California Indian Day

The 4th Friday in September

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California Indian Day, celebrated annually on the fourth Friday of September, is a day of reflection, recognition, and celebration of the culture and contributions of Natives in California. While the state’s Native populations are diverse and represent over 100 Tribes, this day serves as a collective opportunity to acknowledge the past, recognize ongoing struggles, and honor the continued cultural resilience of California's Native peoples.

 The roots of California Indian Day go back to the mid-20th century, specifically 1968, when Governor Ronald Reagan first declared a day to recognize the Native peoples of California. However, this day was initially called American Indian Day and was part of a broader movement to provide acknowledgment and honor to Natives nationwide. In 1998, it was officially recognized as California Indian Day, and its significance shifted toward focusing on the unique histories and cultures of the Tribes in the Golden State. This move was pivotal, as it gave specific attention to California’s Tribal communities, whose histories had been deeply impacted by colonization, missionization, and state-sanctioned violence.

 California’s Native communities have endured many challenges, including the near-eradication of our populations during the Spanish mission era, followed by state-sponsored violence of over 2 million in cash paid by Governor Peter Burnet and forced assimilation during the 19th and 20th centuries. Despite these efforts to suppress Native cultures, Native Californians have held onto and revitalized their languages, traditions, and spiritual practices. California Indian Day stands as a tribute to that enduring cultural survival.

 Native peoples in California have made significant contributions to the state’s agricultural practices, environmental stewardship, and cultural landscape. From their knowledge of land management—such as controlled burns to prevent forest fires—to the preservation of Native plants and wildlife, our contributions are part of the state’s ecological fabric. This day provides a platform to educate the public about these invaluable contributions.

 Beyond reflection, California Indian Day is a time to celebrate the vibrancy of Native life today. Communities come together in powwows, cultural exhibitions, and ceremonies to share their living traditions, such as basket weaving, dance, and storytelling. This celebration is not just a nod to the past but a living, breathing testament to the continuity and adaptability of Native traditions in modern times.

 In a state that often glosses over the darker parts of its history, California Indian Day serves as a reminder of the need for continued advocacy, visibility, and respect for Native peoples. It’s a day that encourages non-Native Californians to learn about the first inhabitants of the land they now call home, fostering greater understanding and mutual respect.

 California Indian Day is not just a holiday; it is a powerful acknowledgment of the enduring presence and resilience of California’s Native peoples. It offers both a celebration of Tribal culture and a solemn reminder of the struggles and injustices Native communities have faced. By commemorating this day, we take steps toward a future where Native histories are honored, and our rights and contributions are respected in both California and the nation as a whole.

 Let us use this day to listen, learn, and uplift the voices of California’s first peoples, ensuring our stories are heard and our cultures continue to thrive.

As always, If you don’t know now you know, a Native!

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Annual Nome Cult Walk