Indigenous Peoples’ Day is recognized on the second Monday of October in many communities across the United States to honor Indigenous peoples, including Native American communities. It recognizes their histories, cultures, traditions, and contributions while acknowledging the hardships they have endured, including colonization, the loss of their lands and discrimination. The day encourages people to learn about Indigenous histories, respect their traditions and recognize their lasting impact on the past, present and future. Many communities observe Indigenous Peoples’ Day instead of Columbus Day to honor Indigenous peoples, recognize their experiences and celebrate their heritage.
Recognizing Indigenous peoples means more than honoring their history and culture; it also means respecting their rights. In 2007, the United Nations adopted the Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples, opens a new window, an international document that affirms Indigenous peoples’ rights to preserve their cultures, languages, traditions and ancestral lands. This declaration reinforces the importance of recognizing Indigenous peoples not only for their contributions to society but also for their right to self-determination, equality and dignity.
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