Tag Archives: Indigenous People’s Day

Indigenous People’s Day Brings Visibility and Sense of Belonging

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6a1a1f647eOn Monday, October 9, the Native American Initiative (NAI), Nuestra Casa, and their partners celebrated Indigenous People’s Day. In this inaugural East Palo Alto Indigenous People’s Day event, approximately 80 guests joined the organizers in celebrating and learning about indigenous healing practices and views of wellness.

While the event was enjoyed by all attendees, the acknowledgement of Indigenous People’s Day is controversial for many Americans. Though the documented atrocities of Columbus’s landing are hard to deny, many feel that Columbus paved the way for the United States of America to exist which is itself worthy of celebration. The Native American Initiative has welcomed conversation on this topic. Last year, BHRS teams invited the NAI to join staff meetings and discuss the importance of indigenous experiences and acknowledging Indigenous People’s Day. What began as controversy became an opportunity for exchange and shared understanding.

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In Observance of Indigenous People’s Day

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Indigenous Peoples Day Clinic Closed flyer 10 2016

Credit: Ana Mila, AOD Intern

In acknowledgment of the original inhabitants of this continent –American Indians, Alaska Natives, and Native Hawaiians, San Mateo County’s Behavioral Health and Recovery Services will close on Monday, October 9th in observance of Indigenous People’s Day.

Honoring Indigenous People’s Day helps provide indigenous communities with a stage to reveal historical truths of genocide and oppression as well as current injustices. It also allows our San Mateo County community to celebrate indigenous resilience, resistance, and empowerment by connecting indigenous identity to something beyond controversies over sports teams and cultural appropriation.

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