As part of a growing number of cities and schools shift away from celebrating Columbus Day, Governor Bill Walker signed an executive proclamation recognizing today as Indigenous People’s Day in Alaska.
The proclamation recognizes Alaska as one “big village,” with over 16 percent of the State population having indigenous heritage – the highest percentage in the U.S.
It also states, “the State opposes systematic racism toward Indigenous Peoples of Alaska or any Alaskans of any origin and promotes policies and practices that reflect the experiences of Indigenous Peoples, ensure greater access and opportunity, and honor our nation’s indigenous roots, history, and contributions.”
The national campaigns to change the federal holiday which honors Christopher Columbus say that it currently overlooks the painful history of colonialism, enslavement, discrimination, and land grabs that followed the explorer’s 1492 arrival in the Americas.
Activists argue that by making it an indigenous holiday, it recognizes the history and contributions of Native Americans.
Walker’s proclamation says it creates, “an opportunity to promote appreciation, tolerance, understanding, friendship, and partnerships among Indigenous Peoples and all Alaskans.”