National Day of Indigenous Peoples
Day off: June 20, Friday
June 24, Tuesday
Meaning of the holiday:
* Reflects the centuries-old spiritual bond of indigenous peoples with nature, the cycles of the sun and the earth.
* Considered a "new year" moment for peoples such as the Mapuche (We Tripantu), Aymara (Machaq Mara), Quechua (Inti Raymi), Atacameño and Rapa Nui (Aringa Ora).
* Emphasizes the importance of cultural diversity and supports the strengthening of a national identity inclusive of various ethnic groups.
History of origin:
* The holiday was first recognized in 1998 by decree of President Eduardo Frei Ruiz-Tagle.
* In 2021, under President Sebastián Piñera, the holiday was granted official public holiday status by Law No. 21.357.
* The purpose is to promote respect, dialogue, and understanding between the state and indigenous peoples.
Who participates:
* The Mapuche — the largest indigenous ethnic group in Chile, particularly active in celebrating We Tripantu.
* Aymara — a people of the northern Andes, celebrate Machaq Mara.
* Quechua — living on the border with Peru and Bolivia, observe Inti Raymi.
* Rapa Nui — indigenous people of Easter Island, hold Aringa Ora.
* Also participating are the Diaguita, Colla, Atacameño, Yanacoya, Chongos, Kawésqar, and Selk’nam.
How it is celebrated:
* Traditional cleansing rituals and worship of water, sun, moon, and earth are performed.
* Cultural festivals feature traditional songs, dances, crafts, and food.
* Schools, universities, and cultural institutions host lectures, exhibitions, and themed events.
* Official ceremonies involve government representatives and community leaders.
Contemporary significance:
* The holiday plays an important role in the fight for the rights of indigenous peoples, recognition of their territories, autonomy, and languages.
* It contributes to the strengthening of ethnocultural identity among youth.
* It becomes a platform for dialogue between the state and communities, especially in the context of constitutional reforms.