“A chance for love draws near; We have nothing left to fear; All our colors paint the world”
In October 1992, the Bay Area Indian Alliance presented the Berkeley City Council with a proposal to designate Columbus Day as a “Day of Solidarity with Indigenous Peoples,” effectively reclassifying the observance as “Indigenous Peoples’ Day.” For many Indigenous communities across Turtle Island and around the world, Columbus Day has historically served as a day of mourning.
On the weekend of October 10, 1992, Eagle Thunder Records recording artist Robby Romero performed at the “All Our Colors” concert, presented by Bill Graham Presents. The event, a weekend-long celebration of Indigenous culture and music, took place at the Shoreline Amphitheatre in Mountain View, California. Romero, accompanied by his mother and prominent Indigenous leaders such as Dennis Banks and Oren Lyons, highlighted the art of Indigenous resistance and resilience. The musical program included Native drum groups and dance troupes, with performances by mainstream artists such as Carlos Santana, Bonnie Raitt, John Lee Hooker, Steve Miller, and many others.
Today, there are numerous Indigenous Peoples’ Day events and celebrations held across Indian Country. If you’re here or near the Land of Enchantment, check out Indigenous Peoples’ Day at the Indian Pueblo Cultural Center. For more happenings this year on Indigenous Peoples’ Day, click here: Native News Online.