Celebrating Native People

Indigenous Peoples’ Day is an official Oregon state holiday devoted to commemorating Indigenous peoples’ culture and history. It lands on Columbus Day, this year, as a counter-celebration to acknowledge the injustices Native American tribes have faced at the hands of European colonizers. Here are a few ways to celebrate locally and learn more about the history of Indigenous people in Oregon on Indigenous People’s Day Oct. 13. The Native American Student Union will hold an Indigenous People’s Day Celebration at the EMU Amphitheater, complete with its annual flag raising ceremony, speakers lecturing on culture and history, and a showcase of traditional dances. The Jordan Schnitzer Museum of Art opens its doors outside of regular hours and provides free admission to honor the day, providi