CARSON CITY, NV — Today, the Senate Committee on Government Affairs heard Assembly Bill 144, sponsored by Assemblymember Shea Backus. The bill, which passed the Nevada Assembly with a 27–15 vote, would formally observe Indigenous Peoples’ Day on the second Monday in October — a date already observed by counties, businesses, and communities across the state and nation.
Taylor Patterson, Executive Director of Native Voters Alliance Nevada, issued the following statement:
“Nevada has an opportunity to correct the record. Not by removing anyone from it, but by finally telling the full story. Indigenous peoples have always been here. We have protected these lands since time immemorial, raised our families here, and fought to be recognized in systems that were never built for us.
“AB144 is not about a date. It is about the people who have carried the weight of erasure for generations and continue to lead with strength, purpose, and vision. It is about our youth, who deserve to see their identities honored in the civic life of this state. It is about our elders, who deserve to see the day they have long fought for become law.
“Assemblymember Backus is not only the sponsor of this bill. She is also Nevada’s only sitting Indigenous legislator. With this bill, she carries not just a policy, but a promise, one our communities have waited far too long to see fulfilled.
“The Senate now has a choice. Will it continue to look away, or will it finally recognize the people who have always been here and always will be?”
Olivia Tanager, Director of the Sierra Club’s Toiyabe Chapter, issued the following statement:
“The Sierra Club Toiyabe Chapter proudly supports the recognition of Indigenous Peoples’ Day in October in Nevada. This is a meaningful step toward honoring the deep history, cultural richness, and enduring stewardship of Indigenous communities across this land. Recognizing Indigenous Peoples’ Day not only acknowledges past injustices but also reaffirms our commitment to equity, justice, and the protection of our shared environment.”
André Wade, State Director of Silver State Equality, issued the following statement:
“It’s important that we come together as a state and honor all of our histories and all of our people. AB144 recognizes the Indigenous peoples who shaped Nevada’s lands, built its communities, and ensured its prosperity. It calls us to acknowledge the value of their heritage, traditions and contributions, leading to a more inclusive, respectful and equitable Nevada. Let’s unite to celebrate our shared history with support of AB144.”
Christi Cabrera-Georgeson, Deputy Director of the Nevada Conservation League, issued the following statement:
“Nevada’s Indigenous communities’ deep connection to the land continues to inspire stewardship and resilience today. By understanding their history and contributions, we honor the authentic spirit of this land and its people. Recognizing Indigenous Peoples Day celebrates the resilience, culture, and stories of the people who shaped this land.”
Jane Audette, Showing Up for Racial Justice LV, issued the following statement:
“SURJ LV organizes white people to act for racial justice with sustained engagement and accountability, to build a powerful multi-racial majority to challenge racism in all its forms. As such, we stand in support of NVAN and making AB144 state law!
“Our Indigenous brothers and sisters have always cared for this land. They have chosen the second Monday in October as the day they seek to recognize their community, a day which is already observed by counties, businesses, and communities all across Nevada and our nation. SURJ LV calls on our State Legislature to do the same!”
Shelbie Swartz, Executive Director of the Institute for a Progressive Nevada, issued the following statement:
“Today marks a pivotal moment in Nevada’s journey toward justice and inclusivity. AB144 represents more than symbolic recognition – it is a critical step in acknowledging the enduring contributions, resilience, and rich heritage of the Indigenous people who have always called these lands home. By formalizing Indigenous Peoples’ Day, Nevada signals its commitment to telling a truthful, inclusive history and affirming the dignity of communities whose voices have too long been marginalized. We urge the Senate to seize this moment and ensure that future generations grow up in a state that truly recognizes and honors all its people.”
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About Native Voters Alliance Nevada: A rising powerhouse in the Nevada political landscape, Native Voters Alliance Nevada (NVAN) is dedicated to forging a dynamic Native ecosystem and fostering political strength within Indigenous communities. We serve as a resonating platform for urban and Tribal Nation voices, guiding elections, molding legislation, and championing Tribal sovereignty. Join us in our empowering journey and learn more at https://nativevotesnv.org/.