Title
Special Recognition - Proclamation Recognizing Indigenous Peoples’ Day
Recommended Action
Committee Recommendation:
Not referred to a committee.
City Manager Recommendation:
Proclaim October 14, 2024 as Indigenous Peoples’ Day in the City of Olympia.
Report
Issue:
Whether to proclaim October 14, 2024 as Indigenous Peoples’ Day in the City of Olympia.
Staff Contact:
Olivia Salazar de Breaux, Equity, Inclusion and Belonging Specialist, Olympia Parks, Arts and Recreation Department, 360.753.8343.
Presenter(s):
Kristopher Klabsch Peters, Tribal Council Chairman, Squaxin Island Tribe
Squaxin Island Tribal Council representatives
Background and Analysis:
Indigenous Peoples’ Day was first proposed in 1977 by a delegation of Native Nations to the United Nations sponsored International Conference on the Discrimination Against Indigenous Populations in the Americas. It is a day to recognize and celebrate Indigenous heritage, culture, and history while honoring past, current and future generations. The City of Olympia urges all residents to become more aware of the significance of this celebration and its role in the heritage of our nation and City.
The Squaxin Island Tribe’s habitation of what is now Olympia spans thousands of years. The ancestral families who lived and thrived here named it Steh-Chass and occupied prosperous villages along the shores. Today, the Squaxin people continue stewardship of these ancestral lands, from the Deschutes watershed and what is now Budd Inlet. The Squaxin Island Tribe and City of Olympia honor the Medicine Creek Treaty and have established a strong government-to-government relationship between the two sovereigns.
On October 7, 2021, the City of Olympia re-signed and re-affirmed their Accord with the Squaxin Island Tribe in the spirit of understanding and mutual respect, and committed to the following long term-actions:
• Coordinate and cooperate to support economic and infrastructure opportunities, protect natural resources, and respond to climate change;
• Create more opportunities for public art, education, and community service that will promote a healthy exchange of cultures;
• Establish an intergovernmental work group between the two Councils to advance these commitments and develop consultation protocol, a strategic plan, and enduring channels of communication;
• Conduct biannual meetings of the Squaxin Island Tribal Council and the Olympia City Council in the Spring and Fall to maintain a shared vision, address issues of mutual concern, develop strategies and agreements, and overcome obstacles;
• Renew this Accord every five years to celebrate our achievements, evaluate our processes, and update our priorities and actions.
Squaxin Island Tribe and The City of Olympia are co-hosting a community celebration for Indigenous Peoples’ Day on Monday, October 14, 2024 from 11:30 am to 2:30 pm at Squaxin Park in Olympia. All are welcomed to enjoy the festivities.
Climate Analysis:
This recognition raises awareness about the importance of protecting natural resources and responding to climate change.
Equity Analysis:
This recognition raises awareness about the contributions and achievements made by generations of Indigenous people here in the Pacific Northwest and across the nation. This recognition benefits Olympia residents as well as those in neighboring communities by increasing a sense of belonging and inclusion.
Attachments:
Proclamation