Indigenous people march on Oct. 10, 2020, in Boston in part of a demonstration to change Columbus Day to Indigenous Peoples’ Day. Native American casinos are open today. (Image: Getty)<\/figcaption><\/figure>\nIndigenous Peoples’ Day is a day to recognize the contributions made by indigenous people to the nation, and the resiliency of Indigenous peoples. The day also honors their inherent sovereignty and reestablishes the federal government’s trust and treaty obligations to federally recognized tribal nations.<\/p>\n
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Columbus Day, in the political arena, has become controversial in recent memory. During his 2021 speech announcing the formation of Indigenous Peoples’ Day, Biden said the US must “acknowledge the painful history of wrongs and atrocities that many European explorers inflicted on tribal nations and Indigenous communities.”<\/p>\n<\/div>\n
Now, with Indigineous People’s Day in its second year, the majority of tribal nations have opted not to celebrate. Instead, they will reflect on and respect the past suffering of their ancestors. And while federal workers and many bankers are off today, tribal casino employees are largely on the job, as Native American resorts remain open for business.<\/p>\n
Little Hype<\/b><\/h2>\n
Tribal casinos aren’t using Indigenous Peoples’ Day as a marketing tool to bring in patrons. A search online found only a few related promotions.<\/p>\n
The Spokane Tribe Casino in Airway Heights, Washington, has invited tribal elders to dine at the casino for free anytime today through October 14. Each Spokane tribal elder can bring one guest to indulge in a three-course meal at the Three Peaks Kitchen and Bar free of charge. The promotion also includes $25 in free slot play.<\/p>\n