Indian Day
April 19, Saturday
History of the holiday
Establishment of the holiday. Indian Day was established in 1943 in Brazil on the initiative of Manuel Maria Cardoso, then Minister of Social Welfare. This day was chosen in honor of the Conference of Indians of America (CPIA), which took place at the Pan American Union in 1940 in Mexico City and was the first international forum dedicated to the rights of indigenous peoples of America.
Previous events. It is important to note that before the establishment of an official holiday, the Indians of Brazil had long faced violence, cultural oppression and marginalization. After a period of colonization and the destruction of their traditional ways of life, the day was established as a way to recognize their important role in the development of the country and to stimulate dialogue on their rights.
How the day is celebrated
Cultural events and festivals. In Brazil, this day is marked by various cultural events, such as exhibitions of traditional Indian art, songs, dances and craft fairs. Many cities organize festivals where Indians from different regions of the country can present their culture.
Conferences and debates. An important part of the celebration are events where the problems and rights of indigenous peoples are discussed. These debates can be held in the form of conferences, round tables or public lectures with the participation of representatives of government agencies and organizations working to protect the rights of Indians.
Protests and actions. In some cases, Indian Day is accompanied by protests and rallies that aim to draw attention to pressing issues such as illegal deforestation in the Amazon, threats to indigenous peoples' territories, and the need for greater protection of their rights.