Resistance 500!

The Resistance 500! movement raised awareness of the denial of indig­enous peoples’ sovereignty and self­-determination rights, marking the 500th anniversary of Columbus’s arrival in the Americas, challenging the dominant narrative of “discovery” and instead highlight five centuries of Indigenous, Black, and popular resistance to colonization and oppression. The campaign sought to unite diverse social movements under the theme of “unity in diversity,” creating coalitions among Indigenous, environmental, and social justice organizations to resist ongoing colonialism and neoliberal policies.

In the Bay Area, the campaign involved broad coalitions, including the Bay Area Regional Indian Alliance, Bay Area Action’s Project for Indigenous Nations and the Environment (PINE) and other progressive organizations, to organize educational events, marches, and calls for Indigenous rights. The campaign advocated for the recognition of Indigenous Peoples Day instead of Columbus Day

More information:

The 500 Years of Resistance Campaign 30 years: a pioneering initiative

Resistance 500 & The First Indigenous Peoples Day

500 Years of Indigenous Resistance

Also see Action vol 3, no 2

Project Leader: Erika Little