Today we celebrate Indigenous Peoples Day – a time to honor and recognize the rich cultures, contributions, and histories of Indigenous communities across the United States. This day serves as a reminder of the ongoing impact of colonization and the resilience of Indigenous peoples. Indigenous Peoples Day is celebrated on the second Monday of October each year.
Historically, Indigenous communities have faced erasure and marginalization, often misrepresented through harmful stereotypes and caricatures. They continue to confront systemic violence and disenfranchisement. Acknowledging their struggles and achievements requires more than a designated day or a land acknowledgment. It is essential to elevate Indigenous voices, support their communities, and engage in practices that promote awareness of their joys and challenges. We must actively challenge injustices against Indigenous peoples.
About Indigenous Peoples’ Day
Despite the observance of Indigenous Peoples Day, many still refer to this day as "Columbus Day," celebrating Christopher Columbus and his so-called "discovery" of the New World. However, history reveals that Columbus was not the first to discover the Americas, and honoring "Columbus Day" overlooks the brutal treatment and genocide of Indigenous peoples. His voyages led to the near extinction of the Taino people and marked the beginning of widespread colonization in the Caribbean.
In 2021, President Biden issued the first presidential proclamation of Indigenous Peoples Day, which you can view [here]. South Dakota was the first state to celebrate "Native American Day" in 1990 as a counter to "Columbus Day." Berkeley, California, was the first city to recognize Indigenous Peoples’ Day in 1992, protesting the 500th anniversary of Columbus’ arrival.
Land acknowledgments are just the first step in recognizing Indigenous peoples and their histories. By acknowledging the land our university occupies, we pay tribute to those who originally cared for it, confront the injustices faced by displaced and marginalized Indigenous communities, and commit to addressing these issues. This acknowledgment merely serves as a foundation for centering and taking action to support Indigenous communities. We encourage everyone to honor the Indigenous peoples who came before us, those who are present today, and future generations, celebrating their rich legacies. We extend our heartfelt appreciation and love to all Indigenous faculty, staff, and students at UMBC.
Interested in literary works by Indigenous authors? Check out this book list.
Click here to read the 2024 Presidential Proclamation for Indigenous Peoples Day.
