Celebrated annually on the second Monday of October, Indigenous Peoples’ Day, honors the rich culture, history, and contributions of Native and Indigenous peoples. As we commemorate the observance, it is important for us to remember the countless sacrifices made by our nation’s first people and the resilience indigenous communities continue to demonstrate in the face of today’s ongoing challenges.
In 1992, Berkely, California became the first U.S. city to recognize the holiday. In 2021, the first-ever presidential proclamation was issued by President Joe Biden. Although not a federal holiday, several local municipalities, including the cities of Phoenix and Tempe, now observe Indigenous Peoples’ Day.
Native and Indigenous peoples’ have left their mark on the Southwest for more than 13,000 years. The Grand Canyon state is home to 22 federally recognized tribes, including the Ak-Chin Indian Community, Havasupai Tribe, Navajo Nation, Tohono O’odham Nation, Hopi Tribe, and many more. With the third largest Native American population in the U.S. and a quarter of the state’s land area designated as tribal land, Native and Indigenous peoples’ have woven their traditional practices, connection to the earth, sacred languages, unique art, storytelling, and community-centered values into Arizona’s identity.
Our tie to local Indigenous cultures starts with our name—Maricopa—which comes from the Salt River Pima-Maricopa Indian Community, made up of two distinct tribes, the Onk Akimel O’odham (Pima) and the Xalychidom Piipaash (Maricopa).
This Indigenous Peoples’ Day, I encourage you to pause and reflect on the land and Indigenous spaces we inhabit. Take time to listen and learn by engaging with Native and Indigenous voices throughout our campuses and across our local communities. Together, let us acknowledge the resilience and wisdom of Native and Indigenous societies and our commitment to supporting and empowering them through ongoing academic support, community collaboration, and advocacy.