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Writer's pictureElianne Van Slyke

Indigenous People’s Day: Celebrating History, Heritage, and Healing

Indigenous People’s Day, celebrated on the second Monday in October, offers an opportunity to honor the history, culture, and contributions of Indigenous communities. In recent years, more cities and states across the U.S. have replaced Columbus Day with Indigenous People’s Day to shift the narrative from the glorification of colonization to one of recognition and respect for the resilience of Native peoples. Below, we explore the origins of this day, its significance, and ways you can contribute to raising awareness and supporting Indigenous communities.


Celebrating Indigenous Peoples' Day | City of Colorado Springs

At least 48 federally recognized tribes have deep connections here and continue to foster their relationships with this land. These tribes include, but are not limited to, the Ute, Kiowa, Jicarilla Apache, Comanche, Cheyenne, and Arapaho.


The History and Importance of Indigenous People’s Day


Indigenous People’s Day began as a movement to acknowledge the devastating impacts of colonization and to provide a platform for Indigenous voices and stories that have long been marginalized. The holiday gained momentum during the civil rights movements of the 1970s, led by Native activists who sought recognition for their peoples’ suffering, resilience, and cultural contributions. In 1977, Indigenous leaders at a United Nations-sponsored conference proposed the idea of replacing Columbus Day with a day honoring Native peoples.


In 1992, the City Council of Berkeley, California, declared October 12 a “Day of Solidarity with Indigenous People” and designated 1992 as the “Year of Indigenous People."


Today, at least 20 states and hundreds of localities officially observe Indigenous People’s Day instead of, or in addition to, Columbus Day. As noted by the National Museum of the American Indian, this shift helps dispel myths about Columbus’ “discovery” of America and promotes a more accurate understanding of Indigenous history. Celebrating this day is a powerful statement that Indigenous history and culture are fundamental to the nation’s identity .


Indigenous Contributions to Modern Society

While often overlooked, Indigenous peoples have significantly influenced many aspects of modern life, including agriculture, environmental conservation, medicine, and governance. For example, the United States government’s founding principles of democracy were inspired in part by the Iroquois Confederacy’s sophisticated system of government. Additionally, Indigenous farming techniques, such as companion planting, are still used today for sustainable agriculture .


How You Can Support Indigenous Communities





President Joe Biden, in his Plan for Tribal Nations, promised to “provide tribes with a greater role in the care and management of public lands that are of cultural significance to Tribal Nations.”





To honor Indigenous People’s Day, here are ways to contribute to the awareness and support of Indigenous communities:


Support Indigenous-led Organizations

Contributing to Indigenous-led organizations is one of the most effective ways to support these communities. Some notable groups include:


  • First Nations Development Institute: This organization strengthens Indigenous economies by providing grants and technical assistance to Native communities.

  • Native American Rights Fund (NARF): NARF provides legal assistance to Native American tribes, organizations, and individuals to protect their rights.

  • Honor the Earth: Co-founded by environmental activist Winona LaDuke, this organization fights for environmental justice and Indigenous sovereignty through advocacy and education.


Learn from Indigenous Media and Educational Resources

  • Native Knowledge 360° (NK360°): Created by the National Museum of the American Indian, this resource dispels myths and teaches accurate history about Indigenous peoples. It’s a great starting point for understanding the true impacts of colonization and the contributions of Native communities .

  • Indian Country Today: A national news source covering Indigenous affairs and highlighting stories that often go unreported in mainstream media.


Advocate for Indigenous Rights

Support policies and movements that advocate for Indigenous sovereignty and environmental protection. Many Indigenous communities continue to fight for access to clean water, land rights, and the protection of sacred sites. Amplifying their calls for justice by participating in or supporting movements like #LandBack and the Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls (MMIWG) campaigns can make a real difference .


Engage Locally

Attend local events or virtual panels that celebrate Indigenous culture and history. Many cities and organizations host Indigenous People’s Day activities such as educational forums, art exhibits, and storytelling events. Engaging in these events can be a meaningful way to show solidarity with Native peoples while learning from their rich cultural heritage.


Educate Yourself and Others

Dispel myths about Indigenous history by educating yourself and sharing that knowledge with others. For example, many schools still teach that Christopher Columbus "discovered" America, when in fact, thriving Indigenous civilizations had existed for thousands of years. By confronting these myths head-on and pushing for curriculum changes, we help ensure future generations receive a more truthful education.


Why Indigenous People’s Day Matters

The move to replace Columbus Day with Indigenous People’s Day is not just symbolic; it’s a step towards healing and reconciliation. For centuries, Indigenous peoples have fought to maintain their cultural heritage despite the systemic erasure and violence they’ve faced. Indigenous People’s Day gives space to acknowledge that painful history while also celebrating the strength and beauty of Native cultures.


Fort Lewis College honored its Indigenous students, staff, and faculty on Indigenous Peoples' Day on October 10, 2022


By participating in this day, we join a movement of recognition and respect for Indigenous sovereignty, resilience, and contributions to the world. This day reminds us to continue advocating for Indigenous communities—not just one day a year but through sustained commitment to justice and equity.


Additional Resources to Explore and Support


By supporting these organizations and educating ourselves, we can contribute to the ongoing fight for justice, respect, and equality for Indigenous peoples.

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