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International Day of The World’s Indigenous People

Honor the world's Indigenous People on International Day of The World’s Indigenous People - recognize their unique cultures and celebrate their uniqueness!

Sunday

August 2026

Last updated February 7, 2026 · by the Holiday Calendar Team

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YEARLY DATEAugust 9

OBSERVED INInternationally

CATEGORYCulture

SUBCATEGORYIndigenous

INTRO

Introduction

PHOTO

Celebrate International Day of The World’s Indigenous People on August 9th by learning more about the cultures, languages and histories of different indigenous groups around the world. This day was established in 1994 to recognize and honor the rights, achievements, and contributions of indigenous people. It is also a time to celebrate their unique identities, spiritualties, and cultural expressions. There are many ways to get involved in this special day – from attending local events to learning more about your own heritage and the history of other indigenous peoples. Let's come together to recognize our shared humanity!

TIMELINE

International Day of The World’s Indigenous People Timeline

First UN Study on Indigenous People

The United Nations initiates the first-ever study dedicated to investigating the conditions of the world's indigenous populations.

UN Working Group Established

The United Nations Working Group on Indigenous Populations is established, acknowledging the need for a systematic approach to address indigenous issues.

International Year of the World’s Indigenous People

The United Nations General Assembly proclaims 1993 as the International Year of the World’s Indigenous People to raise awareness.

Establishment of Indigenous Day

The UN General Assembly establishes August 9th as International Day of the World’s Indigenous People to annually recognize indigenous people's rights and cultures.

Adoption of Indigenous Rights Declaration

The United Nations adopts the Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples, affirming the minimum standards for their survival, dignity, and well-being.

World Conference on Indigenous Peoples

The United Nations announces that it will host the first-ever World Conference on Indigenous Peoples in 2014.

GET INVOLVED

How to Celebrate International Day of The World’s Indigenous People

Attend a cultural event

Visit your local museum or community center and attend an event that celebrates the culture of indigenous people from around the world. You can learn about the history, customs, and traditions of these people and gain a better understanding of their importance in the world.

RESEARCH

Research indigenous cultures

Take some time to research different indigenous cultures. Read books, watch documentaries, or talk with people who are knowledgeable about these cultures. This is a great way to gain an understanding of their unique history and customs.

VISIT

Visit an indigenous community

If you have the opportunity, try to visit an indigenous community and get to know the people who live there. You can learn about their way of life by talking to them and participating in their day-to-day activities.

HELP

Help support a charity

Look for charities that support indigenous people around the world and donate what you can. Your money can be used to help fund initiatives that protect the rights of these people, provide education, or help promote economic development.

Share stories

Share stories about indigenous people on social media or talk to your friends and family about them. This is a great way to spread awareness about indigenous cultures and help educate people about their importance in the world.

WHY THIS DAY MATTERS

Why International Day of The World’s Indigenous People is Important

It advocates for protection & conservation

International Day of The World’s Indigenous People serves as a reminder for us all to protect the lands and resources vital to sustaining indigenous communities. This day not only advocates for basic human rights, but it also works towards environmental preservation, which is important given the current state of global climate change.

It brings attention to indigenous rights

International Day of The World’s Indigenous People brings attention to the struggles and impediments indigenous communities are often faced with. It is also an opportunity to learn about the rich cultural diversity that exists among these groups and to recognize their right to self-determination, autonomy, and preservation of their cultural identity.

It raises awareness of underrepresented populations

Indigenous people are an often overlooked and underrepresented population in many countries around the world. International Day of The World’s Indigenous People helps to raise awareness of this issue and encourages dialogue among governments, organizations, and individuals so that collective action can be taken in support of these marginalized groups.