Minneapolis, St. Paul recognize Monday as Indigenous Peoples’ Day

Monday is Indigenous Peoples’ Day, which celebrates and honors Native American people while commemorating their histories and cultures.

Late last week, President Joe Biden became the first president to mark the day in a proclamation. In it, the president said the United States promised equality and opportunity for everyone and that the promise has not been met, particularly for Indigenous populations.

Biden said he is recommitting his administration to bettering the future for Indigenous communities, focusing on tribal sovereignty and human rights.

In a separate proclamation for Columbus Day, also recognized Monday, the president praised the role of Italian-Americans in the U.S. but also noted the violence and harm caused by Columbus and other explorers of the era.

Meanwhile, in Minnesota, Gov. Tim Walz signed a proclamation, saying the state must reconcile with its history to build a better future for everyone. That history includes European settlers moving onto Native Americans’ land.

Both Minneapolis and St. Paul recognize Monday as Indigenous Peoples’ Day.

The St. Paul City Council approved a resolution last week to recognize that the city is on Dakota land and includes sacred burial mounds.

St. Paul city officials said they are committed to honoring tribal access to events in the city’s parks.

Minneapolis city offices are closed Monday in honor of the day.

Additionally, most banks are closed Monday, as well as all federal offices.

State offices will be open since the day is not an official state holiday.

As for county or city offices, double-check for closures. Minneapolis’ offices are closed and parking meters won’t be enforced around the city Monday.

Street parking is also free Monday in St. Paul.

As for mail delivery, the United States Postal Service is closed Monday. FedEx and UPS are still open.