Indigenous People’s Day was declared a national holiday on October 11, 2021, and is celebrated on October 14th. However, it was known as Christopher Columbus Day before it became Indigenous People’s Day. They are two different holidays celebrated on the same day. The holiday was given its name to acknowledge Native people worldwide. According to whitehouse.gov, “Today, we recognize Indigenous peoples’ resilience and strength as well as the immeasurable positive impact that they have made on every aspect of American society. We also recommit to supporting a new, brighter future of promise and equity for Tribal Nations — a future grounded in Tribal sovereignty and respect for the human rights of Indigenous people in the Americas and around the world.” It is important to appreciate the Native peoples’ who were here before Columbus.
Everyone can embrace Indigenous Peoples’ Day with a few steps. For starters, appreciate and be aware of the holiday and Native land you live on. In addition, attend a celebration by Indigenous Peoples to honor the holiday. Last, take time to learn about Indigenous people and their history. Also, informing others about the holiday can spread inclusivity (McGee). All in all, these are a few actions that can be taken to celebrate the national holiday.
Indigenous People’s Day has a vibrant history, which includes many interesting facts regarding the holiday. The New York Times article, “Indigenous Peoples’ Day, Explained” states, “South Dakota is believed to have been the first state to have officially recognized the day in 1990.” This is most likely because of the large Native American presence in the Midwest. Additionally, Indigenous People’s Day is seen as a replacement for Columbus Day in numerous cities around the United States. Pew Research Center reports, “Only 16 states still observe the second Monday in October as an official public holiday exclusively called Columbus Day.” The number of states that celebrate Columbus Day is lessening due to the push from the public.
Indigenous People’s Day sheds light on Indigenous Peoples’ issues and educates the public about their heritage. Making Indigenous People’s Day a holiday allows the media to cover the discrimination that Indigenous people face in America, which will hopefully decrease the violence against them.
https://www.nytimes.com/article/indigenous-peoples-day.html
Image Source: https://www.pbs.org/newshour/nation/why-more-people-are-celebrating-indigenous-peoples-day