On October 14, 2024, countries around the world celebrate Indigenous Peoples’ Day. Over 476 million indigenous people live in 90 countries worldwide. In the United States, Americans honor the traditions and culture of Native Americans on this day. It also allows them to reflect on historical injustices and ongoing inequities that affect Indigenous communities. The holiday isn’t a recognized federal holiday yet but there is growing support for it to become one. There are various ways you can show your support.
Play casino games at tribal casinos
Pay a visit to a tribal casino and have fun playing slot games, and table games like roulette, blackjack, and poker. Michigan has 27 Native American gaming casinos. They are owned and operated by 12 federally recognized Native American tribes. The revenues from tribal gaming fund basic services such as education and infrastructure investments. You can have some great entertainment, and if you win any money, you could donate it to causes like the American Indian College Fund or Coalition to Stop Violence Against Native Women.
Purchase from Indigenous businesses
Native American entrepreneurs often face challenges such as regulatory hurdles, a lack of infrastructure, and limited access to capital. Historical marginalization and cultural barriers can make it harder for their businesses to thrive. However, many Native American entrepreneurs are proving that their perseverance and creativity can pave the way for success.
Supporting indigenous businesses is an impactful way to celebrate the day. Purchase items like beaded jewelry with Native American patterns from indigenous creators rather than big box retailers. Native American entrepreneurs sell many items today, from beauty and healthcare products to clothing, décor items, and cookbooks. Two businesses worth checking out are Indian Pueblo Store and Beyond Buckskin.
Share about Indigenous People’s Day on social media
Social media posts are a powerful way to raise awareness for causes. You can post about Indigenous People’s Day on your social media accounts. Follow some indigenous-led social media accounts. Share some of the things you have learned from Native Americans about conservation and sustainable food practices. You could even collaborate with Native American businesses in a brand partnership.
Amplifying the voices of Indigenous artists and creators on social media is also helpful. This could be an artist, storyteller, or a dancer. You could give a shout-out to the Indigenous Cultures Institute which does so much to preserve indigenous cultures.
Read books by Indigenous people
Reading a book by an Indigenous author can give you insights into Indigenous people’s history and its consequences on people and their right to self-determination. Margaret Verble, a Pulitzer finalist, is the author of Cherokee America, a historical drama set in Cherokee country that illustrates this well.
Cheyenne Madonna by Eddie Chuculate is a collection of voice-driven stories about being members of the Cherokee and Muscogee nations in Oklahoma. Linda LeGarde Grover of the Anishinaabe nation is a writer of many books, including The Road Back to Sweetgrass. It takes you into the worlds of three women who leave the Mozhay Point Reservation but are always drawn back.
Take online classes to learn traditional skills
The Redhawk Native American Arts Council offers online workshops where you can explore indigenous art and culture. You can take online music classes where you will learn about the instruments indigenous people still use today for celebrations and ceremonies. You can see flute, drum, and singing demonstrations. Children’s educational music has progressed, but it is interesting to see how much it’s a part of early childhood development in Native American tribes.
In online native art classes, instructors will teach you different art practices such as basket weaving, jewelry making, and beading. There are also online dance workshops where you will learn a brief history of Pow Wows and the basic moves and dances. You can even do cultural sensitivity training to expose some myths about Native Americans.
Attend a local festival
Attending a community celebration of a tribe in your local area will expose you to its traditions and culture. You can enjoy live music, Native American foods, booths showcasing traditional art forms, and more. A powwow usually has dancing, singing, feasting, and other cultural activities.
