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Indigenous Peoples Day activities

Indigenous Peoples Day It created as a state holiday through legislation signed into law in 2017 by former Governor Walker, in a ceremony held during Utqiaġvik’s annual Nalukataq whaling festival. For many, it replaces Columbus Day, and is viewed as a small step out of colonialism of American and Alaskan history. 
There are several commemorations and activities in the Interior.

The University of Alaska Fairbanks will celebrate 2022 Indigenous Peoples’ Day with several events and activities across its different colleges, campuses, and departments.

Indigenous Peoples' Day honors Alaska Native people, culture and knowledge. The unanimous support for this special day acknowledges how the contributions of Alaska Native peoples and Indigenous knowledge enhance the education provided by the University of Alaska. Indigenous Peoples' Day will be recognized on Monday, Oct. 10, 2022. Please join us for the following celebrations (events are on Oct. 10 unless otherwise noted):

  • The UAF Kuskokwim Campus in Bethel will celebrate Indigenous Peoples’ Day with a community celebration, “Kayungcallerkaanek Qaneryaramta”, from noon-8 p.m. at the Yupiit Piciyarait Cultural Center. Festivities will include an Indigenous Peoples' Day March, a Native Foods Potluck, Yuraq performances, and more. For more information, visit the event Facebook page.
  • The UAF Northwest Campus in Nome will host its annual Indigenous Peoples’ Day Film Festival. For more information, visit the Northwest Campus Facebook page
  • The UAF Festival of Native Arts will host their annual Fry Bread Taco Fundraiser from noon-2 p.m. in the Brooks Building on the Troth Yeddha' Campus. 
  • The UAF Alaska Native Language Center will premiere a new film, Awake, followed by a short discussion via Zoom from 11a.m.-noon. Please register for the Zoom link in advance. 
  • Nanook Diversity and Action Center is hosting a workshop on how to make beaded sun catchers with Laura Ekada from 5-7 p.m. in the Brooks Building Gathering Room. All the materials will be provided. The first 15 people to fill out this form can attend the workshop. If you are unable to make it, please let us know so that another person can take your place.
  • The College of Rural and Community Development will host the annual “Rock your Moccs” week from Oct. 10-14. Please take a photo of your moccasins and tag @uafcrcd to have your photo featured on social media.
  • The College of Rural and Community Development is also hosting weekly “Kuspuk Wednesdays” for the month of October. Wear your kuspuks on Wednesday and tag @uafcrcd to have your photo featured on social media.
  • CRCD is hosting a monthly speaker series during the 2022-2023 academic year highlighting its research. The next presentation in the series will feature Tribal Governance faculty member Michelle Demmert presenting on the impacts of the Violence Against Women Act in Alaska on Wednesday, Oct. 12 from noon-1 p.m. Register for the Zoom link here.