ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. (KRQE) – On Monday, New Mexicans recognized and acknowledged Indigenous people and communities in the state as well as America's difficult history surrounding the state holiday. "Every day is Indigenous Peoples' Day and we're just lucky we get to celebrate it here together today," said Chief Operation Officer Monique Fargua, Indian Pueblo Cultural Center. UNM sees a record-breaking increase in first-year student enrollment Since 1971, the second Monday of October has been celebrated as Columbus Day. Indigenous Peoples' Day is a relatively new holiday that received federal recognition three years ago. New Mexico is one of 17 states to change Columbus Day to Indigenous Peoples' Day. "The fact that New Mexico celebrates Indigenous Peoples' Day is a wonderful feeling. The fact that my children and our children's children will be able to see themselves as part of this day is super special," said Fargua. The federal holiday has faced controversy in recent years over Columbus' abuse and exploitation of Indigenous people. "I think some of the controversy is tied to the narrative around Columbus and him finding America, when really as First Nations people, as Indigenous people of the United States, we were already here! There was no point in us being found," said Fargua. In 2019, Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham signed into state law the establishment of Indigenous Peoples' Day. Governor Lujan Grisham sent this statement on Monday: Today, I join all New Mexicans in celebrating the Indigenous nations and people of New Mexico and across the country while honoring their sacred languages, cultures, and heritage. Today is about reflecting on history, learning from it, and recognizing the resilience of our indigenous communities. My administration continues to strengthen relationships with the nations, tribes and pueblos in New Mexico built on the premise of honoring tribal sovereignty and self-determination. Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham Indian Affairs Department Secretary Josett Monette, a member of the Turtle Mountain Band of Chippewa Indians sent this statement: Indigenous Peoples' Day represents recognition and acknowledgment of Indigenous people in our state as well as our country’s difficult history. Indigenous histories have been repressed, but New Mexico is correcting that and empowering Native American people in New Mexico to be at the forefront of our state’s identity, culture, and future. Indigenous People are resilient and continue to make incredible and valuable contributions throughout New Mexico in every industry. Indigenous Peoples’ Day provides an opportunity to honor and understand those vital contributions and to take some time to learn a little more about our Indigenous partners and relatives in our great state. Indian Affairs Department Secretary Josett Monette