Indigenous people day October 12, 2026
Indigenous Peoples’ Day is observed on the second Monday of October in the United States as a day to honor the histories, cultures, and ongoing contributions of Native Americans, Alaska Natives, and Native Hawaiians. It serves as an alternative to Columbus Day, shifting attention from celebrating European arrival to recognizing the peoples who lived in the Americas long before 1492 and acknowledging the lasting impacts of colonization.
As we celebrate Indigenous Peoples day, we hope to honor and highlight the voices of those who historically have been neglected and marginalized. In a spirit of humble unity, we offer this traditional Native American prayer, translated by Sioux Chief Yellow Lark in the late 19th century. May we continue to listen to and learn from those who have come before
Prayer for Indigenous Peoples Day
Great Spirit Prayer, Chief Yellow Lark In the wind, whose breath gives life to all the world. Hear me; I need your strength and wisdom. Let me walk in beauty, and make my eyes ever behold the red and purple sunset. Make my hands respect the things you have made and my ears sharp to hear your voice. Make me wise so that I may understand the things you have taught my people. Help me to remain calm and strong in the face of all that comes towards me. Let me learn the lessons you have hidden in every leaf and rock. Help me seek pure thoughts and act with the intention of helping others. Help me find compassion without empathy overwhelming me. I seek strength, not to be greater than my brother, but to fight my greatest enemy, Myself. Make me always ready to come to you with clean hands and straight eye So, when life fades, as the fading sunset, my spirit may come to you without shame. Amen
What the day represents: The day Honors Indigenous cultures and histories: The day celebrates the diversity, resilience, and cultural richness of Indigenous communities. Correcting historical narratives: It challenges the traditional glorification of Columbus by highlighting the violence, displacement, and exploitation Indigenous peoples faced during and after European colonization. Promoting awareness and education: Many states and cities hold cultural events, educational programs, and community gatherings to deepen understanding of Indigenous experiences. The idea of replacing Columbus Day with a celebration of Indigenous peoples was first proposed in 1977 at a United Nations conference. South Dakota became the first state to adopt a Native Americans’ Day in 1990. Berkeley, California was the first city to officially celebrate Indigenous Peoples’ Day in 1992. In 2021, President Joe Biden issued the first presidential proclamation formally recognizing Indigenous Peoples’ Day at the federal level. Why it matters today: Indigenous Peoples’ Day invites Americans to tell a fuller story—one that acknowledges both the deep histories of Indigenous nations and the injustices they endured. It encourages reflection, education, and respect for Indigenous sovereignty and cultural survival.
