Indigenous Peoples' Day

American  

[in-dij-uh-nuhs pee-puhlz dey] / ɪnˈdɪdʒ ə nəs ˈpi pəlz ˌdeɪ /

noun

1. the second Monday in October, a holiday in the United States that honors the Indigenous peoples of the Americas and celebrates their history and culture: In many states and other localities, the holiday is variously observed in place of Columbus Day or along with it.

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Etymology

Origin of Indigenous Peoples' Day

First recorded in 1990–95

Example Sentences

Dozens of U.S. cities and states — including Los Angeles, Seattle, and Philadelphia — now observe Indigenous Peoples’ Day to honor Native resilience and acknowledge the violence of colonization.

From Salon • Oct. 13, 2025

However, Indigenous Peoples’ Day remained a nonfederal holiday.

From Barron's • Oct. 13, 2025

But over time, the day has also become known as Indigenous Peoples’ Day in recognition of the native people who called America home before Columbus’ arrival.

From MarketWatch • Oct. 10, 2025

Rio de Janeiro's iconic Christ the Redeemer statue was lit up green to celebrate Indigenous Peoples' Day on Friday.

From BBC • Apr. 19, 2024

The U.S. bond market was shut on Monday for Columbus Day, also known as Indigenous Peoples' Day.

From Reuters • Oct. 9, 2023