Discover which states have officially replaced Columbus Day with Indigenous Peoples Day to honor the history and culture of Native American communities.
As more and more people across the United States recognize the importance of celebrating Indigenous Peoples Day, many states have begun to make the switch from Columbus Day. While some states have been slower to adopt this change, several have already taken steps to honor and uplift the voices of Indigenous peoples. From coast to coast, the movement to recognize the centuries of oppression and genocide wrought upon Native communities is gaining momentum.
Firstly, in 2019, Maine became the latest state to officially swap out Columbus Day for Indigenous Peoples Day, joining a growing list of states that have made the switch. This decision was a long time coming for the state, which is home to four federally recognized tribes. Similarly, Vermont and New Mexico have also made the change in recent years, recognizing the importance of celebrating the rich cultural heritage of Indigenous communities.
However, not all states have been quick to embrace Indigenous Peoples Day. In fact, several states have pushed back against the idea, including South Dakota and Oklahoma. Despite this resistance, the movement to reclaim this holiday as a day to honor those who were here long before Christopher Columbus arrived is continuing to grow. With each passing year, more and more people are recognizing the importance of centering Indigenous voices and experiences in our national narrative.
Celebrating Indigenous Peoples Day
Columbus Day has been a federal holiday in the United States since 1937, commemorating the arrival of Christopher Columbus in the Americas. However, this celebration has been met with controversy and criticism from Indigenous communities and advocates who argue that the holiday glorifies the colonialism and genocide of Native peoples. In response, many states and municipalities have adopted Indigenous Peoples Day as an alternative holiday to honor and recognize the history and culture of Indigenous peoples.
The Movement for Indigenous Peoples Day
In 1977, a delegation of Native leaders from across North America gathered in Geneva to present their case for Indigenous rights to the United Nations. As part of their advocacy, they proposed replacing Columbus Day with a day to celebrate Indigenous peoples and their contributions to society. This idea gained traction in the following decades, with the first official Indigenous Peoples Day declared in Berkeley, California in 1992. Since then, more than 130 cities and 15 states have recognized or adopted Indigenous Peoples Day.
States that Celebrate Indigenous Peoples Day
As of 2021, the following states have officially recognized Indigenous Peoples Day:
Alaska
Alaska was the second state to adopt Indigenous Peoples Day, following South Dakota in 1990. The holiday is celebrated on the same day as Columbus Day, the second Monday in October.
Hawaii
Hawaii officially replaced Columbus Day with Indigenous Peoples Day in 2017, becoming the first state to do so through legislative action. The holiday is celebrated on the same day as Discoverers’ Day, the second Monday in October.
Maine
Maine adopted Indigenous Peoples Day in 2019, replacing Columbus Day. The holiday is celebrated on the same day as Columbus Day, the second Monday in October.
Michigan
Michigan officially recognized Indigenous Peoples Day in 2019, joining the list of states that have replaced Columbus Day. The holiday is celebrated on the same day as Columbus Day, the second Monday in October.
Minnesota
Minnesota was the first state to recognize Indigenous Peoples Day in 2016, replacing Columbus Day. The holiday is celebrated on the same day as Columbus Day, the second Monday in October.
New Mexico
New Mexico officially replaced Columbus Day with Indigenous Peoples Day in 2019, joining other states in recognizing the contributions and history of Indigenous peoples. The holiday is celebrated on the same day as Columbus Day, the second Monday in October.
Oregon
Oregon adopted Indigenous Peoples Day in 2017, replacing Columbus Day. The holiday is celebrated on the same day as Columbus Day, the second Monday in October.
South Dakota
South Dakota was the first state to declare Native American Day in 1989, which coincides with Columbus Day. The state officially changed the name to Indigenous Peoples Day in 1990, becoming one of the first to adopt the holiday.
Vermont
Vermont recognized Indigenous Peoples Day in 2019, replacing Columbus Day. The holiday is celebrated on the same day as Columbus Day, the second Monday in October.
Wisconsin
Wisconsin officially adopted Indigenous Peoples Day in 2019, replacing Columbus Day. The holiday is celebrated on the same day as Columbus Day, the second Monday in October.
Conclusion
Indigenous Peoples Day is a growing movement across the United States, recognizing the contributions and history of Indigenous peoples who have long been marginalized and oppressed. While not all states have officially recognized the holiday, the momentum towards honoring Native communities and cultures continues to grow. By celebrating Indigenous Peoples Day, we can work towards a more inclusive and equitable society that values and respects the diversity of all peoples.
Which States Celebrate Indigenous Peoples Day?
Indigenous Peoples Day is a holiday that recognizes and celebrates the contributions, culture, and heritage of Native American communities across the country. Over the years, more and more states have chosen to replace Columbus Day with Indigenous Peoples Day as a way to honor the diverse history and traditions of Native American peoples. Here are ten states that celebrate Indigenous Peoples Day:
1. California – Leading the Way for Indigenous Peoples Day
California was the first state to replace Columbus Day with Indigenous Peoples Day in 2019, marking a momentous step towards acknowledging and celebrating the culture and contributions of Native American communities. The move was a long overdue recognition of the important role that Native Americans have played in shaping the state’s history and culture, and was a powerful affirmation of their continued presence and influence today.
2. Wisconsin – Reclaiming Native Heritage and Identity
In 2019, Wisconsin joined the movement towards Indigenous Peoples Day, recognizing the importance of honoring the history, achievements, and traditions of Native American peoples in the state. The decision was part of a larger effort to reclaim Native heritage and identity, and to raise awareness of the many ways in which Native Americans have shaped the state’s culture and identity over the centuries.
3. Maine – Embracing a New Era of Inclusivity
Also in 2019, Maine became the second state in New England to recognize Indigenous Peoples Day as a way to acknowledge and honor the state’s Indigenous Peoples and their significant contributions to Maine’s cultural heritage. The move was seen as a powerful step towards greater inclusivity and understanding, and a way to help ensure that Native American voices and perspectives are heard and respected in the state.
4. Minnesota – Celebrating the Rich and Diverse History of Native Americans
Minnesota’s Indigenous Peoples Day, which began in 2016, recognizes and celebrates the many tribes and cultures that inspire and enrich communities throughout the state. The holiday is a way to honor the rich and diverse history of Native Americans in Minnesota, and to promote greater understanding and appreciation of their many contributions to the state’s culture and identity.
5. Vermont – Empowering Indigenous Peoples Through Recognition and Respect
In recognition of the powerful contributions of Vermont’s Indigenous Peoples, the state officially established Indigenous Peoples Day in 2019, highlighting the need to honor and respect their unique culture and heritage. The move was seen as a way to empower Native American communities, and to create greater opportunities for them to share their stories, traditions, and perspectives with the wider world.
6. Alaska – Honoring the Native Heritage of the Last Frontier
Alaska’s Indigenous Peoples Day honors the legacy of the state’s Indigenous Peoples and their profound impact on the history and culture of the region. The holiday is an important way to recognize the many ways in which Native American communities have shaped and influenced life in Alaska, and to celebrate their continued resilience, strength, and vitality today.
7. Oregon – Acknowledging a Rich Tapestry of Native American History
Oregon’s Indigenous Peoples Day recognizes the historic and cultural significance of Oregon’s many tribal nations, and promotes greater understanding and appreciation of their diversity and traditions. The holiday is a way to honor the many contributions that Native Americans have made to the state’s culture, history, and identity, and to strengthen the bonds of understanding and respect between different communities in Oregon.
8. Hawaii – Celebrating a Culture and Heritage of Island Communities
Hawaii’s Indigenous Peoples Day celebrates the many indigenous communities that have called the islands home for centuries, and helps to raise awareness of their unique contributions to Hawaiian culture and society. The holiday is a way to recognize the rich and diverse history of Native Hawaiians, and to celebrate their continued resilience, strength, and vitality today.
9. New Mexico – Pioneering a Path Towards Greater Inclusivity
New Mexico was one of the first states to establish Indigenous Peoples Day, recognizing the critical need to acknowledge and celebrate the state’s diverse Native American heritage and traditions. The holiday is a way to empower Native American communities, and to promote greater understanding and respect between different cultures in the state.
10. South Dakota – Championing Native American Sovereignty and Self-Determination
South Dakota’s Indigenous Peoples Day recognizes the many powerful contributions of the state’s Native American communities throughout history, and demonstrates South Dakota’s commitment to honoring and preserving their heritage for future generations. The holiday is a way to celebrate the resilience and strength of Native American communities in South Dakota, and to promote greater understanding and respect between different cultures in the state.
In conclusion, Indigenous Peoples Day is an important holiday that recognizes and celebrates the culture, heritage, and contributions of Native American communities across the country. As more and more states choose to replace Columbus Day with Indigenous Peoples Day, we take a powerful step towards greater inclusivity and understanding, and a way to help ensure that Native American voices and perspectives are heard and respected in our communities and our country as a whole.
Indigenous Peoples Day is a holiday that honors the history and contributions of Native Americans. Many states across the United States have started to recognize this day as an official holiday. Here are some states that celebrate Indigenous Peoples Day and their unique perspectives:
- California – In 2019, California Governor Gavin Newsom signed a bill making Indigenous Peoples Day a state holiday. The bill recognizes the historical and ongoing contributions of Native American tribes in California.
- Minnesota – Minnesota was the first state to officially recognize Indigenous Peoples Day in 2016. This decision was made to acknowledge the devastation caused by Christopher Columbus and to honor the resilience of Native American communities.
- Oregon – Oregon officially recognized Indigenous Peoples Day in 2017. The state has a long history of Native American activism and advocacy, and this holiday is a way to acknowledge the ongoing struggles and resilience of these communities.
It’s important to recognize that not all states celebrate Indigenous Peoples Day. Some states still celebrate Columbus Day, which has been criticized for ignoring the violence and oppression that Columbus brought to indigenous communities. However, as more states begin to recognize Indigenous Peoples Day, it’s a sign of progress towards a more inclusive and equitable society.
Overall, celebrating Indigenous Peoples Day is an opportunity to honor the rich and diverse cultures of Native American communities and to learn from their experiences and wisdom.
Greetings, dear readers! As we come to the end of our journey together, exploring which states celebrate Indigenous Peoples Day, we hope that this article has been informative and thought-provoking for you. It is important to acknowledge the rich and diverse cultures of indigenous peoples in America, and to recognize the wrongs that were committed against them throughout history.
As we have seen, there are currently 15 states that officially observe Indigenous Peoples Day, replacing the traditional Columbus Day holiday. This movement began in 1992 in Berkeley, California, and has since spread across the country, with more and more states and cities joining in each year. It is a small but meaningful step towards honoring and respecting the indigenous peoples who have been here long before Columbus arrived.
It is important to note, however, that not all states have made the switch. Some still cling to the outdated and offensive Columbus Day holiday, despite the harm it causes to indigenous communities. We encourage everyone to learn more about the history of Columbus Day and the impact it has on indigenous peoples, and to advocate for change in their own communities.
In conclusion, we hope that this article has inspired you to take action and support the movement towards Indigenous Peoples Day. Let us work towards a future where all cultures are respected and celebrated equally. Thank you for joining us on this journey, and we wish you all the best on your own path of learning and growth.
When it comes to celebrating Indigenous Peoples Day, there are a few states in the United States that observe this holiday. Here are some common questions people have about which states celebrate Indigenous Peoples Day:
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Which states celebrate Indigenous Peoples Day?
Currently, 15 states and Washington D.C. recognize Indigenous Peoples Day as a state holiday. These states include:
- Alaska
- Hawaii
- Minnesota
- North Carolina
- Oregon
- South Dakota
- Vermont
- Wisconsin
- New Mexico
- Maine
- Massachusetts
- Michigan
- Virginia
- California
- Iowa
- Washington D.C.
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What is the significance of Indigenous Peoples Day?
Indigenous Peoples Day is a holiday that honors and celebrates the Native American peoples and their histories, cultures, and contributions to society. It is often seen as an alternative to Columbus Day, which has been criticized for its celebration of colonialism, genocide, and mistreatment of indigenous peoples.
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Why do some states not celebrate Indigenous Peoples Day?
Not all states have adopted Indigenous Peoples Day as a state holiday, and the reasons vary. Some states may still celebrate Columbus Day instead, while others may not have a large Native American population or cultural presence. There may also be political or cultural factors that play a role in the decision not to recognize Indigenous Peoples Day.
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How can I celebrate Indigenous Peoples Day?
There are many ways to celebrate Indigenous Peoples Day, even if it is not recognized as a state holiday where you live. You can educate yourself on Native American history and culture, support Native American-owned businesses and organizations, attend local events or powwows, and show solidarity with Native American communities. You can also advocate for your state or city to adopt Indigenous Peoples Day as a holiday.