Today is Indigenous Peoples’ Day, and I’m seeing a lot of articles about why it’s important, explaining what the day means to Indigenous people, but most of the articles I’m seeing aren’t even written by Indigenous people. While I myself am not an Indigenous person, I feel a kinship with them as a Black Woman living in America.
Don't get me wrong I love the idea of Indigenous Peoples’ Day, but I often wonder is this enough? One day out of 365 days where these amazing people are celebrated. I wonder what else is being done in a substantial way to help the indigenous communities that were torn apart by greed? I wonder what is being done about the disparities in their communities, such as health, sexual assault, etc. I recently learned there is no government database for missing Indigenous Women and that broke my heart.
So yes, lets celebrate Indigenous Peoples’ Day! But let’s do more as well. Let’s support their businesses, let’s read their books, let’s learn the true stories about their history, identity and rich culture, let’s listen to them when they tell us what they need and let’s continue to fight for their liberation, equality and equity the same way we fight for ours! Happy Indigenous Peoples' Day!
