NEWTON, MASS. (WHDH) - Celebrations for Indigenous people’s Day took place in several Mass. communities Monday.
Newton had voted Indigenous People’s Day to be an official holiday in 2020. Their annual event honors Indigenous people with dancing and music. The event featured various Indigenous artists, vendors and speakers.
Organizers said it’s a way to honor the legacy of the people who settled this land.
“It gives me great pleasure to know that the land we walk on today was once walked on many years ago by my ancestors,” Liz Coldwind Santana-Kiser said. “They are the ones that created many routes, trails and pathways throughout this area, and many of these trails can still be found today.”
Brookline and Winchester also had gatherings today for people to celebrate Indigenous heritage, with Brookline offering crafts and food, and Winchester celebrating “by highlighting the historical accomplishments and innovation of Indigenous people”, according to their event page.
Winchester’s event offered a tour of the Wright-Locke farm, planting activities, and opportunities to learn about Indigenous issues as well as pending state legislation. Brookline also offered legislative information.
“This event serves as a great way to celebrate indigenous people while learning about the culture, history and diversity of indigenous people in our state and throughout the nation,” Brookline Town Administrator Chas Carey said in a statement on the event page. “We look forward to commemorating Indigenous Peoples Day and reflecting on its meaning.”
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