New Mexico’s U.S senators introduce legislation to commemorate, celebrate Indigenous Peoples’ Day

New Mexico U.S. Sens. Martin Heinrich and Ben Ray Luján and California U.S. Rep. Norma Torres introduced legislation Monday to replace the official holiday recognized on the second Monday of October as Indigenous Peoples’ Day.

The bill would also replace any mention of Columbus Day in all federal laws or regulations with Indigenous Peoples’ Day.

“Federally designating Indigenous Peoples’ Day honors the strength and resilience of tribal nations while we continue our efforts to uplift tribal communities and support tribal sovereignty,” Heinrich said. “I’m proud to stand with tribes and pueblos who have led the way to re-frame this national holiday to honor all of the significant contributions and diverse cultures of tribal communities.”

More than a dozen states across the country have recognized this change, including New Mexico. In 2021, President Joe Biden became the first U.S. president to formally commemorate Indigenous Peoples’ Day.

“I’m proud to help lead the effort to officially designate the second Monday in October as Indigenous Peoples’ Day,” said Luján, a member of the Senate Committee on Indian Affairs. “Just as we celebrate Indigenous Peoples’ Day in New Mexico, I hope to see Congress pass this legislation to do the same across the country. Native people play a vital role in society and in our nation’s history, especially in New Mexico — from serving in the military, teaching in the classroom, to running small businesses. Let Indigenous Peoples’ Day serve as a celebration of tribal nations and serve as a reminder of the work ahead to fulfill the federal government’s trust responsibility to tribes and pueblos.”

The legislation is supported by The Navajo Nation, All Pueblo Council of Governors, National Congress of American Indians, Indigenous Peoples’ Initiative, Association on American Indian Affairs, Santa Rosa Rancheria Tachi Yokut Tribe, the Pocahontas Project, Cherokee Nation, National Council of Urban Indian Health, and Barona Band of Mission Indians.

“Recognizing and celebrating the rich histories, cultures, and contributions of indigenous peoples is an essential step towards promoting understanding, equality and respect. By replacing Columbus Day with Indigenous Peoples’ Day, we acknowledge the resilience, wisdom and enduring presence of indigenous communities, fostering unity and honoring the diverse tapestry of our nation’s heritage. My thanks go out to Senator Heinrich and Congresswoman Torres for the introduction of the Indigenous Peoples Day Act in their respective houses,” said Navajo Nation President Dr. Buu Nygren Luján.