Today is Indigenous Peoples’ Day, a holiday that acknowledges the existence of thriving communities and cultures prior to colonization as well as the ongoing harm of colonization to Indigenous peoples and lifts up the continued contributions of Native Americans to all aspects of life. This is the second year Oregon has observed this holiday.
The 2020 census found that in Oregon, 129,081 people identify as Native American or Alaska Native, which represents 3% of the state’s population.
One of the ways we can participate Indigenous Peoples’ Day is by learning whose land we are on.
For families looking to participate in a local event to commemorate Indigenous People, learn about the Land Back movement and experience a Pow-Wow, Great Spirit United Methodist Church and Future Generations Collaborative are hosting an event this evening.
The Oregon Department of Education has an open-source curriculum with lesson plans and plans to integrate Native American history into the classroom in a resource called Tribal History/ Shared History.
The Portland Art Museum has a collection of Native American art in its permanent collection. On the second and third floors of the museum’s main building, visitors can experience prehistoric, historic and contemporary objects and art that is organized by region and culture.
Families for Diversity, Equity & Inclusion at Le Monde French Immersion 