Indian Literacy Day Activities

Celebrations and importance of the date

On this day of the year, there are several events dedicated to the appreciation of indigenous culture. In schools, students usually do research on indigenous culture, museums hold exhibitions and municipalities organize commemorative parties. It should also be a day of reflection on the importance of preserving indigenous peoples, maintaining their lands and respecting their cultural manifestations.

We must also remember that the Indians already inhabited our country when the Portuguese arrived here in 1500. Since that date, what we have seen has been the disrespect and decline of indigenous populations. This process is still taking place, as with mining and exploitation of natural resources, many indigenous peoples are losing their lands.

Origin of the day of the Indian

In 1940, the First Inter-American Indigenous Congress was held in Mexico. In addition to the participation of various government authorities from the countries of the Americas, several indigenous leaders from this region were invited to participate in the meetings and decisions. However, the Indians did not attend the first days of the event, as they were worried and fearful. This behavior was understandable, since the Indians had been persecuted, attacked and decimated by “white men” for centuries.

However, after some meetings and reflections, several indigenous leaders decided to participate, after understanding the importance of that historic moment. This participation took place on April 19, which was later chosen, in the American continent, as the Day of the Indian.

In Brazil, this commemorative date was created in 1943 by President Getúlio Vargas, through decree law number 5.540.