October 7, 2022

Dear UM Community,

On Monday, Oct. 10, the UM family and communities across Montana will observe Indigenous Peoples Day.

This day is an important opportunity for all of us to honor Indigenous members of our community. On this day, we not only recognize the many ways Native American tribes have for centuries shaped the valley where the University of Montana sits but we also celebrate the tremendous impact Native American students, faculty and alumni continue to contribute to our present and future.

Indigenous Peoples Day calls us to continue our ongoing efforts to build an inclusive campus that is welcome to all. Part of this effort is to actively embrace opportunities for learning. I encourage everyone to participate in and learn from today’s events.

9:00 a.m.

Join the UM community for a tribal flag raising and honor song at the Payne Family Native American Center.

11:30 a.m.–1:30 p.m.

Enjoy the annual Indigenous Peoples Day Lunch at the Food Zoo.

12:30 p.m.  

Join the Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes (CSKT), the Séliš-Ql̓ispé Culture Committee, Missoula County, the City of Missoula, the Montana Department of Transportation and others to officially name and dedicate Beartracks Bridge on Higgins Avenue in honor of the valley’s original inhabitants.

2:30 p.m. 

Make your way to Caras Park to participate in a powwow featuring drums, dancers, food trucks, tribal vendors and educational materials.

Please take time today to celebrate, participate and learn together.

Seth