On October 11th, 2021, for the fourth time in the organization’s history, Health & Medicine Policy Research Group will be observing Indigenous Peoples’ Day.

The Indigenous Peoples of America continue to show strength and resilience in the face of adversity and injustice. They are made up of many different tribes with rich cultures and histories who have experienced thefts of their lands, languages, property, and lives since the arrival of settlers from Europe. This struggle for justice continues today, and Native peoples are often at the forefront of movements against inequities and for their own survival and well-being. Indigenous Peoples’ Day is an opportunity to celebrate the contributions of Native peoples and lend our voice in support of all those seeking freedom, sovereignty, and justice.

The definition of health equity that guides our work at Health & Medicine requires those working to advance equity to value all individuals and populations equally and to recognize and rectify historical injustices. Our decision to celebrate Indigenous Peoples’ Day honors that work by challenging the sanitized histories that are often taught about the United States and its founding, and contribute to health inequities to this day.

In short, we believe that historical context matters to health equity and that celebrating Indigenous Peoples’ Day is a step towards recognizing the full scope of American history and the unfinished work of advancing justice.

As public health and health care policy leaders, Health & Medicine invites our partners, other organizations, and our broader government to likewise celebrate and honor Indigenous People’s Day.

Learn:

• Indigenous Peoples’ Day: Why it’s replacing Columbus Day in many places
• Kim Janey signs executive order to replace Columbus Day with Indigenous Peoples Day in Boston
• Indigenous Peoples’ Day celebrates Indigenous resilience and persistence
• Native American routes: the ancient trails hidden in Chicago’s grid system
• “We’re Still Here” : Chicago’s Native American Community
• EarthRights International

Participate:

• Virtual Panel: National Museum of the American Indian: Indigenous Peoples’ Day Panel
• Virtual Celebration: Peabody Essex Museum: Corn Husk Doll Making Demostration
• Virtual Workshop: The Intercultural Center Presents: Indigenous Peoples’ Teach-In Day 2021
• Virtual Discussion: Honoring Indigenous Perspectives: Decolonizing Columbus & Thanksgiving
• Live Concert: IPD Concert CHI 2021
• Virtual Lecture: University of Alaska Fairbanks Presents Keynote Speaker 2021: Dr. Pearl Brower