Virginia recognizing Indigenous People Day on Monday instead of Columbus Day

The majority of states across the country today are recognizing the federal holiday known as Columbus Day, but for the first time in Virginia history, they are celebrating Indigenous People’s Day.

Gov. Ralph Northam announced a proclamation last week that the Commonwealth would become the 10th state to recognize the celebration and honoring of Native Americans including their people, history, and culture.

Northam said in part on a video message last week, “As a country and as a Commonwealth, we have too often failed to live up to our commitments with the Indigenous Peoples, who’s land we now call Virginia,” said Northam.

For the first time in Virginia history, we are recognizing Indigenous Peoples’ Day in our Commonwealth—this year on Monday, October 12.

This is a day to celebrate our tribal communities and promote reconciliation, healing, and continued friendship with Virginia’s Indian tribes. pic.twitter.com/etLPiYgKPv

— Ralph Northam (@GovernorVA) October 9, 2020

Northam also said that Indigenous People’s Day celebrates the resilience of the state’s tribal communities and promotes reconciliation as well as healing and friendship with the state’s 11 recognized tribes.

Photo/Video Courtesy: Gov. Northam via Twitter