Expressing support for the designation of the second Monday in October 2025 as "Indigenous Peoples' Day" to celebrate and honor Indigenous Peoples and their shared history and culture.
- Bill Number
- H.Res. 809
- Origin Chamber
- House
- Congress
- 119th Congress, Session 1
- Policy Area
- Native Americans
- Status
- Introduced
- Latest Action
- 2025-10-14: Referred to the House Committee on Natural Resources.
- Last Updated
- 2025-12-11T16:57:57Z
AI-Generated Summary
Purpose
This House Resolution (H. Res. 809) expresses support for designating the second Monday in October 2025—October 13—as "Indigenous Peoples' Day." The goal is to celebrate and honor the history, culture, and contributions of Indigenous Peoples in the United States, while acknowledging the impacts of Western contact on their communities.
Key Provisions
- Background Context (Whereas Clauses):
- Notes that over 200 municipalities and 17 states already observe "Indigenous Peoples' Day" on the second Monday in October.
- Recognizes Columbus Day as a federal holiday since 1937, observed by some cities and states on the same date, but argues it does not adequately reflect Indigenous stories and resilience.
- Highlights that Indigenous Peoples thrived in what is now the U.S. for thousands of years before Western contact, which led to suppression, forced assimilation, and genocide of their cultures.
- Affirms the House's appreciation for Indigenous contributions in knowledge, science, philosophy, arts, and culture, and its duty to honor their history and traditions.
- Suggests the second Monday in October as a fitting date for this observance.
- Resolved Actions:
- Honors the unique contributions of Indigenous Peoples to the United States.
- Encourages U.S. citizens to observe "Indigenous Peoples' Day" through ceremonies and activities that promote awareness of Indigenous history and culture.
- Supports making "Indigenous Peoples' Day" a federal holiday.
Significant Changes to Existing Law
This is a non-binding resolution, so it introduces no legal changes. Columbus Day remains a federal holiday under existing law (established in 1937). The resolution does not repeal or amend any statutes; it only expresses congressional support for a symbolic designation.
Potential Impacts
- On Government Agencies: Minimal direct impact, as it is not enforceable. Federal agencies might be encouraged to promote awareness through educational or cultural programs, but no mandates are created.
- On Citizens: Could increase public awareness and participation in Indigenous-focused events, fostering cultural education and reflection on U.S. history. It may inspire more local observances without requiring time off work.
- On International Relations: No notable effects, as the resolution focuses on domestic history and recognition.
Main Stakeholders Affected
- Indigenous Peoples and Communities: Primary beneficiaries, gaining formal congressional acknowledgment of their history, resilience, and contributions.
- U.S. Citizens and Educators: Encouraged to engage in awareness activities, potentially shifting public focus from Columbus Day.
- State and Local Governments: Those already observing Indigenous Peoples' Day (17 states and 200+ municipalities) may see reinforced support; others might consider adoption.
- House of Representatives: Takes a symbolic stance on cultural recognition.
Notable Legal, Constitutional, or Political Implications
- Legal: As a simple resolution, it has no force of law and requires no presidential approval. It does not conflict with the federal holiday status of Columbus Day.
- Constitutional: Aligns with Congress's broad authority to express views on national matters (under Article I), with no First Amendment or other constitutional issues raised.
- Political: Represents a bipartisan effort (introduced by representatives from both parties) to promote inclusive historical narratives. It could influence future legislation on federal holidays or cultural recognitions, highlighting ongoing debates about balancing European exploration history with Indigenous perspectives, but remains symbolic without binding obligations.
This summary was generated by AI and may contain inaccuracies. Refer to the official source document for the authoritative text.
Sponsor
Rep. Torres, Norma J. [D-CA-35]
Cosponsors (22)
Rep. Cole, Tom [R-OK-4], Rep. Davids, Sharice [D-KS-3], Del. King-Hinds, Kimberlyn [R-MP-At Large], Rep. Bonamici, Suzanne [D-OR-1], Rep. Titus, Dina [D-NV-1], Rep. Simon, Lateefah [D-CA-12], Rep. DelBene, Suzan K. [D-WA-1], Rep. Watson Coleman, Bonnie [D-NJ-12], Rep. McClellan, Jennifer L. [D-VA-4], Rep. Thompson, Bennie G. [D-MS-2], Rep. Moore, Gwen [D-WI-4], Del. Norton, Eleanor Holmes [D-DC-At Large], Rep. Garamendi, John [D-CA-8], Rep. Barragán, Nanette Diaz [D-CA-44], Rep. McBride, Sarah [D-DE-At Large], Rep. Pocan, Mark [D-WI-2], Rep. Lynch, Stephen F. [D-MA-8], Rep. Carson, André [D-IN-7], Rep. Brown, Shontel M. [D-OH-11], Rep. Pingree, Chellie [D-ME-1], Rep. Evans, Dwight [D-PA-3], Rep. Tokuda, Jill N. [D-HI-2]
Recent Actions
- 2025-10-14: Referred to the House Committee on Natural Resources.
- 2025-10-14: Submitted in House
- 2025-10-14: Submitted in House
Bill Versions
- Expressing support for the designation of the second Monday in October 2025 as "Indigenous Peoples’ Day" to celebrate and honor Indigenous Peoples and their shared history and culture. — issued 2025-10-14 — PDF (3 pages)