"In 2016, Durango City Council declared this day “Indigenous Peoples Day”; a day to reflect upon a more accurate history of the United States and local land acknowledgment histories. As the Chairman of Durango 9-R’s School district's NAPAC, our organization acknowledges that Durango and the surrounding area were originally occupied and shared by Indigenous relatives including the Ute, Diné, Pueblo, Apache, Shoshone, Cheyenne, Arapahoe, and Comanche. This day is to also acknowledge our ancestors from all indigenous people around the globe. NAPAC’s goal is to serve the basic academic and cultural needs of the Native American students in the Durango School District 9-R through the Title VI Federal program. It is our committee’s responsibility to make sure that this goal is accomplished through high quality elementary and secondary educational programs."
Let's utilize the upcoming week to bring awareness to the history and culture of Native Americans who are indigenous to these lands. Take time to learn and share with students the importance of this day, perhaps using the Smithsonian National Museum of the American Indian's five ideas for celebrating Indigenous Peoples' Day in 2020. In our 9-R schools and classrooms, please recognize any and all Natives Americans every day and especially on October 12, 2020.