Indigenous Peoples’ Day, observed annually on the second Monday of October, celebrates the immense contributions the indigenous community has made to society. It serves to honor the resilience, contributions, struggles and successes of this community in the past, present and future.
Instituted in 1992 in Berkeley, California, the observation eventually spread throughout numerous cities and states, including Oklahoma City. Mayor Holt signed a proclamation in 2018 declaring Oct 9th as Indigenous Peoples’ Day!
The First Americans Museum in Oklahoma City hosted a free celebratory event on Monday, October 9th from 10am – 4pm. The family friendly event celebrated the 39 tribal nations and indigenous communities located in Oklahoma City through film screenings, food trucks, performances, social dancing, stickball games and more! Oklahoma City University served as one of the sponsors for this community event in addition to sponsoring their own event on campus.
The OCU Office of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion partnered with the Native American Law Student Association to host their second Indigenous Culture Night on OCU’s main campus that evening. Taking place in the Great Hall, the evening provided free dinner and entertainment for anyone interested. A variety of dance and musical demonstrations took place. Dancer Cecil Gray led these performances joined by family and friends who also performed.
Last year’s Indigenous Culture Night took place in January. Moving the event to October allowed for it to coincide with Indigenous Peoples’ Day and involve the campus community with a greater purpose and cause!
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