Native American Heritage Month

Honoring Heritage and Resilience

Native American Heritage Month, observed each November, invites reflection on the rich and diverse cultures of Indigenous peoples and acknowledges centuries of resilience in the face of colonization. The observance also honors the enduring contributions of Native nations to the history, identity, and future of the United States.

The path to a month-long recognition was gradual. In 1915, Blackfoot Chief Red Fox James rode on horseback across the United States to petition governors for a day honoring Native Americans. Decades later, in 1986, Congress passed a resolution authorizing the president to proclaim the week of November 23–30 as “American Indian Week.” Similar proclamations followed in 1987, 1988, and 1989. In 1990, President George H.W. Bush approved a joint resolution designating November 1990 as “National American Indian Heritage Month,” establishing the first month-long national observance. Since 2009, U.S. presidents have consistently recognized November as Native American Heritage Month.

Celebrating Living Traditions

Throughout the month, museums, schools, and tribal nations host events that highlight Native languages, crafts, dance, music, and sovereignty. Across the country, these celebrations showcase cultural continuity and innovation:

• In Arizona, Navajo weavers demonstrate intricate techniques passed down through generations.
• In Alaska, Tlingit carvers shape totem poles while sharing stories of clan lineage and community identity.
• In Oklahoma, powwows unite dancers in colorful regalia adorned with feathers and beadwork, while drummers keep the heartbeat rhythm of the gathering.
• Universities host symposiums exploring treaties, boarding school histories, and modern legal battles over land, water rights, and representation.
• Native authors such as Louise Erdrich, Joy Harjo, and Tommy Orange share readings that illuminate Indigenous experience, while chefs like Sean Sherman prepare meals featuring traditional ingredients such as wild rice, bison, squash, and corn.

Truth, Healing, and Advocacy

Native American Heritage Month also calls attention to histories often excluded from mainstream narratives: forced removals like the Trail of Tears, broken treaties, the suppression of Native languages through boarding schools, and ongoing efforts to preserve land and culture. Confronting these truths is a step toward healing and justice. Understanding the past helps foster empathy and informs support for current issues—from protecting sacred sites and water sources to defending tribal sovereignty and voting rights.

Reframing Narratives

November’s timing alongside Thanksgiving offers a moment to reconsider how America tells its stories. Many families celebrate the holiday without acknowledging Native perspectives or the impact of colonization. Native American Heritage Month invites all people to broaden their understanding, recognizing that gratitude and reflection must include the voices of those whose lands and lives shaped the nation’s foundation. The month encourages dialogue, learning, and respect across communities.

Why Native American Heritage Month Matters

This month is not only a time of remembrance but a celebration of living cultures and ongoing contributions. Native nations continue to shape environmental stewardship, literature, art, governance, and cuisine. Recognizing Native American Heritage Month reminds us that these communities are vibrant and contemporary, not relics of the past. The goal is to amplify Indigenous voices, strengthen relationships built on respect, and promote shared responsibility for protecting cultural and ecological heritage all year long.

Ways to Observe Native American Heritage Month

• Learn from Native voices: Read books, poetry, or journalism by Indigenous authors and follow Native-led organizations on social media.
• Attend cultural events: Visit museums, powwows, art exhibits, or virtual panels organized by tribal nations and Native cultural centers.
• Support Native businesses: Purchase from Native artisans, farmers, and entrepreneurs to strengthen tribal economies.
• Educate yourself and others: Study the history of tribal treaties, boarding schools, and current issues affecting Indigenous communities.
• Reflect on land and history: Learn which Indigenous nation’s land you reside on and acknowledge it in your communications or gatherings.
• Cook Indigenous foods: Explore recipes that use traditional ingredients like corn, beans, squash, bison, or wild rice.
• Amplify year-round respect: Continue learning, supporting, and advocating beyond November to honor Native heritage every day.