American Indian Day -

In 1914, James rode 4,000 miles on horseback across the U.S. to gather endorsements from 24 state governors. He presented these signatures to the White House to petition for a national holiday. Early State Observances

Governor Ronald Reagan signed a resolution designating the fourth Friday in September as American Indian Day, which later became an official state holiday in 1998. Transition to National Recognition american indian day

The drive for a formal holiday began in the early 20th century, led by Indigenous activists who sought both cultural recognition and legal citizenship for Native Americans. In 1914, James rode 4,000 miles on horseback across the U