American Indian Day Being Celebrated in Many States Today
Levi Rickert, editor-in-chief in Native Travel. Discussion »
PORTLAND, OREGON – Several states celebrate the fourth Friday in September as American Indian Day – or Native American Day.
Sky Royce Kennedy dancing at Chicago Powwow
With this day, some tribal offices may be closed to celebrate American Indian Day.
States have designated this day as American Indian Day to honor the culture and contributions American Indians have provided to their respective states.
The Northwest Portland Area Indian Health Board and other local Indian organizations will be hosting the 8th annual "American Indian Day Celebration".
The event will take place at the Pioneer Courthouse Square in downtown Portland. The "American Indian Day Celebration" provides an opportunity to increase awareness on the many challenges that American Indian people face, as well as celebrate American Indian cultures.
The Miccosukee Tribe in Miami Florida Celebrates American Indian Day with events including a Fashion Show, alligator wrestling, arts and crafts, and music and dancers.
American Indian Day Celebration at the PioneerCourthouse Square in downtown Portland
The first American Indian Day was celebrated in May 1916 in New York. The Illinois state legislature enacted a bill 1919 to make the fourth Friday in September as American Indian Day. In 1935, the Massachusetts governor issued a proclamation to make the fourth Friday in September as American Indian Day in any year.
In 1968, California Governor Ronald Reagan signed a resolution designating the fourth Friday in September as American Indian Day.
The State of Michigan designated the fourth Friday of September as Michigan Indian Day through Act 30 of 1974, Section 435.161. It was signed by then Governor William Milliken.
In 1998, the California State Assembly enacted legislation creating Native American Day as an official state holiday.
As an alternative to celebrating Columbus, at least two states, Alabama and South Dakota, have declared that day to be American Indian Day.
posted September 27, 2013 9:10 am edt
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