Fort Lewis College marked Indigenous Peoples with a morning keynote, student reflections, and a march that brought together campus and community members.
This year’s celebration, held on October 12, also included a Sunrise Ceremony and a Social Powwow and Round Dance.
Keynote speaker Allyssa Williams (Diné), a senior designer with DHM Design, and several students who interned in the Indigenous Garden this summer spoke about their experiences and how they strengthened their cultural connections and sense of belonging. For some, the garden helped them feel connected to cultures they had sometimes felt they did not fully belong to.
Students also reflected on the garden’s significance at a college with a history as a federal Indian boarding school. Their remarks connected that history with their own experiences of finding belonging through their work in the garden.
After the presentations, more than 200 campus and community members joined in the Solidarity Walk, which was rerouted this year to go through the Indigenous Garden.
In an email to campus, Chris Nelson, Ph.D., vice president of Diversity Affairs & Special Advisor on Tribal Relations, said Indigenous Peoples’ Day at FLC is both a celebration and an opportunity for reflection and learning. Nelson, Diné/Laguna Pueblo, said Indigenous Peoples’ Day serves as an opportunity “to deepen our understanding of Indigenous histories while recognizing that Indigenous peoples are vibrant contemporary communities whose leadership, knowledge, creativity, and contributions continue to shape every aspect of society.
“The day challenges colonial narratives that position Indigenous peoples solely in the past and instead affirms the enduring presence and sovereignty of Tribal Nations.”
Fort Lewis College formally recognized Indigenous Peoples’ Day in 2015 following action by ASFLC and the FLC Board of Trustees. That commitment helped inspire broader community dialogue, and in 2016, the Durango City Council designated the second Monday of October as Indigenous Peoples’ Day, affirming the importance of honoring Indigenous cultures, traditions, and contributions.