WASHINGTON, DC | The National Congress of American Indians (NCAI), the largest and most representative American Indian and Alaska Native organization in the country, applauds today’s vote by the Washington, D.C. City Council to celebrate Monday, October 14, 2019 as Indigenous Peoples’ Day in the Nation’s Capital, replacing Columbus Day.

With the passage of this legislation, Washington, D.C. joins seven states and more than 130 cities and towns across the country who currently celebrate Indigenous Peoples’ Day.

“In a city that itself sits on Piscataway land, we commend the D.C. City Council for voting to join the growing number of cities, counties, states, and school districts in formally celebrating Indigenous Peoples’ Day,” said NCAI CEO Kevin Allis. “This change allows the opportunity to bring more awareness to the unique, rich history of this land that is inextricably tied to the first peoples of this country and predates the voyage of Christopher Columbus. It also acknowledges American Indians and Alaska Natives as thriving, contemporary sovereign nations who hold their rightful place among the American family of governments.”

In 2011, NCAI passed a resolution advocating for the renaming of the second Monday of October to Indigenous Peoples’ Day. NCAI has seen a groundswell of support enhanced by this resolution and continues to encourage United States citizens to recognize and celebrate the heritage of indigenous peoples as part of the diverse mosaic of American society.

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About The National Congress of American Indians:

Founded in 1944, the National Congress of American Indians is the oldest, largest and most representative American Indian and Alaska Native organization in the country. NCAI advocates on behalf of tribal governments and communities, promoting strong tribal-federal government-to-government policies, and promoting a better understanding among the general public regarding American Indian and Alaska Native governments, people and rights. For more information visit www.ncai.org.