On Oct. 6, 2023, U.S. President Joe Biden issued a proclamation recognizing Oct. 9, 2023, as Indigenous Peoples' Day.
"Indigenous Peoples' Day finally being recognized nationally is a step in the right direction, but does not complete the work that needs to be done," said Denia Kimana Morris, president of the Native American Students Association at Kent State University. Morris is a senior public health major who works with Kent State's Student Multicultural Center in planning Native American programming and is currently working to get others involved in her organization.
A scene from a Native American gathering, shared by Denia Morris.
"Personally, I feel the importance of observing Indigenous Peoples' Day comes down to individuals finally being seen," she said. "So much of native culture and history has been wiped from the history of the U.S. that I think it's important for this whole community of people to get some recognition."
Morris said that Columbus Day is still widely recognized and there is still active erasure of native culture. "Indigenous Peoples' Day being recognized is a step in the right direction, but does not complete the work that needs to be done," she said.
One of the events at the Student Multicutural Center during Native American Heritage Month 2022
Planning for Native American Heritage Month in November
This is the third year that Morris has worked with the Student Multicultral Center in planning events for Native American Heritage Month. She is activively enagaged with the College of the Arts in creating events throughout November. She said, "My position consists of attending meetings to plan out the theme for the month as well as to learn about upcoming events that will be on the calendar for Native American Heritage Month. I also try to provide a bridge or connection between students and faculty and point them toward the right people if they are interested in getting involved."
Looking Toward the Future
This is Morris' senior year, so she is looking for ways for the Native American Students Association to continue and grow after she leaves campus.
"My plan is to get others involved and have them join the organization so that when I am not here next year, there can not only be a native presence, but somewhat of an executive board, she said. "My hope is for NASA to be a consistent presence on Kent State's campus and to put on its own events."
More information about Native American Heritage Month here.