National Indigenous Peoples’ Day (California)

National Indigenous Peoples’ Day (California)

National Indigenous Peoples’ Day in California is a day dedicated to honoring and celebrating the rich history, resilience, and contributions of Indigenous peoples. It replaces Columbus Day in many communities as a way to recognize the injustices faced by Native peoples and celebrate their cultural heritage.

Quick Facts

When is it? The second Monday of October.
Tagged as: A celebration of Indigenous history, culture, and contributions.
What’s the hashtag? #IndigenousPeoplesDay
When was it founded? 1992 in Berkeley, California.
Who founded it? Berkeley City Council and Native advocacy groups.

History

The idea for Indigenous Peoples’ Day emerged during the 1977 UN conference on Indigenous rights. In 1992, Berkeley became the first city to officially replace Columbus Day with Indigenous Peoples’ Day, marking the 500th anniversary of Columbus’s arrival in the Americas. This was done to highlight the devastating impact of colonization on Native peoples and celebrate their enduring cultures. Since then, other cities across California and the U.S. have adopted this holiday.

Timeline

1977: UN conference discusses replacing Columbus Day with Indigenous Peoples’ Day.
1992: Berkeley officially declares Indigenous Peoples’ Day on October 12.
1993: Berkeley holds its first annual powwow and festival for Indigenous Peoples’ Day.
2020: More cities across California adopt the holiday officially.

Upcoming Dates

Year	Month and Date	Day
2025	October 13	Monday
2026	October 12	Monday
2027	October 11	Monday
2028	October 9	Monday
2029	October 8	Monday
2030	October 14	Monday

Observed

Indigenous Peoples’ Day is observed through educational programs, cultural events, powwows, and ceremonies that honor Native traditions and histories. Communities often use this day to reflect on historical injustices while celebrating resilience.

Fun Facts About

Berkeley’s first celebration included an opera titled Get Lost (Again) Columbus.
California has one of the largest populations of Native peoples in the U.S.
The holiday often coincides with efforts to restore Native land rights and cultural practices.

Quiz

What year did Berkeley first celebrate Indigenous Peoples’ Day?
- Answer: 1992
What does this day replace in many communities?
- Answer: Columbus Day
Which city was the first to adopt this holiday?
- Answer: Berkeley, California

FAQs

Q: Why was Columbus Day replaced with Indigenous Peoples’ Day?
A: To acknowledge the harm caused by colonization and celebrate Indigenous cultures instead of glorifying European conquest.

Q: Is Indigenous Peoples’ Day a federal holiday?
A: No, but it is recognized by several states and cities across the U.S., including many in California.

Q: How can I participate in celebrations?
A: Attend local events such as powwows, festivals, or educational workshops, and support Native-led initiatives.

Importance

National Indigenous Peoples’ Day is significant because it shifts focus from colonial narratives to honoring Native resilience, culture, and contributions. It fosters understanding, respect, and reconciliation between communities.