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San Mateo County board proclaims Oct. 13 Indigenous Peoples' Day
Summary
The Board of Supervisors unanimously adopted a proclamation designating Oct. 13, 2025 as Indigenous Peoples' Day and heard a land acknowledgement and program overview from the county's Native and Indigenous Peoples Initiative.
The San Mateo County Board of Supervisors voted unanimously Oct. 7 to proclaim Oct. 13, 2025 as Indigenous Peoples' Day, a move sponsored by Vice President Noelia Curzo and supported by local native community leaders.
"Indigenous People's Day honors the histories, languages, cultures, and gifts that indigenous peoples have kept alive," Vice President Noelia Curzo said as she introduced the proclamation. Members of the county's Native and Indigenous Peoples Initiative described local observances and a land acknowledgement, noting partnerships with county Behavioral Health and outreach efforts aimed at revitalizing indigenous representation in county services.
Gloria Gutierrez, who identified herself as a Yaqui and a San Mateo County resident, thanked the board for the recognition and introduced a short land acknowledgement in original language. Commissioners described ongoing work on health equity initiatives, culturally rooted practices (including controlled burns as a historical land stewardship practice) and community events tied to Indigenous Peoples' Day, including an Alcatraz sunrise ceremony referenced by speakers.
The vote to adopt the proclamation was unanimous among present supervisors. Supporters said the local recognition complements statewide and national observances and helps the county preserve and share indigenous histories in parks and public education.
The board did not take additional formal action beyond adopting the proclamation; staff indicated follow‑up coordination with community groups for planned events.
