Join the Indigenous Peoples Day Committee in Rochester NY on October 14, 2024 to honor and celebrate Indigenous Peoples and Cultures from all over Turtle Island!

On June 14, 2022, City Council passed and the Mayor signed a Certified Ordinance stating that the City of Rochester shall recognize Indigenous Peoples’ Day on the Second Monday in October, and that Indigenous Peoples’ Day shall replace Columbus Day on all documents and calendars. In celebration of our third year, the Indigenous Peoples’ Day committee has planned a variety of activities that encourage understanding and appreciation of Indigenous Peoples and their traditions and culture all across Turtle Island, thus promoting the well-being and growth of the Rochester Indigenous communities. Indigenous Peoples’ Day gives our greater community an opportunity to reflect upon the ongoing struggles of Indigenous peoples on this land, and to celebrate the thriving culture and value that Onöndowága:’ (Seneca) and other Indigenous nations add to the City of Rochester.

Event Details: October 14, 2024

Sunrise Ceremony 7:00 a.m.

● White Pine Tree of Peace - Northeast side of Cobbs Hill Reservoir near The Grove

● We welcome all to honor Mother Earth with our Thanksgiving Address & Creation story. Join us for a Dedication, Sage Burning Ceremony, and building relationships.

● Participate in a Nature Hike, Tai Chi, or Meditative Walk.

Main Celebration Event 11 a.m. - 5:30 p.m. Genesee Valley Park

● Roundhouse Shelter

● Three Native Dance Groups: 12pm, 2:30, 3:00

● Activities all day: Art & Craft Demonstrations &Vendors, Music, Storytelling, Health Screening, Lacrosse, Nature Exploration, Voter Registration, and More!

● Educational Displays including Wampum Belts and Local History

● Enjoy Guest Speakers and Demonstrations and a day in Nature!

Sunset Ceremony 6:00 p.m.

● Genesee Valley Park – Beside the Genesee RIver

There are many ways to support or get involved!

RSVP: Let us know you’re attending by RSVPing on our Facebook event page: https://www.facebook.com/share/xy3P2C2bWZ9C62KW/

JOIN THE COMMITTEE: If you are interested in joining the Committee, please fill out a Committee Request form: https://www.indigenouspeoplesdayrocny.org/join

VOLUNTEER: If you are interested in volunteering, please email us at indigenouspeoplesdayrocny@gmail.com subject line: Volunteer Request