Virginia is the newest state to choose to observe Indigenous Peoples' Day instead of Columbus Day.
Governor Ralph Northam announced on Friday that Oct. 12 will now be observed as Indigenous Peoples' Day in Virginia this year.
For the first time in Virginia history, we are recognizing Indigenous Peoplesโ Day in our Commonwealthโthis year on Monday, October 12.
Northam said that Indigenous Peoples' Day celebrates the resilience of Virginiaโs tribal communities and promotes reconciliation, healing and continued friendships with Virginiaโs Indian tribes.
Virginia is home to 11 state-recognized Indian tribes, including the Cheroenhaka (Nottoway) Indian Tribe, Chickahominy Indian Tribe, Chickahominy Indians Eastern Division, Mattaponi Indian Tribe, Monacan Indian Nation, Nansemond Indian Tribe, Nottoway Indian Tribe of Virginia, Pamunkey Indian Tribe, Patawomeck Indian Tribe of Virginia, Rappahannock Tribe and the Upper Mattaponi Indian Tribe.