Virginia Will Celebrate Indigenous Peoples' Day For First Time

Governor Ralph Northam declared that Monday, October 12, 2020, is Indigenous Peoples' Day in Virginia, the first time the state has recognized the holiday. In a statement released Friday, Gov. Northam said this was an "important step forward in our work to build an inclusive Commonwealth."

"Indigenous Peoples' Day celebrates the resilience of our tribal communities and promotes reconciliation, healing, and continued friendship with Virginia's Indian tribes," he continued. "In making this proclamation, we pay tribute to the culture, history, and many contributions of Virginia Indians and recommit to cultivating strong government-to-government partnerships that are grounded in mutual trust and respect."

Two Native American chiefs issued statements after Gov. Northam's announcement.

"I am excited and proud of Virginia and Governor Northam for making this monumental decision to declare October 12 as Indigenous Peoples' Day," said Chief W. Frank Adams of the Upper Mattaponi Indian Tribe. "This is a long overdue honor for all tribes and native people of Virginia and I applaud Governor Northam for being the leader of this movement. After more than 400 years of suffering, I hope this leads to other states and the federal government will get behind this movement."

"The Rappahannock's are so grateful to our Governor for the work he has done to restore honor to our tribes and equality to all people," said Chief Anne Richardson of the Rappahannock Tribe. "I believe he is a profound reflection of the intent of the founding fathers values when this country was established."

Eleven Native American tribes are recognized by the state of Virginia: Cheroenhaka (Nottoway), Chickahominy, Chickahominy Eastern Division, Mattaponi, Monacan Nation, Nansemond, Nottoway Indian Tribe of Virginia, Pamunkey, Patawomeck Indian Tribe of Virginia, Rappahannock, and the Upper Mattaponi. Seven of these tribes are federally recognized.

Gov. Northam continued, "We have too often failed to live up to our communities with those who were the first stewards of the lands we now call Virginia — now, we are taking an important step forward in our ongoing work to build a more inclusive and honest Commonwealth."

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