On the second Monday in October each year we commemorate Indigenous Peoples' Day, a celebration and acknowledgment of Indigenous peoples' histories and cultures. 

We often begin our community events with a land acknowledgement, recognizing the ancestral keepers of the land we gather on and thanking them for their immense contributions to our state and local history, culture, economy, and identity as Washingtonians. We recognize that all of us who live and grow here are honored to reside on historically Indigenous territories.  

Through these words, we recognize the cultures, contributions, and resilience of Indigenous peoples every day, and not only on this important day in October.  

The Y was established to be a light and a welcoming and gathering place, for all residents of the Greater Seattle community and beyond, where everyone is affirmed and belongs. 

During this day, communities across the US celebrate Indigenous Peoples' Day as a cultural reckoning as well. 

In 1992, Berkeley, California instituted the first Indigenous Peoples’ Day, and today many cities and states have adopted the holiday as a more realistic celebration. 

We stand in solidarity and appreciation with Indigenous peoples today, and we remember, honor, and celebrate the original stewards of these lands who have walked before us. The only way forward to the inclusive future we want for our children is together. With our collective energy and commitment, we will create the conditions for all our youth and their families to thrive and develop as changemakers in our communities for generations to come.