A Conversation on Indigenous Peoples Day with Charles Black Lance

Many U.S. states, including Minnesota (via proclamation), focus on Indigenous Peoples Day on the second Monday of October in place of what was historically Columbus Day. I sat down with Charles Black Lance, an educator and community leader in Brainerd, Minn., for some insights on this holiday.  

Why the change?  

• Not necessarily anti-Columbus, but we need to enhance the whole conversation by honoring and respecting histories and traditions of Indigenous people that were here long before Columbus and are still here today. 
• When traditionally celebrating Columbus Day, we don’t always include the deeper realities of what his coming to North American meant for Indigenous people. 
• When we clean up histories for children, we lose context that help us understand why and how. 

What should stop? 

• Stereotypical representations or caricatures of Indigenous people.  
• Placing Native people only in the past. 
• Honoring nostalgia for some, over harmful experiences for others. 

What should I do? 

• Look harder, adjust your lens. 
• Educate yourself with books, documentaries, and podcasts.  
• Critically consume information. 
• Do something with your learning. Speak up, take action, and positively influence those around you. 
• Ask! Conduct internet searches, consult media specialists or curriculum directors.  
• Listen and learn from people that are experiencing “it” for example, your local American Indian Advisory committee.  

Resources  

• Native American Indigenous Games 2023 naig.com 
• An Indigenous Peoples’ History of the United States for Young People (ReVisioning History for Young People) by Roxanne Dunbar-Ortiz  
• Minnesota Department of Education Resources 
•  American Indian Library Association  

Find more educational resources by topic at https://www.mn.sourcewell.org/education/podcast

Learn more about upcoming trainings and events for educators at www.mn.sourcewell.org/education