What is Indigenous Peoples’ Day in New York?
Indigenous Peoples' Day in New York State is a growing movement that honors the rich history, culture, and contributions of Native American communities. Celebrated on the second Monday of October, the day serves as an alternative to Columbus Day, reframing the narrative to recognize the original inhabitants of North America and the enduring impact of colonialism. Across New York State, a wide range of activities, celebrations, and educational events take place to pay tribute to Indigenous peoples and their ongoing resilience.
In upstate regions, where many Native communities are located, such as the Haudenosaunee Confederacy (Iroquois), Indigenous Peoples' Day has become a meaningful occasion. Communities like the Onondaga Nation and Seneca Nation often hold events that emphasize cultural preservation, language revitalization, and traditional practices. These events include powwows, drum circles, storytelling, and ceremonies that honor ancestors and highlight the continuing importance of Native traditions. The Onondaga Nation, located near Syracuse, plays a central role in organizing educational programs to inform the public about their history and environmental stewardship efforts, particularly in advocating for clean water and land restoration.
Throughout the state, universities, schools, and local governments have begun recognizing Indigenous Peoples' Day as an official holiday, replacing or sharing the day with Columbus Day. Educational institutions host discussions, film screenings, and lectures that explore topics such as Native American history, the impact of colonization, and the contemporary issues Indigenous communities face, including land sovereignty and environmental justice.
In places like Buffalo and Rochester, Indigenous Peoples' Day is observed with cultural festivals that showcase Native art, crafts, and food, inviting non-Native residents to participate and learn. Across New York State, Indigenous Peoples' Day is gaining recognition as a time for reflection, education, and solidarity with Native American communities, ensuring their stories and contributions remain an integral part of the state’s history.