Dear IAIA Community,

It is with great pride and honor that I announce a new holiday for the Institute of American Indian Arts (IAIA)—Indigenous Peoples’ Day. Starting this year, every second Monday in October will be recognized as a holiday for the IAIA community. This decision, ratified by the IAIA Board of Trustees, reflects our ongoing commitment to honoring the diverse cultures, languages, traditions, and histories of Indigenous Peoples.

At IAIA, we celebrate Indigenous cultures and contributions every day, and this holiday provides a special opportunity to pause and reflect on the extraordinary impact Indigenous communities have had and continue to have on society at large. From art and leadership to language and history, the influence of Indigenous knowledge and creativity is vast and vital.

As we commemorate this first annual Indigenous Peoples’ Day on Monday, October 14, let us come together to honor the richness and resilience of Indigenous cultures—those that shape and inspire our students, alum, faculty, and staff. IAIA is a space where these traditions are rediscovered, explored, and deepened, and we remain dedicated to elevating Indigenous voices and supporting the creative and cultural expression of Indigenous Peoples.

Please take this day to reflect, celebrate, and acknowledge the importance of Indigenous Peoples, whose contributions continue to shape the future.

Sincerely,

Dr. Robert Martin (Cherokee Nation)
IAIA President

2024 IAIA Alum Luncheon group at the IAIA Museum of Contemporary Native Arts (MoCNA)