Did you know that in 2000, the Alabama State Legislature named the day commonly known as Columbus Day as “American Indian Heritage Day”? Several states prefer to call it Indigenous Peoples’ Day, as a way to celebrate the original inhabitants of this land. Here in a state whose name has Native American origins, we found five ways you can honor the day.
1. Head to the 3rd Annual Indigenous Peoples’ Day Celebration in Montgomery
Location: Court Square Fountain, Montgomery
When: Monday, October 11, 3-5:30PM
Alabama Indigenous Coalition is a native-led nonprofit working toward a future where all Native people and communities are visible, respected and treated equally both in Alabama and across the country.
2. Visit 5 sites of significance to Native Americans in North Alabama on Indigenous Peoples’ Day in Alabama
Last week we rounded up five unique ways you can observe Indigenous Peoples’ Day in North Alabama. Whether you want to see mounds, museums or horses, you’re sure to find something to help you learn more about Alabama’s Indigenous Peoples.
3. Go to the Birmingham Museum of Art for two Native American art exhibitions + to see the Jingle Dress Dance Oct. 16
On Saturday, October 9, two new exhibitions opened up in Birmingham:
- Lost Realms of the Moundbuilders: Ancient Native Americans of the South and Midwest—explores the archaeology and history of the Mississippian Moundbuilders.
- Voices So True: New Native American Art from the Clyde Oyster Bequest—features the work of seven contemporary Native American artists, whose vision gives voice to Native American perspectives past and present.
This coming Saturday, October 16, from 11AM-1PM, there will be a live performance of The Jingle Dress Dance, as part of Art Heals: The Jingle Dress Project. There will also be a presentation and Q&A discussion with artist Eugene Tapahe and the dancers.
- When: Saturday, October 16, 11AM-1PM
- Cost: free | Registration required
4. Buy Native American-made goods in honor of Indigenous Peoples’ Day in Alabama
Last year, we did a roundup of ways to buy authentic, Native American-made goods in Alabama. One fun update: the Poarch Creek Indians Museum & Gift Shop is now online.
5. Check out the 2021 Virtual Moundville Native American Festival online
While the actual festival took place October 7-9, since it’s all virtual, you can see it any time. Here are just a few of the things you can experience if you visit the festival online:
- Language lessons
- Story time
- And more
Now tell us, Alabama, how do you plan to observe Indigenous People’s Day this year? Tag us @thebamabuzz and let us know.