Boozhoo John, Monday is Indigenous Peoples’ Day, a day that celebrates the accomplishments, diversity, and traditions of Indigenous people across the country. It is also a day to acknowledge the discrimination against Native people and our country’s history of forced assimilation and colonialism.
In the past, we have hosted an array of events to celebrate this day (which you can see on our Facebook page here). We’ve talked about food sovereignty, the origins of frybread, and the deep roots of democracy in Native communities.
But this year, we’re taking the day off.
Our team is taking Monday for some much needed rest before we go out knocking on doors leading up to the election. Make sure to follow our Facebook page to stay up to date on events we’re hosting and voting information you need.
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About Indigenous Peoples’ Day
In case you didn’t know, last year Pres. Biden made a proclamation officially acknowledging Indigenous Peoples’ Day as a federal holiday – a first for a U.S. president. This was a meaningful moment, having the U.S. government recognize the many ways Indigenous people have given back to this country. As the White House said, “we recognize Indigenous peoples’ resilience and strength as well as the immeasurable positive impact that they have made on every aspect of American society.”
The idea for Indigenous Peoples’ Day was first suggested all the way back in 1977 at a United Nations conference. It has taken years of hard work by Native people to make this federal acknowledgement a reality.
So, on Monday our team will be celebrating the tireless work of our ancestors to get us to where we are today. Then we’ll get back to work to get out the Native vote on November 8. Miigwech (thank you) for your continued support that makes our work possible – and happy Indigenous Peoples’ Day. |