‘We lived, we survived’: Boise’s Indigenous population celebrates annual return
Boise kicked off the Return of the Boise Valley People the annual celebration that marks the return of Indigenous Idahoans to land their ancestors were forcibly removed from decades ago.
Five tribes were represented at Thursday’s opening celebration, which included speeches from Mayor Lauren McLean, tribal officials and representatives from the Idaho National Guard.
The annual celebration, which began in 2011, is to honor the return of Indigenous peoples of the region to their homeland, from which they were forcibly removed in the late 1800s.
Prayers were conducted, and drum circles played traditional songs Speakers stressed unity among communities ahead of a weekend dedicated to the history of the Treasure Valley’s Indigenous history.
McLean said she had been in conversations with tribal leaders and the Idaho National Guard about improving relations between the entities amid a traumatic history for my Indigenous people in the region.
“Tonight’s celebration represents the commitment from the city of Boise to the valuing of the historical and contemporary importance of the tribes,” she said.
Lori Edmo, the editor of Sho-Ban News in Fort Hall, told the small crowd that the land continues to hold significance for Boise Valley tribes, especially Eagle Rock, which is a sacred site for some local tribes.
“We always come back to pray and have our ceremonies there, because a lot of our ancestors are buried throughout this valley,” Edmo said.
Brian Thomas, chairman of the Shoshone-Paiute Business Council, said he’s found himself thinking about the painful history of his people and other tribes in Idaho.
“We lived, we survived,” Thomas said. “Back from 1879 till today, we are survivors.”
McLean officially proclaimed Aug. 26 as “Return of the Boise Valley People Day” in Boise.
Various events will take place throughout the weekend. On Friday at Eagle Rock Park, booths will highlight cultural demonstrations and information. The celebration will continue through Sunday, Aug. 29.
This story was originally published August 27, 2021 at 4:00 AM.
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