Columbus Day and Indigenous Peoples Day: A Cultural Reflection

The United States has chosen the second Monday of October to observe two pieces of history and culture in North America.

The date recognizes the historical day that Christopher Columbus arrived in the Americas, sparking further European exploration and colonization. The annual October Columbus Day Parade in New York City is a vibrant tribute to Italian American culture and heritage.

On the same day, many communities will observe Indigenous Peoples Day. In Oklahoma City, First Americans Museum (FAM) observes Indigenous Peoples Day, one of FAM’s largest annual community celebrations. Each year, nearly 3,000 guests gather on the museum campus to celebrate Indigenous cultures, traditions, and communities.

This year’s theme, Sovereignty in Motion, celebrates the many ways Indigenous people keep culture moving forward through creativity, movement, storytelling, humor, and community.

I’m sharing a post from my archives about Watercress use in Native American Culture. This blog isn’t about watercress, but the name fit (my original family name Cress) and this blog’s theme of wellness. You’ll learn more in this post.

The Rich History of Watercress in Native American Culture

Exploring the HEART of Health

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Dr. Aletha

Author: Aletha Cress Oglesby, M.D.

As a family physician, I explore the HEART of HEALTH in my work, recreation, community, and through writing. My blog, Watercress Words, informs and inspires us to live in health. I believe we can turn our health challenges into healthy opportunities. When we do, we can share the HEART of health with our families, communities, and the world. Come explore and share with me. View all posts by Aletha Cress Oglesby, M.D.