Los Angeles County, home to the largest concentration of Indigenous individuals in the United States, is set to honor Indigenous Peoples Day with a variety of engaging events this October. With over 111,000 people identifying as Indigenous, the vibrant communities of the Tongva, Tataviam, Serrano, Kizh, and Chumash tribes will be highlighted in celebrations scheduled on and around Indigenous Peoples Day, observed on the second Monday of October, this year falling on October 13.
The observance of Indigenous Peoples Day in Los Angeles formally began in 2018, following the decision by the City Council and L.A. County Board of Supervisors to replace Columbus Day. The initiative to recognize this holiday was championed by Supervisor Hilda Solis, who emphasized the importance of acknowledging the oppression faced by Indigenous peoples throughout history. “This is about understanding that for centuries, America’s ancestors oppressed certain groups of people,” said Solis. “And while we can’t change the past, we can acknowledge and make that history right today.”
A range of events will take place as part of the celebrations, focusing on education and cultural acknowledgment. These gatherings coincide with a month-long celebration in honor of Indigenous communities across the region.
One such event is the Tuxuunga Indigenous Peoples Day, hosted by ST Forward, a community organization dedicated to fostering civic engagement and anti-racism. Scheduled for October 12 from 11:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. at 12400 Big Tujunga Canyon Road, the free event will celebrate the Sacred Elements—water, air, earth, and fire. Attendees of all ages can look forward to music, art, and culinary experiences provided by Indigenous artisans.
Additionally, the Getty Center is set to host its fourth family celebration of Indigenous Peoples Day on October 11, from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. This year’s theme revolves around libraries and storytelling, showcasing activities that share both traditional and contemporary Indigenous narratives. Highlights include performances of music, comedy, dance, and poetry by Indigenous artists, along with creative workshops such as zine-making and collage creation. A special feature of the day will be Drag Story Time in the garden, led by Bohenne Arreaux and Johnny Gentleman.
At the San Dimas Canyon Nature Center, two family-friendly events will take place on October 15 and October 17, both free of charge. The first event, running from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. on the 15th, will include a local tribal history lesson followed by a Native seed planting activity in collaboration with the Gabrieleño San Gabriel Band of Mission Indians. The second event on the 17th will host a similar lesson followed by a necklace-making workshop.
The Indigenous Fashion Collective, which seeks to promote cultural integrity within the fashion industry, is organizing three events on October 11 at the Autry Museum of the American West. The first, a free community shopping event from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., will feature clothing, accessories, and art from Indigenous designers. Panel discussions with community leaders and artists will also take place. Later that evening, at 6 p.m., a paid fashion gala will commence, with a follow-up post-gala celebration at 10 p.m.
Indigenous Pride L.A. will observe the holiday with modifications this year due to recent events, including ongoing ICE raids in the area. In place of their larger festivities, the organization plans a smaller, private “Community Gathering” for Two-Spirit, Indigiqueer, and Indigenous LGBTQPAI+ individuals on October 18. This gathering will provide an opportunity for community networking, discussions about current issues, and a chance to enjoy a free meal.
Cal State L.A. will also participate in the celebrations with an event on October 13, from noon to 2 p.m. at the University-Student Union Plaza. This gathering will celebrate Indigenous identity through performances, art workshops, educational video presentations, and tabling by various student and community organizations, promoting awareness and appreciation of Indigenous cultures.
The planned events throughout the month promise to provide meaningful connections to the rich history and culture of Indigenous peoples in Los Angeles County. As Angelenos gather to celebrate and honor the contributions of Indigenous communities, the emphasis will remain on education and recognition of historical injustices, paving the way for a better understanding and respect for the Indigenous peoples who have long called this land home.
image source from：latimes
