As president of the Society of American Indians, Coolidge issued a formal proclamation in 1915 declaring the second Sunday of May as American Indian Day.
The drive for a formal holiday began in the early 20th century, led by Indigenous activists who sought both cultural recognition and legal citizenship for Native Americans. american indian day
The journey of American Indian Day—the precursor to today’s National Native American Heritage Month —is a century-long story of advocacy, from solo horseback rides to federal proclamations. Initially conceived as a single day of recognition, it has evolved into a nationwide celebration of Indigenous cultures and resilience. The Pioneers of Recognition As president of the Society of American Indians,