Before the arrival of European settlers, the Tribe was known as the Yuhaaviatam Clan of the Maara’yam. Yuhaaviatam means "People of the Pines," reflecting the deep connection to the land, the natural world, and the enduring spirit of their ancestors. San Manuel Band of Mission Indians was a name given to the Tribe by the U.S. government in 1891 and reflects the Spanish Mission and U.S. colonization periods that yielded a long history of dispossession, trauma, and genocide as well as confinement to restricted, isolated, and unproductive lands.
“A name is more than just a title or label—it is a proud connection to our identity, our history and our traditions,” said Lynn Valbuena, Chairwoman of the Yuhaaviatam of San Manuel Nation Tribal Council. “The name Yuhaaviatam of San Manuel Nation is not only how our nation will be known, but a symbol of the enduring legacy passed down through generations. This name is rooted in our spoken language, deeply embedded in our heritage, and carries the wisdom and resilience of our ancestors.”
As the Tribe reclaims its Creator-bestowed name—a name they have known since their creation —they honor their history and pay tribute to those who came before, whose strength and sacrifices have allowed them to continue their existence and growth.
Yuhaaviatam of San Manuel Nation began more broadly sharing the Maara’yam language with the world when they re-introduced their flagship property, Yaamava’ Resort & Casino at San Manuel in 2021. Yaamava’ is the Serrano word for the spring season. This decision marked a significant step in promoting awareness of the language, culture and heritage of their people.
As they move forward, the Tribe remains committed to honoring the legacy of their ancestors, embracing their traditions, andensuring the continuation of their culture and language for future generations. For more information about Yuhaaviatam of San Manuel Nation, visit sanmanuel-nsn.gov or ANameHasPower.com.
About Yuhaaviatam of San Manuel Nation
Yuhaaviatam of San Manuel Nation is a federally recognized Indian tribe located on the San Manuel Indian Reservation near Highland, California. The Tribe, formerly known as the San Manuel Band of Mission Indians, proudly reclaims their ancestral name —Yuhaaviatam (pronounced “yu-HAH-vee-ah-tahm”) — honoring the deep-rooted heritage and enduring legacy of their people. Exercising their inherent sovereign right to self-governance, Yuhaaviatam of San Manuel Nation is committed to providing essential services to their citizens by building infrastructure, maintaining civil services, and promoting social, economic, and cultural development.
As the Indigenous people of the San Bernardino highlands, passes, valleys, mountains, and high deserts, the Yuhaaviatam have called this region home since time immemorial and are committed to remaining a productive partner in the San Bernardino region. For more information, visit http://www.sanmanuel-nsn.gov.
