American Indian Citizenship Day is observed annually on the second Saturday of June. The American Indian Citizenship Day is the birthday of American Indians. American Indians are indigenous people who still maintain their customs and culture although they have been incorporated into mainstream society. American Indian History shows that there have been several major American Indian movements such as; Six Nations, Cheyenne River Indians, Arapahoe River Indians, and Crazy Creek, Hualapai, Lakota, and Chickasaw Indians.
American Indian History dates back hundreds of years. Some of the key American Indian figures like; Sitting Bull, Sitting Dancer, Crazy Horse, and many others have become national celebrities overnight. American Indian History has featured many famous Indian tribes and heroes. American Indian history has been featured in Hollywood movies such as: The Legend ofipper, Grease, A Christmas Story, and It’s a Wonderful Life.
This year, American Indian Nationality Day will be celebrated in many different ways. Many communities are planning parades, ceremonies, and cultural programs for this very special day. Philadelphia, Pennsylvania is holding their national chocolate cake festival. Many cities around the United States are celebrating American Indian Nationality Day with parades, special classes, and cultural programs.
American Indian Nationality Day was made popular in the United States by the creation of the American Indian Policy, which outlines in detail how and why it is celebrated. “American Indian Nationality Day is widely recognized for its symbolism of cultural, historical, spiritual, and geographic uniqueness among American Indians,” according to the American Indian Policy. The Policy recognizes that American Indians have been subject to far more mistreatment and disregard than most other people throughout history. “The historical, spiritual, cultural, and physical uniqueness of American Indian tribes is recognized and commemorated on this day,” according to the American Indian Policy. “This day serves as a reminder of the continuing struggles of indigenous peoples for self-determination and self-preservation.” American Indian Nationality Day is also celebrated with various tribal festivals and ceremonies around the country.
Although not all native Americans are in favor of celebrating American Indian Nationality Day, others believe that it is a necessary step in teaching children about the American Indian culture. “I think that every kid should know that the first day of the week in America is American Indian Day, and it should be celebrated with children and adults alike,” said Gregerson. “I believe it’s an excellent way to educate kids about the importance and impact of the American Indian culture and their right to preserve it.” The Philadelphia school system, the city of Brother Martin (Va.) Institute of Music, and the City of Brother Martin (Va.) also recognize the historical significance of the event.
American Indian Citizenship Day is also observed in connection with the 50th anniversary of the historic Gold Rush and the Centennial commemoration of the Great Depression. The agricultural-oriented Kalahari Desert Native American Labor Day is scheduled for later in April. “I am very happy that today we can observe the existence of American Indian tribes such as the Sioux, Arapahoe, Lakota, Cheyenne, Arowana, Hopi, Cheyenne, and redskin,” declared Navajo Nation President Donalyn Radera. “We will always stand by our great American Indian tribes. Our heritage is our nation’s future.”
