For one, the holiday comes straight after Thanksgiving, which some Native Americans call the National Day of Mourning for its longstanding connection to colonialism. European settlers killed 56 million indigenous people across South, Central and North America in about 100 years, researchers at the University College London estimate.
Second, the holiday is shared with Black Friday, which some view as celebrating capitalistic greed and gluttony.
In recent years, U.S. presidents have issued proclamations to observe Indigenous Peoples’ Day on Columbus Day, the federal holiday that falls in October and celebrates the voyage of Christopher Columbus.
However, the month of November is still set aside as Native American Heritage Month.
There are no set rules for observing the time, but some Native American groups suggest making space for reflection, recognition and education.
You might start by looking up and formally acknowledging which Indigenous lands you’re living on or visiting, then checking for local events or digging into books and podcasts. Check out this edition of NPR’s Up First newsletter for a handy list of ideas.
4. Learn something new
If the lure of a good deal is too much to give up, consider checking out your public library. As the New York Public Library likes to point out in an annual ad campaign, the inventory is literally free.
And they’re not the only public institution that says brainy is the new black.
NASA uses the day to share fun facts about black holes. Museums across the country offer special events and discounted admission. And, of course, NPR will still be broadcasting.
Find your local radio station or tune into the NPR app to access the latest news and compelling stories — free on Friday, Saturday, Sunday … and every single day of the year.