains of central California for thousands of years. Our ancestors harvested acorns from the California Black Oak, fished the rivers, and hunted deer across the Sierra Nevada.

The word Miwok means "people" in our language. Our cultural traditions — including basket weaving, the grinding of acorns in chaw'se (mortar cups), and our creation stories — remain vital parts of our identity.

Programs & Initiatives

Serving Our Community

Food For Tribal Families

Monthly food distribution providing nutritious food to tribal citizens since 2009.

USDA Food Distribution

Monthly USDA distributions providing essential groceries and supplies to tribal families.

Cultural Preservation

Documenting, teaching, and revitalizing Miwok cultural practices and traditional ecological knowledge.

Tribal Constitution

Adopted October 2024, establishing the formal governance framework for self-determination.

Get In Touch

Contact the Tribe

We welcome communication from tribal citizens, government agencies, and community partners.

Mailing Address

P.O. Box 695
San Andreas, CA 95249

Phone

(209) 660-7122

Office@cvmt-nsn.gov