Montgomery County began officially recognizing Indigenous Peoples’ Day in 2020, replacing Columbus Day as the observance on the second Monday in October. The decision aligned the County with several other jurisdictions across the region, including Rockville, Takoma Park, Washington, D.C., and Prince George’s County, as well as multiple states that have adopted similar changes.
According to County Executive Marc Elrich in 2020, the change was part of an effort to broaden public understanding of American history and to acknowledge the cultures and histories of Native peoples. “This country was not ‘discovered’ by Christopher Columbus; it was already occupied by people with a rich collection of knowledge, stories, and practices,” Elrich said when the proclamation was introduced. “Observing Indigenous Peoples’ Day recognizes the original occupants of these lands, their cultures, and the sacrifices they were forced to make.”
Former Councilmember Nancy Navarro, who introduced the resolution, described the observance as an opportunity to include Indigenous voices and stories that have often been overlooked in traditional narratives. Council President Sidney Katz noted that the measure received unanimous support from the County Council.
Maryland is home to several tribes recognized by the Maryland Commission on Indian Affairs, including the Accohannock Indian Tribe, Assateague Peoples Tribe, Nause-Waiwash Band of Indians, Piscataway Conoy Tribes, Cedarville Band of Piscataway Indians, Pocomoke Indian Nation, and the Youghiogheny River Band of Shawnee Indians.
While Montgomery County Government remains open on Indigenous Peoples’ Day, the observance is intended to recognize Native American heritage and history within the region. The County’s designation reflects an ongoing trend among local and state governments to update public holidays to reflect a more inclusive view of American history.