Mississippi House Bill HB1291

Mississippi 2025 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/20/25
• Refer: 1/20/25
• Failed: 2/4/25

Caption

Indigenous Peoples' Day; declare second Monday in October as a day of observance.

Impact

If passed, this bill would officially recognize Indigenous Peoples' Day as a day of observance in Mississippi, thereby contributing to a growing national movement to celebrate Indigenous cultures and histories. There will not be any legal holiday status granted, which means the observance would serve primarily as a recognition rather than a day off. The bill aims to promote cultural awareness and reflection on the histories of Indigenous groups, as well as their ongoing contributions to society.

Summary

House Bill 1291 proposes the amendment of Section 3-3-7 of the Mississippi Code to establish the second Monday of every October as 'Indigenous Peoples' Day.' This initiative is aimed at recognizing and honoring the significant contributions of Native American heritage and culture to Mississippi and the broader United States. The bill seeks to promote awareness of the historical and contemporary experiences of Indigenous peoples and their communities.

Contention

The bill may face varying levels of support or opposition. Supporters argue that establishing Indigenous Peoples' Day is a necessary step towards acknowledging injustices faced by Native Americans and providing them with a platform for recognition within state history. However, opponents might express concerns regarding the implications of modifying established holidays or the potential for disputes between different cultural commemorations. The bill's proponents will need to navigate these discussions carefully to garner sufficient support for its passage.