California Native American Day
Geoff Benn • October 3, 2024
California Native American Day began as “Indian Day” in 1939 under then Governor Culbert Olson. Later, in 1968, under the guidance of Tribal leaders and Governor Ronald Reagan, the event became known as California Native American Day. California Native American Day occurs annually on the fourth Friday of September and commemorates the culture and contributions of the original stewards of California. The celebration brings together California tribes, organizations, universities and state agencies to recognize and honor the contributions made by California Native Americans in the past, present and to continue into the future. The day serves to honor California’s first people by nurturing a greater understanding and appreciation of Native American heritage and to educate students and community members about California’s Native Americans enduring and vibrant culture and values.
This year’s California Native American Day was celebrated on Friday, September 27th with events around the state and at the State Capitol. The State Capitol event featured a full schedule of speakers that began with an opening prayer led by the Chairpeople of the Manzanita Band of Kumeyaay Nation, the Karuk Tribe, and Wilton Rancheria. The prayer was followed by a discussion of the importance of voting. The theme of this year’s event in honor of the 100th anniversary of the Indian Citizenship Act of 1924. In addition to the speakers, the event also included tabling from a wide range of organizations, including tribes, college scholarship and support organizations, healthcare providers, social justice groups, cultural education organizations, state and local agencies, conservation groups, and more. It was truly an impressive and inspiring event.
About the authors: This piece was written by Geoff Benn, Tuleyome's Education Associate, and Kristie Erhardt, Tuleyome's Land Conservation and Stewardship Program Director.
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