Ciara Morning Star Belardes

Ciara Morning Star Belardes, a proud member of the Juaneño Band of Mission Indians, Acjachemen Nation, is a dedicated guardian of her ancestral heritage. Ingrained with the knowledge passed down by her late grandfather, Chief David Belardes, and her father, Spiritual Leader Domingo Belardes, she stands as a beacon of cultural preservation.

Ciara volunteers with the Blas Aguilar Adobe Foundation, focusing on educating the community about the Juaneño/Acjachemen people’s history and culture. As the Director of Education and Community Outreach for Sacred Places Institute, she continues her efforts to promote awareness. Her work reflects a strong connection to her roots and a commitment to sharing the Juaneño/Acjachemen legacy.