HAMILTON, N.Y. -- It was a celebration dedicated to the country's native people.

Dozens of residents took part in the annual Native American Arts and Culture Festival at Colgate University Saturday.

Members of various nations came to share their indigenous art, music and dance. 

The largest number of people came from the Iroquois nation which neighbors the university.

There's been a growing discussion over the acknowledgment of Columbus Day and Indigenous Peoples' Day.

Some at the festival say they are glad there is a growing interest and appreciation for the culture. 

"No matter where you go, you are a representation of your people, a representative of the Onondaga Nation which is the nation where I'm from. We just have to constantly do that everywhere we go. We always meet new people and there's always people around that still have no clue, but they're willing to get educated and excited to learn more about our culture, so it's very exciting," said Awenheeyoh Powless, artist and dancer.

Colgate University faculty and students started the festival in 2001.