GOSHEN, Ind. — Goshen’s Indigenous People’s Day Celebration will join First Fridays’ “Harvest” Festival for the first time on Friday, Oct. 3. The partnership will bring music, dance, and cultural presentations to Ignition Garage from 6 to 8 p.m., honoring the Potawatomi and Miami people.
The City of Goshen’s Community Relations Commission sponsors the event. Activities will take place both inside and outside Ignition Garage, 120 E. Washington St. The event is free and open to the public.
Music, Dance, and Cultural Sharing
In cooperation with the Pokagon Band of Potowatami, the Iron Bear Singers will perform pow wow drum songs and dances. Sterling BigBear III, Ponca/Ihankotonwan, serves as keeper of the drum.
The drum honors BigBear’s grandfather. Singers represent many nations within the Chicago Treaty territory. They perform across Turtle Island, carrying blessings that connect communities.
Inside Ignition Garage, Madalene BigBear will present as the evening’s featured speaker. She is a citizen of the Pokagon Band of the Potawatomi Indians.
She preserves Bodwéwadmi traditions, creates safe spaces in her homelands, and builds relationships that strengthen identity while promoting understanding.
Mayor Gina Leichty will welcome guests and attendees followed by a Land Acknowledgment reading recognizing the Potawatomi and Miami people.
“History and culture of the Potawatomi and Miami tribes have left an indelible mark on our City and region,” Leichty said. “We stand on their ancestral lands and commit to preserve and share stories and traditions with respect and reverence.”
Goshen will observe the official Indigenous People’s Day on Monday, Oct. 13 (all city offices will be closed), but chose to align this year’s Celebration event with First Fridays to expand its exposure and dialogue.
Indigenous People’s Day Celebration At a Glance
- Date/Time: Friday, Oct. 3, 6–8 p.m.
- Location: Ignition Garage, 120 E. Washington St., Goshen (inside and outside)
- Partnership: Goshen First Fridays “Harvest” Festival
- Presented by: City of Goshen’s Community Relations Commission
Learning Beyond the Stage
Information tables will provide opportunities for continued learning and conversation.
- The Goshen Public Library will share Indigenous resources and recommended reading.
- The Goshen Historical Society will highlight local history and preservation efforts connected to Native communities.
- Goshen College’s One Circle, a student-led group, will showcase its work addressing injustices toward Indigenous people.
- The Community Relations Commission will provide information about its mission to promote equality, dialogue, and inclusion throughout the city.