Indigenous communities will gather for the 10th anniversary of the East Coast’s largest Indigenous Peoples’ Day event at Randall’s Island Park, Oct. 13-14, 2024.
The free, 24-hour festival begins at 10 a.m. Sunday and features an Intertribal Grand Entry at noon, followed by performances until sundown. On Monday, a Sunrise Tobacco and Water Ceremony begins at 7 a.m., with programming continuing until 2 p.m.
This year’s gathering will highlight Indigenous resistance movements and honor LaDonna Brave Bull Allard, founder of the Sacred Stone Camp at Standing Rock. Pua Case will lead the IPDNYC (Indigenous People’s Day New York City) Water Ceremony, emphasizing the importance of Earth’s waters. Speakers include boxer and actress Kali Reis, and Jordan Marie Whetstone of Rising Hearts.
The event features Indigenous artisans, traditional foods, and dances.
“More and more people are questioning the celebration of Columbus Day each year,” says Cliff Matias, a founding member of IPDNYC and the Redhawk Native American Council.
Though New York City does not recognize Indigenous Peoples’ Day, IPDNYC has launched a Change.org petition and GoFundMe campaign to rename the holiday and support their efforts. Follow @IPDNYC on Instagram for updates.
