American Indian Day in the United States

American Indian Day is a holiday that celebrates and honors the culture, traditions, and histories of Native American peoples. It is observed in various states across the United States, but not all states celebrate it on the same day or with the same name. Some refer to it as Native American Day or Indigenous Peoples' Day, often replacing Columbus Day.

History:

• Early Advocacy: The idea for an American Indian Day dates back to the early 20th century when Dr. Arthur C. Parker, a Seneca Indian, advocated for a day to honor the "First Americans."
• New York: The first state to observe such a day was New York in 1916.
• Continued Recognition: Over time, other states began to recognize the day as well.
• South Dakota & Berkeley: South Dakota renamed Columbus Day as Native American Day in 1990, and Berkeley, California, was one of the first cities to replace Columbus Day with Indigenous Peoples' Day in 1992.

Traditions:

Traditions and activities vary by region and community but can include:

• Cultural Festivals: Events showcasing Native American culture through music, dance, traditional crafts, and food.
• Educational Programs: Schools and educational institutions may hold special programs or curriculum units focused on Native history and contemporary issues.
• Community Gatherings: Powwows or social gatherings that bring people together to honor tribal traditions.

What People Do:

On this day:

• Participation in Events: Many attend events that celebrate indigenous heritage.
• Reflection and Education: People reflect on the contributions of Native Americans and educate themselves about tribes’ histories.
• Support for Businesses: Some may choose to support Native American-owned businesses or charities.

Each state or locality may have its own specific ways of observing American Indian Day. It serves as an important reminder of the rich cultures that predated European settlement in North America and continues to influence society today.