On Friday President Joe Biden became the first president in U.S. history to announce a proclamation honoring October 11 as Indigenous Peoples’ Day.
“Since time immemorial, American Indians, Alaska Natives, and Native Hawaiians have built vibrant and diverse cultures — safeguarding land, language, spirit, knowledge, and tradition across the generations,” it reads. “On Indigenous Peoples’ Day, our Nation celebrates the invaluable contributions and resilience of Indigenous peoples, recognizes their inherent sovereignty, and commits to honoring the Federal Government’s trust and treaty obligations to Tribal Nations.”
This announcement is momentous because it shifts the day’s focus away from explorer Christopher Columbus who is also celebrated on October 11, but whose arrival in America prompted death and destruction for millions of Indigenous peoples. The proclamation makes note of that as well.
“The Federal Government has a solemn obligation to lift up and invest in the future of Indigenous people and empower Tribal Nations to govern their own communities and make their own decisions,” the proclamation goes on. “We must never forget the centuries-long campaign of violence, displacement, assimilation, and terror wrought upon Native communities and Tribal Nations throughout our country. Today, we acknowledge the significant sacrifices made by Native peoples to this country — and recognize their many ongoing contributions to our Nation.”
Change Matrix recognizes both the struggle and contributions of Indigenous people throughout history and has compiled a list of five ways to celebrate October 11.
1. Attend a Virtual Event.
Educating oneself on the history of Indigenous peoples is vital to celebrating with purpose. Native American, First Nations and Indigenous Peoples (NAFNI) hosts various classes and webinars on everything from spirituality to policymaking.
2. Donate to Indigenous Groups and Causes
Financially supporting Indigenous groups can be an excellent way to further equity. Here are two charitable groups one might consider supporting American Indian College Fund, Native American Rights Fund, National Indian Child Welfare Association, and Project Venture.
3. Work to End Racist Mascots
For far too long, athletic institutions have been relying on antiquated and racist depictions of Indigenous peoples as mascots. The National Congress of American Indians has created a webinar and comprehensive list of resources to aid in the removal of these symbols.
4. Cook a Traditional Recipe
First Nations Development Institute has created a list of cookbooks and recipes that feature dozens of traditional and adapted recipes to bring “a bit of Native America to your table.”
5. Read Books by Indigenous Authors
When learning about other cultures, few methods surpass storytelling in its ability to foster relatability and understanding. Penguin Random House has a list of books by Indigenous authors from around the world.
Visit this link to find a national list of Native American organizations serving the community.
