Indigenous Peoples Day: Celebrating Culture and Resilience

by Patrick Wilson

Indigenous Peoples Day is an official holiday in the city of Boston, Massachusetts, celebrated on the second Monday in October, the same day as Columbus Day in the United States. In 2021, Acting Mayor Kim Janey signed an executive order establishing Indigenous Peoples Day in Boston, stating that the holiday is “a time to reflect on the rich history and culture of Indigenous peoples, and to celebrate their resilience and contributions to our city.”

The city of Boston is located on the traditional territory of the Massachusett Tribe at Ponkapoag, one of several Indigenous tribes who have lived in the Boston area for thousands of years. Indigenous Peoples Day is an important opportunity to learn about and celebrate the history and culture of Indigenous peoples, reflect on the ongoing challenges they face, and work towards a more just and equitable future for all.

The United American Indians of New England (UAINE) is a non-profit organization that advocates for the rights and interests of Indigenous peoples in New England. Founded in 1972 by a group of Indigenous activists concerned about the loss of Indigenous land, culture, and language, UAINE’s mission is to “promote the well-being of Indigenous peoples in New England by advocating for their rights and interests, preserving their culture and language, and providing them with essential services.”

UAINE’s work focuses on a variety of areas, including advocacy, education, and services. UAINE advocates for Indigenous rights and interests at the state, local, and federal levels, ensuring that Indigenous voices are heard in decision-making processes that affect their lives. UAINE also provides educational programs and resources to help Indigenous peoples learn about their culture and history, and to educate the public about Indigenous peoples and issues. Additionally, UAINE provides a variety of essential services to Indigenous peoples in New England, including housing assistance, job training, and cultural support.

Indigenous Peoples Day March

On Saturday, October 7, 2023, UAINE will host an Indigenous Peoples Day March in Boston, Massachusetts. The march is a celebration of Indigenous culture and resilience, and a protest against the ongoing injustices that Indigenous peoples face. The march will begin at noon at Park Street Station and will proceed down Tremont Street to the Boston Common, where there will be a rally with speakers and performances. The march is open to everyone, and all are welcome to participate.

UAINE encourages people to wear traditional clothing, bring signs and banners, and share their stories. The march is an important opportunity to show solidarity with Indigenous peoples and to demand justice for their communities. It is also a time to learn about and celebrate Indigenous culture.

Why is Indigenous Peoples Day important?

Indigenous Peoples Day is a day to celebrate the contributions of Indigenous peoples to our society and to raise awareness of the challenges that they continue to face. Indigenous peoples have been here for thousands of years, and they have a rich culture and history. However, they have also been subjected to genocide, colonialism, and other forms of oppression.

Indigenous Peoples Day is an opportunity to learn about the history of Indigenous peoples and to reflect on the ongoing injustices that they face. It is also a day to celebrate Indigenous culture and resilience.

What can you do to support Indigenous peoples?

There are many ways to support Indigenous peoples, including:

  • Attending Indigenous-led events and festivals
  • Visiting museums and cultural centers that celebrate Indigenous art and culture
  • Learning about the history and culture of Indigenous peoples
  • Donating to or volunteering for Indigenous organizations
  • Supporting Indigenous-owned businesses

How to get involved in the Indigenous Peoples Day March

To get involved in the Indigenous Peoples Day March, you can:

  • Visit the UAINE website
  • Share information about the march on social media
  • Invite your friends and family to participate
  • Make a donation to UAINE to support their work

Indigenous Peoples Day is an important opportunity to learn about and celebrate the history and culture of Indigenous peoples, reflect on the ongoing challenges they face, and work towards a more just and equitable future for all. By supporting Indigenous peoples and their organizations, we can help to ensure that their voices are heard and that their rights are respected.

* This piece was created with the help of ai.