Clallam County proclaims Indigenous Peoples' Day after heated public debate

The Clallam County Board of Commissioners voted to adopt a proclamation recognizing the second Monday in October as Indigenous Peoples' Day and encouraging education and partnership with local tribes.

Commissioner Josiah Ozias, who read the proclamation to the board, said the document was meant to “encourage empathy” and to prompt the community to “consider what the implications of this history might be.” Ozias read language that recognizes the county occupies tribal ancestral land and calls for appreciation of indigenous cultures and partnerships.

The proclamation prompted extended public comment before the vote. Opponents described the language as divisive and inconsistent with the pledge of allegiance. Jake Segars of District 3 told the commissioners that the proclamation “is promoting a false narrative of racism that is insulting to the residents of this county,” and asked why the county…