West Orange To Recognize Indigenous Peoples' Day, Mayor Proclaims

WEST ORANGE, NJ — Indigenous Peoples' Day is now officially enshrined in West Orange.

On Monday, Mayor Robert Parisi proclaimed that the second Monday of October will celebrate Indigenous Peoples' Day in the township of West Orange, a tribute to the nationally observed holiday.

Indigenous Peoples' Day – which was recognized by President Joe Biden this year – is a day to honor Native Americans and their contributions to U.S. society. It takes place on the second Monday of October, the same day as Columbus Day.

“Every day, we’re surrounded with reminders of our nation’s Native American ancestors,” Parisi said in a video on Monday, pointing out the town’s own historic links to the Lenape (watch below).

The full proclamation reads:

“In the spirit of reconciliation, I encourage all citizens of the township of West Orange today to take time today to celebrate Indigenous peoples of our region, including the Nanticoke Lenni-Lenape Nation the Powhatan Renape Nation the Ramapough Lenape Nation and the Raritan Nation, to name a few.

“Since their first contact with Europeans, peoples indigenous to New Jersey found their lives and lands relegated to the despoiling and dehumanizing forces of oppression, violence and discrimination.

“From colonial expansion to systemic modern marginalization, we recognize that our Indigenous people have too often been denied practical access to the resources and benefits of our society. In recognition of that stark history, I call upon all of us to reassess geographic place names, statues and monuments to fully reflect our state's inclusive values; to research and formally recognize ancestral connections to public and private lands throughout our region; to embark upon the difficult journey of truth seeking, in hope of finding healing and reconciliation together; and to squarely face the complete history of our indigenous peoples and recognize the impact that our nation's history has had upon their cultures and lives.

“I call upon our educators, parents, elected officials and community leaders to incorporate knowledge of and respect for our Indigenous peoples in our schools, hearts and commemorations.

“I call upon the state of New Jersey to take action to convey ancestral lands back to tribes for preservation of cultural resources.

“Therefore be it proclaimed that henceforth, the second Monday of October shall forever be known as Indigenous Peoples' Day in the Township of West Orange.”

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