Indigenous Peoples Day celebrated with music and food in Lincoln

LINCOLN, Neb (KLKN) – From sunrise to sundown on Monday, Indigenous people in Lincoln celebrated a day showcasing their culture and honoring their ancestors.

Sounds of drums, song and dance could be heard inside the University of Nebraska-Lincoln’s East Campus Union as Native Americans and community members gathered for an Indigenous Peoples Day powwow.

The event was not only a way to showcase their culture, but also to honor their ancestors and remember their roots.

“We continue to fight for our human rights and for our place in the society while still maintaining our original, traditional ways,” said Steve Laravie, executive director of the Lincoln Indian Center.

After the powwow, everyone was invited to go to the Indian Center for a traditional meal featuring Indigenous staples such as three sisters stew, bison, walleye, blue corn dumplings and maple-glazed field pumpkins.

“This is what today is about: the celebration of who we are as a people,” Laravie said. “We are made up of many tribes. You know, we’re very diverse.”