Indigenous Peoples' Day - American

Hello, I am Indigenous Peoples' Day. My purpose is to honor the very first people who lived in the lands we now call the Americas. These groups have been here for thousands of years and include Native Americans, Alaska Natives, and Native Hawaiians. Each of these communities has its own unique and rich culture, with special traditions, languages, and stories that have been passed down through many generations. I am a day to recognize and celebrate their long and important histories.

People in the United States observe me on the second Monday of October. You might know that this is the same date as another American holiday called Columbus Day. Many cities, states, and communities have decided to observe me on this day instead. They do this to shine a light on the Indigenous communities that have lived in the Americas for a very long time, long before other explorers arrived. It is a way of honoring their history as the first people of the land.

My story as a holiday began as an idea. The suggestion for a day like me was first brought up at an important international meeting called a United Nations conference in 1977. It took some time for this idea to grow. My first official statewide celebration happened in South Dakota in the year 1989. Since that time, more and more places have chosen to recognize me. Now, many cities, states, and schools all across the country set aside this day to honor Indigenous peoples.

My main purpose is to be a day of happy celebration, focused on the vibrant cultures and deep histories of Indigenous peoples. It is a time for everyone to learn about their many important contributions, both in the past and in the world today. I also exist to recognize the resilience of these communities. Resilience is a powerful word that means showing great strength and continuing on, even when facing very difficult challenges. Honoring this strength is a key part of what my day is all about.

Today, people mark my day in many wonderful ways that show respect and appreciation. Some communities hold gatherings called powwows, which are filled with traditional dancing, drumming, and beautiful music. In other places, people take time to learn about the history of the local tribes who have always lived in their area. Schools and families might read books written by Indigenous authors or support Native artists by enjoying their work. It is a day for celebration, for remembering history, and for learning something new.