Celebrating Resilience: Indigenous Peoples’ Day at Santa Clara University

At the heart of Santa Clara University is the Mission Church, a place where beauty meets complex history. This site holds deep significance for many, symbolizing both the university’s past and its complicated connections to the Muwekma Ohlone people, whose lives and land were deeply affected by colonization. As we recognize Indigenous Peoples’ Day, it’s essential to remember their stories and ongoing presence.

Indigenous Peoples’ Day started in 1977 at a conference aimed at addressing discrimination against Indigenous communities. It was designed to honor their cultures and histories, rather than celebrating Columbus Day, which mistakenly glorifies Columbus’s “discovery” of America. Professor Jessica Young, an Urban Native from the Bay Area and a member of the Seneca-Cayuga tribe, reflected on this, stating, “It always felt like a counter movement… But the renaming gave me a sense of freedom, like this is a day all about Indigenous people.”

For years, Indigenous Peoples’ Day was not widely recognized until President Joe Biden formally acknowledged it in 2021. This federal recognition marked a significant shift, giving legitimacy to a celebration that focuses on Indigenous heritage. However, the past remains contentious, as seen when former President Trump praised Columbus in his 2025 proclamation, calling him a “true American hero.”

Despite such contrasts, Santa Clara University remains committed to honoring Indigenous Peoples’ Day. Activities like the Native American Symposium highlight this dedication. Isabella Gomez, a California Native and member of the Muwekma Ohlone Tribe, shares, “For me, Indigenous Peoples’ Day is about acknowledging our culture and history. It shouldn’t just be one day; it should be a year-round appreciation.”

The Mission Church, established in 1777 as part of a network of Franciscan missions, is a reminder of the harsh realities faced by Indigenous people. Gomez underscores the tension of studying at a place with such a painful history. “It’s harrowing… but it also makes me appreciate my community’s resilience,” she said.

The Mission bells stand as reminders of a structured life that Indigenous peoples were forced into, marking time for work, prayer, and meals. Young described feeling a connection to this history every time the bells ring, reflecting on their significance in her classes.

Both Gomez and Young find that being Indigenous in such a space carries a unique weight. They express hope for the future, driven by ongoing changes and the deep connections forged between the university and Native communities.

Santa Clara University recognizes the Muwekma Ohlone people in its land acknowledgment, emphasizing the importance of understanding and honoring their history. Gomez and Young believe strides have been made, pointing to initiatives like the Ohlone AR Tour, which launched in 2023. This app engages users in exploring Ohlone culture across campus.

However, they’ve identified gaps, such as the need for more prominent physical recognition of Indigenous histories. Gomez advocates for a plaque that accurately reflects the painful truths about the land’s past.

To further empower Indigenous youth, Gomez runs a cultural camp for Ohlone students, encouraging them to see the university as a welcoming space. She hopes for more Indigenous representation among students and faculty, as it is crucial for healing and growth.

Young echoes this sentiment, emphasizing the need for a deeper understanding of history beyond the surface offerings of the Mission. Both women encourage everyone to take a moment during Indigenous Peoples’ Day to reflect on Indigenous identities and their ongoing contributions.

As Gomez reminds us, “Indigenous people are not ancient history; we’re very much still alive. We’re here.” By recognizing this truth, we can foster a deeper understanding and respect for Indigenous communities today.



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