New York City to Honor Indigenous History in 400th Anniversary Celebrations

New York City plans a year of events in 2025 to celebrate its 400th anniversary, with a focal point on recognizing the city’s Indigenous history. The Lenape Nation, the Indigenous people who inhabited Manhattan long before the Dutch settlers arrived, is set to play a significant role in these commemorations. The Lenape have highlighted their historical and cultural significance, asserting that they remain an integral part of the city’s identity today. They emphasized their harmonious existence with nature and their lasting connection to the land as foundational to New York City’s development (Source: https://youtu.be/SCRvbWvYkOc).

The announcement of the 400th anniversary celebrations comes as part of a broader initiative titled “Founding by NYC.” This initiative aims to forge partnerships with various local organizations, including the Lenape Center and the Broadway League, to create a diverse program reflective of the city’s rich history and multicultural fabric. Mayor Eric Adams underscored the importance of this collaboration across numerous sectors and city agencies to honor both the Indigenous past and the contemporary cultural landscape (Source: https://youtu.be/97o1eFxJfRA).

Events planned for the year invite participants to reflect on the legacies of the Lenape and the many communities that have shaped the city’s narrative. Community engagement will be central to these celebrations, encouraging New Yorkers to explore and acknowledge their city’s complex history as part of the anniversary festivities (Source: https://youtu.be/97o1eFxJfRA). The mayor’s office anticipates that the events will not only provide an opportunity for celebration but also foster a deeper understanding of the city’s Indigenous roots and their ongoing influence (Source: https://youtu.be/SCRvbWvYkOc).