Photo ⓒ Amanda J. Mason / Greenpeace
Today, October 10th, we celebrate Indigenous Peoples’ Day, which honors the cultures, histories, and contributions of Native Americans, past and present. This day also works to correct the harmful narrative of Columbus' “discovery” of the Americas.
The idea was first proposed by Indigenous peoples at a United Nations conference in 1977 held to address discrimination against Natives, but South Dakota became the first state to replace Columbus Day with Indigenous Peoples day in 1989. Berkeley, CA was the first city to adopt the holiday in 1992. Last year, 2021, was the first year a U.S. president officially recognized Indigenous Peoples' Day.
We invite you to commemorate Indigenous Peoples’ Day with us by learning more about the holiday as well as making a commitment to support organizations that seek to advance Indigenous sovereignty. You can find a list of resources below:
A Proclamation on Indigenous Peoples’ Day | White House
Indigenous Peoples' Day, as Explained by Native Americans | NPR
Rethinking How We Celebrate American History—Indigenous Peoples’ Day | Smithsonian Magazine
Shuumi Land Tax | The Sogorea Te Land Trust
30th Anniversary of Indigenous Peoples’ Day in Berkeley | Berkeleyside
UC Berkeley Native American Student Development | UC Berkeley Centers for Educational Justice & Community Engagement