TULSA — Native American pride was on full display in Tulsa Monday with the 3rd annual Tulsa Native American Day. While many recognize the second Monday in October as Columbus Day, a growing movement is calling it Indigenous Peoples Day.
“Over 500 different tribes inhabited North America prior to Columbus," said Robert Anquoe, chairman of the Greater Tulsa Indian Affairs Commission. "And so, actually, Columbus didn’t really discover America. He was just an explorer that just got lost at sea.”
There was a parade, singers and booths of a variety of things, including Native American art. The event brought tribes from all across the region together.
“It’s just a celebration of our tradition and culture and try to bring that education and awareness about native people, culture and tradition," Anquoe said.
The Tulsa Indian Affairs Commission says nearly 40 Native American tribes call Oklahoma their home. Indigenous Peoples Day is a chance to teach the next generation about the Native American culture.
“It means a lot to me as a young person because, I’m 19 years old, and even growing up through elementary school, middle school, high school, I feel like a lot of these things weren’t recognized, especially in school," said Jasmine Phetsacksith, Tulsa Pow Wow Princess. "So I feel like if it became a national holiday, then it’s something that would be recognized worldwide, not just in the nation, too.”
Event organizers also said they are thankful for the city of Tulsa recognizing Native American Day today.
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