Indigenous Peoples’ Day just around the corner, and New Mexico is preparing the events and activities to mark the occasion. Will you join the celebrations this Monday?
“I think it’s important to acknowledge and honor the identity of Native people throughout our country and our state in particular,” Indian Affairs Secretary Josett Monette said in a statement. “And really respecting Tribal sovereignty and recognizing that Indigenous people in New Mexico bring a wealth of contributions to our state.”
The Native Art Market is welcoming visitors for its soft opening as Santa Fe hosts a lineup of events. Co-founder Heather Tracy said maintaining a presence in New Mexico is important to the organization.
Tracy said Native arts and crafts generate billions of dollars, yet Native Americans see less than one percent of that revenue
“Our whole mission is just to create safe spaces for Natives to sell directly to the public,” Tracy said. “We feature over 200 Native artisans and they receive direct deposits for their purchases.”
Santa Fe will close out its weekend lineup on Monday with the fourth annual Native Nations Powwow at Santa Fe Plaza.
Meanwhile, in Albuquerque, the Indian Pueblo Cultural Center and Avanyu Plaza will offer a full day of activities on Monday. From 11 a.m. to 7 p.m., you can enjoy dance performances, face painting, and more.
The Native Collective Leadership of Albuquerque will hold a community celebration at Tiguex Park from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Former NMSU and Kentucky football standout Shiyazh Pete is also scheduled to attend.
“I hope that we continue to set the standard as we have throughout the country,” Monette said. “It’s important to work together and in partnership for the betterment of the entire state.”
