On Monday, October 13, the Oakland Unified School District (OUSD) will observe Indigenous Peoples’ Day as a district holiday. The day is recognized across the country to honor the resilience, contributions, and cultural heritage of Native peoples. The holiday was first celebrated in the East Bay in 1992 as an alternative to Columbus Day, aiming to acknowledge Indigenous communities and historical injustices.
The Bay Area is home to about 18,500 Indigenous people, including the Ohlone—who have lived in the region for thousands of years and remain its most prominent Indigenous group. Despite colonization’s impact, Ohlone and other Native communities continue efforts to preserve their traditions and advocate for land rights. OUSD schools are located on Ohlone territory, which includes Oakland, Alameda, Albany, Berkeley, Emeryville, and Piedmont.
In California during the 2024-25 school year, nearly 25,000 Native students were enrolled among 5.8 million public school students. Many Latino and African American students also have Indigenous ancestry. Within OUSD itself, more than 700 Indigenous students are supported through programs such as the Title VI Native American Education Program.
“We strive to ensure that our curriculum reflects accurate histories and the diverse voices of Native communities,” according to district officials.
Local events marking Indigenous Peoples’ Day include:
– The 33rd Annual Berkeley Indigenous Peoples Day PowWow & Indian Market takes place Saturday, October 11 from 10 AM to 6 PM at MLK Civic Center Park in Berkeley.
– A blessing and mural unveiling will be held at Hintil Ku’u Ča Child Development Center on Monday, October 13 from 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM at Carl B. Munck Elementary School (11850 Campus Drive). This potluck-style community gathering will feature art and food.
– The Indigenous Peoples’ Day Sunrise Gathering at Alcatraz is organized by the International Indian Treaty Council in commemoration of the occupation of Alcatraz by Indians of All Tribes from 1969-71.
Looking ahead, OUSD will continue its recognition next month when November is officially observed as Indigenous Peoples’ Heritage Month throughout the district following a Board of Education resolution passed in 2020.
“We wish everyone a restful holiday on Monday and look forward to seeing you back in school on Tuesday,” said district representatives.
