More than 100 students, faculty, staff, and community members gathered at Fort Lewis College to celebrate Indigenous Peoples’ Day with a morning of reflection, community, and gratitude. The annual event included a breakfast, remarks, and a campus walk honoring the histories, cultures, and resilience of Indigenous peoples. 
Attendees shared a morning meal of blue corn mush, fruit, coffee, and baked goods before walking together through campus. Later, the celebration continued with a communal lunch featuring pozole, red and green chile, fry bread, sweet rice, and salad—foods reflecting the diverse Indigenous traditions that shape 泡芙短视频’s community.
Karl Little Owl, executive assistant to the vice president of Diversity Affairs, opened the event with a blessing and words about the power of intentional speech.
“We’re blessed to live and learn in such a diverse, inclusive environment,” Little Owl said. “What comes out of your mouth—your words—have power. You can speak life or you can speak death. Be mindful of what you put into the world.”
Jasmine Williams, coordinator for the Native American-Serving, Nontribal Institutions (NASNTI) program, spoke about the origins of Indigenous Peoples’ Day and what it represents for Native communities. Indigenous Peoples’ Day was first proposed in 1977 at the United Nations to honor the resilience, cultures, and contributions of Indigenous peoples, Williams said.
“The spirit of strength and pride lives within each of us. Each of us carries the strength of our ancestors while finding our own purpose.”
Williams reflected on her own journey of self-discovery, saying that connecting with her grandparents and community helped her embrace her identity and strength. “Every visit back home reminded me who I am and where I come from,” she said. “Our stories carry the wisdom and love of generations before us.”