Join the Squaxin Island Tribe and the City of Olympia to celebrate Indigenous culture, history, and communities from 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. on Monday, Oct. 10, 2022. The event will be held at the newly renamed Squaxin Park, 2600 East Bay Drive NE.
“It’s fitting that this year’s celebration will be held at Squaxin Park,” said Olympia Mayor Cheryl Selby. “The renaming of the former Priest Point Park and this Indigenous Peoples’ Day celebration are exciting steps in the fulfillment of the City’s accord and commitment with the Squaxin Island Tribe to promote a healthy exchange of cultures.”
Indigenous Peoples’ Day is a holiday that celebrates and honors Native American peoples and commemorates their histories and cultures. On Tuesday, October 4, the Olympia City Council will be joined by Squaxin Island Tribal Chairman Kris Peters in consideration of a proclamation to recognize the October 10, 2022 holiday.
“This is a powerful and healing day for the Squaxin People. Together we reflect on our rich history, while recognizing the resilience of our people through colonization and assimilation as well as celebrating our strength through self-determination and a strong culture,“ said Peters. “We are honored to celebrate this year’s Indigenous Peoples Day at Squaxin Park and to share this celebration with the local community. This is a testament to the great partnerships that have been created between the City, the local community, and the Squaxin People.”
Parking at Squaxin Park is limited. Attendees are encouraged to carpool, take an Intercity Transit bus, or use a complimentary event shuttle service at the east side of the Olympia Farmer’s Market District parking lot using the identified shuttle parking spaces. The shuttle will run every half hour starting at 11 a.m., with the last shuttle pickup at 2 p.m. Call 360.753.8343 for shuttle details.
Squaxin Park is the new name for the formerly named Priest Point Park. The new name serves to remind the community that this area was home to the Squaxin Island Tribe people for thousands of years before non-tribal residents came to the area. The park is cherished by the Squaxin Island Tribe and Olympia community for its beautiful and restorative natural landscape and amenities.
Indigenous Peoples’ Day celebration attendees can look forward to cultural performances, speakers and educational activities. Families are welcome. For information on future events like this, sign up to receive City of Olympia Diversity, Equity and Inclusion e-newsnotices.
Contact
Olivia Salazar de Breaux, Equity, Inclusion and Belonging Specialist
Parts, Arts and Recreation
360.753.8343
osalazar@ci.olympia.wa.us
Make No Bones About It 