Olympia designates Oct. 12 as Indigenous Peoples Day 

In recognition of a longstanding relationship with the Squaxin Island Tribe, the Olympia City Council endorsed a proclamation designating Oct. 12 as Indigenous Peoples Day.  

The proclamation recognizes the history, culture and continuing contributions of Indigenous people in Olympia.  

It also acknowledges the Steh-Chass people of the Squaxin Island Tribe for continuing to steward their ancestral lands and waters, including Deschutes watershed and Budd Inlet.  

The proclamation also recognizes the contributions of Squaxin Island Tribe, Nisqually, Pullyup, Chehales, Suquamish, Duwamish and other Indigenous nations to Olympia.  

As part of the observance, Olympia and Squaxin Island Tribe will host a free Indigenous Peoples Day celebration on at Squaxin Park on Oct. 12.

The event runs from 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m., and feature tribal members dancing, singing, speaking, and sharing stories.  

Olivia Salazar de Breaux, the City of Olympia Cultural and Belonging Manager, said the program is centered on the Squaxin Island Tribe and its members.  

The celebration is intended to provide an opportunity for individuals to learn more about Indigenous history, while recognizing the relationship between Olympia and Squaxin Island Tribe.  

Salazar de Breaux also announced the city will provide a complimentary shuttle every 30 minutes beginning at 11 a.m. from the Olympia Farmers Market parking. She encouraged attendees to consider public transportation, walking, biking, or carpooling because parking at Squaxin Park is limited.