In a recent city council meeting held on October 9th, the City of Round Rock made a significant move toward recognizing the original stewards of the land. Mayor Craig Morgan and the City Council have proclaimed October 13th, 2025, as Indigenous Peoples’ Day and November 2025 as National Native American Heritage Month. This action not only honors the history and contributions of Indigenous communities but also channels a commitment to equity and respect.
As reported by the City of Round Rock's official website, the proclamation was accepted by several members of the municipal staff, community leaders, and members of the city's Historic Preservation Commission, reflecting a collective acknowledgement of the deep roots Indigenous peoples have in the region. Specifically, it was noted that Round Rock is located on the traditional lands of the Tonkawa, Comanche, Lipan Apache, and Tawakoni tribes, whose connections to these lands reach back "from time immemorial."
Indigenous Peoples’ Day, often celebrated in lieu of Columbus Day, serves as an alternative commemoration that focuses on the contributions, culture, and history of Native American peoples rather than the narrative of European exploration and colonization. The Round Rock proclamation emphasizes not only the recognition of past contributions but also the city's resolve to foster inclusivity and understanding among all its citizens. "During National Native American Heritage Month, we celebrate the countless contributions of Native peoples past and present, honor the influence they have had on the advancement of our Nation," the proclamation reads, according to the City of Round Rock.
These proclamations align with a broader, national effort to acknowledge and teach the history and culture of Indigenous communities. In accepting the proclamation, Historic Preservation Commission Chair Richard Parson, Vice-Chair Sharon Whitaker, and the other attending commission members voiced their approval for the city's commitment to recognizing the diverse and rich heritage of native peoples in Round Rock. It encapsulates an intentional stride toward inclusivity and respect for the Indigenous peoples and invites the whole community to participate in this observance and in fostering mutual respect and understanding.
