Indigenous Peoples Day Lawrence, KS

On October 6th, 2015, an estimated 200 activists participated in a peaceful march, spanning three miles from Haskell Cultural Center to City Hall in Lawrence, KS. Indigenous people, representing over 100 tribal nations, some dressed in their traditional regalia, some playing hand drums and singing traditional songs, community supporters, students and more gathered in unity and solidarity, as a proud community of ONE to deliver the following Proclamation:

Proclamation

WHEREAS: the City of Lawrence recognizes that the Indigenous Peoples of the lands that would later become known as the Americas have occupied these lands since time immemorial; and

WHEREAS: the City of Lawrence recognizes that Lawrence is built upon the homelands of the Konza & Osage Indigenous Peoples; and

WHEREAS: Lawrence, KS is home to Haskell Indian Nations University and is attended by Indigenous Peoples of the 48 contiguous states of the US and Alaska; and

WHEREAS: the City of Lawrence values the many contributions made to the Lawrence community through Indigenous Peoples intellectual, spiritual, and the deep cultural contribution that have enhanced the character of the City of Lawrence; and

Whereas: the idea of Indigenous Peoples Day was first proposed in 1977 by a delegation of Native nations to the United Nations and sponsored International Conference on Discrimination Against Indigenous Populations in the Americas; and

[Now, Therefore, Be It Resolved by The City Council that the City of Lawrence shall recognize Indigenous Peoples Day on the second Monday in October, 2015 and every year hereafter.]

[Be It Further Resolved that the City of Lawrence shall continue its efforts to promote the well-being and growth of the Lawrence American Indian and Alaskan Indigenous community,]

[Be It Further Resolved that Indigenous Peoples Day shall be used] to reflect upon the culturally diverse struggles of Indigenous people on this land, and to celebrate the resilient culturally diverse Indigenous traditions and values that guide and shape Haskell Indian Nations University,

[Be it Further resolved, the City of Lawrence encourages other businesses, Indigenous organizations and public entities to recognize Indigenous Peoples Day.]

Unbeknownst to those delivering and supporting the Proclamation, the City Commission edited out the above bracketed sentences. The information that was eliminated is pertinent to the empowerment of our local indigenous peoples; specifically in that our intention is to have this as a day that stands out in time, recognizing an oppressed past and creating a new future built upon community togetherness.