Mt. Rubidoux Peak – Opportunity for a Broader Conversation

August 10, 2020

As the current stewards of the peak of Mt. Rubidoux, Rivers & Lands Conservancy acknowledges the larger cultural heritage issues raised by the recent damage to the cross on June 26, 2020. The incident included structural damage to the cross, as well as spray-painted messaging critical of Father Junipero Serra, the namesake of the cross.

We have had the cross inspected by a structural engineer, the spray paint has been removed, and we will be repairing the damages once we have the appropriate permitting for the work. We greatly appreciate the donation of time and funds we have received from the community and your continued support. As we move forward, we recognize the need for both cultural repairs as well as structural repairs at the peak. We believe this incident brings to light the need for a more complete history of the peak including perspectives of local Indigenous communities and other pertinent viewpoints. As such, we pledge to engage stakeholders and community members in a broader and inclusive conversation on how to best move forward acknowledging our shared history of the area.

RLC’s Board of Directors has formed a committee that has been working diligently on how to best address this opportunity. The committee is currently reaching out to community leaders, including those who represent these missing voices. Together, we plan on holding a community forum in the early fall. Please stay tuned for updates on forum details.

Comments can be sent to info@riversandlands.org.

The Stairs After Restoration