Heinrich Leads Resolution Recognizing Indigenous Peoples’ Day

WASHINGTON - U.S. Senator Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.) led the introduction of a resolution to recognize the second Monday in October as Indigenous Peoples' Day, celebrating the rich histories, unique cultures, and lasting contributions of Indigenous Peoples across the United States.

The resolution also supports the official designation of Indigenous Peoples' Day as a federal holiday. Indigenous Peoples' Day is currently celebrated on the second Monday of October in over 200 municipalities and 17 states, including New Mexico.

"Since time immemorial, Native people have called the land we now know as New Mexico and the United States home. Their histories and legacy deserve enormous respect. That is why I am proud to continue leading the effort in the Senate to mark the second Monday in October as Indigenous Peoples' Day.

"I have the honor of working with the 23 Tribes and Pueblos in New Mexico, as well as with Tribal Nations across Indian Country. What I hear from Tribal leaders is consistent and clear: the federal government must step up and uphold its treaty and trust responsibilities, respect Tribal sovereignty, and stop attacking the programs and resources that Tribal members rely on. I wholeheartedly agree.

"As we recognize Indigenous Peoples' Day, today and every day, let us honor the rich history, cultures, and contributions of Tribal Nations and Native people - and stand shoulder to shoulder with Tribes to ensure their languages, traditions, and cultures continue to be passed down to future generations."

The resolution is cosponsored by U.S. Senators Ben Ray Luján (D-N.M.), Angus King (I-Maine), Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.), Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.), Brian Schatz (D-Hawaii), Tina Smith (D-Minn.), Ruben Gallego (D-Ariz.), John Hickenlooper (D-Colo.), Tim Kaine (D-Va.), Mazie Hirono (D-Hawaii), Jeff Merkley (D-Ore.), Adam Schiff (D-Calif.), Alex Padilla (D-Calif.), Cory Booker (D-N.J.), and Tammy Baldwin (D-Wis.).

The resolution is endorsed by the National Congress of American Indians (NCAI), Pueblo of Acoma, Alaska Federation of Natives, National Council of Urban Indian Health (NCUIH), Navajo Nation, All Pueblo Council of Governors (APCG).

The full text of the Indigenous Peoples' Day resolution is here. Heinrich has introduced legislation to recognize Indigenous Peoples' Day since 2021.

• Print
• Email
• Share
• Tweet