Alaska Pacific University celebrated Indigenous People’s Day with a vibrant event featuring music, dance, and traditional foods. APU President Janelle Vanass highlighted the importance of the day, emphasizing it as a chance for the community to come together, enjoy Native culture, and honor the contributions of Indigenous people both historically and today.
Indigenous People’s Day coincides with Columbus Day, a federal holiday that some see as celebrating Columbus’s achievements while overshadowing Native American history. Vanass reaffirmed that APU has always celebrated Indigenous People’s Day and intends to continue this tradition.
This celebration reflects the university’s roots, founded by Peter Gordon Gould, an Alaska Native man who aimed to provide access to higher education for Alaskans without them needing to leave the state. Today, APU is recognized as an Alaska Native-serving institution, with a diverse student body where about one-third identifies as Alaska Native.
Recent trends show a growing movement across the U.S. to recognize Indigenous People’s Day, shifting perspectives on history and its impact on Native communities. According to a 2022 survey by the Pew Research Center, more than half of Americans now support acknowledging Indigenous People’s Day. This change reflects a broader understanding of Indigenous rights and history.
In conclusion, events like the one at APU are essential for fostering cultural awareness and community connections, highlighting the ongoing journey toward respecting Indigenous traditions and recognizing their place in our society.
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APU,Alaska Pacific University,Indigenous Peoples Day
