The Tongva People and Billie Eilish’s Mansion

The Tongva tribe asserts that Billie Eilish’s $3 million mansion is situated on their ancestral land.

While accepting a Grammy, Eilish expressed her gratitude, stating, “I don’t have to be honest, other than to say that I’m grateful and that no one is living illegally on stolen land.” She added a rather colorful comment about ICE before confidently discussing her home.

Interestingly, it appears that her mansion is surrounded by high walls, presumably for privacy.

The Tongva people have not heard from Eilish regarding the “stolen land” issue, and they are looking to discuss it with her.

A spokesperson for the tribe clarified Eilish’s comments, stating, “As Indigenous peoples of the Los Angeles Basin, we understand that her home is on our ancestral lands. Public figures have an important role in acknowledging the history of this country.”

The spokesperson also indicated a desire for her to include direct references to their tribe in future statements, emphasizing that the Los Angeles Basin is still recognized as Gabrieleno Tongva territory.

Nevertheless, some individuals argue that the phrase “stolen land has no borders” is misleading and aimed at reducing America’s borders, while noting that those criticizing Western civilization often benefit from its structures.

It’s noteworthy that many lands have histories of conquest, and perhaps much of this debate touches on complex issues of history and morality. The Tongva people, historically, may not be morally distinct from European settlers; both groups, after all, have engaged in conflict over land.

Western civilization, for better or worse, has brought changes that stopped constant tribal warfare and significantly raised living standards. Yes, many injustices have occurred, particularly at the hands of the federal government. Yet, it’s also essential to recognize the struggles among various tribes throughout history.

The past was different—much more brutal, in many ways. One can only wonder whether one would prefer to live as a woman in a pre-colonial society or in one that has gone through significant changes, for better or worse.

People lamenting about stolen land often do so while relying heavily on modern conveniences, and it might be worth considering what life was like before the arrival of Europeans in America.