Indigenous Peoples' Day

Honoring the rich history and contributions of Indigenous communities, the Council adopted a resolution recognizing Indigenous People’s Day. The resolution reflects a growing commitment to acknowledging the sovereignty and cultural heritage of Indigenous peoples in our region.

Indigenous Peoples' Day is celebrated annually on the second Monday in October, coinciding with the traditional Columbus Day observance. The decision to recognize this day stems from an increasing awareness of the historical injustices faced by Indigenous communities and a desire to foster inclusivity and respect.

Indigenous Peoples of the lands that would later become known as the Americas have lived upon and been caretakers of these lands for countless generations, and the City of Boston is situated on the traditional territory of the Massachusett at Ponkapoag Tribe.

Boston is home to at least 11,000 Indigenous people from the US and Canada, including members of the Massachusett, Wampanoag, Nipmuc, and other nations, as well as members of tribes throughout the US and Canada, with thousands more residents being Indigenous people from Latin America.

As Boston continues to embrace diversity and inclusion, the recognition of Indigenous Peoples’ Day marks a positive stride toward healing and understanding among all residents.