On Monday, October 12, 2026, we will celebrate Indigenous Peoples’ Day. In 2019, Wabanaki Tribal leaders and representatives joined Governor Janet Mills as she signed legislation to establish Indigenous Peoples’ Day in what we now call Maine. This day recognizes the resilience, diversity, cultures, and contributions of Indigenous Peoples and replaced Columbus Day in Maine. The day provides an opportunity to center Indigenous voices, deepen our understanding of the devastating effects of colonization, and recognize the continued presence and leadership of Indigenous Peoples today.
Below are resources curated to support teaching and learning about Indigenous Peoples’ Day and the Wabanaki Nations. These resources can support learning throughout the year, beyond the observance of the single day.
Wabanaki Nations and the Dawnland
| Title/Link | Notes | Resource Type |
| Indigenous Peoples’ Day Message: Maulian Bryant (MBIPD.mp4) | Wabanaki Alliance Director, Maulian Bryant | Video |
| 2026–27 Wabanaki Studies Professional Development | Wabanaki Studies Professional Development Opportunities | Document |
| Wabanaki Studies Curriculum & Resources | Wabanaki Studies Interdisciplinary Curriculum & Resources | Documents |
| Dawnland | Dawnland documentary | Documentary |
| Wabanaki Studies Indigenous Literature Kit | Curated resources, guides, and tools to support the integration of Indigenous literature into classroom instruction | Literature Kit |
| Wabanaki Studies Framework | Wabanaki Studies Education framework | Framework |
Additional Indigenous Peoples’ Day and Indigenous Rights Resources
| Title/Link | Notes | Resource Type |
| United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples | Declaration | |
| Indigenous Peoples’ Day (IllumiNative) | IllumiNative | Lesson plan; confirm grade range for the linked resource |
| Indigenous Peoples’ Day | All About the Holidays (PBS) | PBS | K-5 video |
| Indigenous Peoples’ Day Resources | Zinn Education Project | Lessons and resources |
| Unlearning Columbus Day Myths: Celebrating Indigenous Peoples’ Day | National Museum of the American Indian | Handout with activities and resources |
| Why more people are celebrating Indigenous Peoples Day | PBS NewsHour | 2019, PBS | Article |
| Reconsider Columbus Day | Learning for Justice | Learning for Justice | Article with activities |
To learn more about Wabanaki Studies and ways to engage, please visit the Maine DOE Wabanaki Studies webpage or contact Brianne Lolar, Maine DOE Wabanaki Studies Specialist, at brianne.lolar@maine.gov.
