As Native Americans across the U.S. come together on Monday to celebrate Indigenous Peoples Day, the focus will be on honoring their history and culture while addressing the pressing challenges they continue to face, particularly in the realm of voting. With just three weeks until Election Day, a variety of events aimed at mobilizing Native voters are scheduled throughout the country.
From a vibrant voting rally in Minneapolis featuring food, games, and raffles to a public discussion on the significance of the Native vote at Virginia Tech, this year’s Indigenous Peoples Day will emphasize the power and importance of Native voter participation. In 2020, Native voters played a crucial role in the presidential election, with increased turnout on tribal lands in Arizona contributing to Joe Biden’s victory—a state that had not favored a Democratic candidate in a presidential election since 1996.
Janeen Comenote, executive director of the National Urban Indian Family Coalition, highlighted the urgency of mobilizing Native voters in the upcoming election. “This year it’s especially important because the country is selecting the president,” said Comenote, a citizen of the Quinault Indian Nation. However, she noted the diverse political views within Native communities, emphasizing that the coalition’s goal is to encourage participation rather than dictate how individuals should vote.
“Ultimately, we want to get Native voters out to the polls, understanding that they have a voice in a democracy that we helped create,” she added.
In Arizona, the coalition is partnering with the Phoenix Indian Center to host a town hall event titled “Democracy Is Indigenous: Power Of The Native Vote,” featuring speakers, performances, and Indigenous artwork focused on the theme of democracy. Meanwhile, in Apex, North Carolina, about 14 miles southwest of Raleigh, the coalition is collaborating with the Triangle Native American Society to celebrate the 100th anniversary of the Indian Citizenship Act of 1924. This event will include a booth providing nonpartisan voter information and giveaways.
While Indigenous Peoples Day is not a federal holiday, it is officially recognized by 17 states, including Washington, South Dakota, and Maine, as well as Washington, D.C. The holiday falls on the second Monday in October, coinciding with Columbus Day, and serves as a reminder of the ongoing struggles and resilience of Native communities.
As Native Americans gather for celebrations and advocacy on Indigenous Peoples Day, their efforts to mobilize voters underscore the critical role that Native voices will play in shaping the political landscape in the coming election. The commitment to voter engagement highlights the importance of recognizing Native Americans not just as a part of history, but as active participants in democracy today.