November is Native American Heritage Month, also recognized as American Indian and Alaska Native Heritage Month. This month celebrates the cultures, traditions, and histories of Native Americans.
The National Congress of American Indians states that “Heritage Month is also an opportune time to educate the general public about tribes, to raise a general awareness about the unique challenges Native people have faced both historically and in the present, and the ways in which tribal citizens have worked to conquer these challenges.”
In 1990, President George H.W. Bush signed a joint resolution declaring November to be Native American Heritage Month. The resolution states that the aim of this month is to provide “enhanced self-esteem, pride, and self-awareness to young Native American Indians.” It also explains that Native American Heritage Month is in November because this month “concludes the traditional harvest season of Native American Indians and was generally a time of celebration and giving thanks.”
This designation was an advancement from American Indian Week, which was recognized from November 23-30 in 1976. In 1976, Jerry Eagle, a member of the Cherokee and Osage tribes, created the Native American Awareness Week legislation. This was the first historical week that recognized the nation of native peoples.
However, Native Americans and their history continue to be erased through lack of media coverage on Native American issues, lack of representation in the government, and infringement of Native American land.
In 2018, Native Americans had the highest poverty rate among all minority groups at 25.4%. Poverty makes many, especially women, vulnerable to kidnapping and murder. Unfortunately, there is a lack of reliable data on these missing reports due to widespread silence. It is important that we educate ourselves on not only Native American history but also current issues facing Native Americans and support Native American-owned businesses and organizations.
Interior Secretary Deb Haaland, the first Native American cabinet member, says, “We center our work on the voices of Indigenous people as we address the Missing and Murdered Indigenous peoples crisis and take action to help people heal from the painful forced assimilation practices of the Indian Boarding Schools… Native American history is American history and it’s only by recognizing that history that we can build a future that is equitable and inclusive.”
Chloe Foster, Barstow’s social media coordinator, explains that Barstow’s “communications team wanted to recognize the cultural observances and holidays that so many of our families celebrate.” Foster adds that enriching these experiences affirms the value of inclusivity and diversity in the school community.
Observing Native American Heritage Month is about honoring and recognizing history, supporting Native American communities, and learning about current problems affecting tribes. Organizations we can support throughout the year are Native Hope, Native American Rights Fund, and Native Wellness Institute.
