November 2024
November is Native American Heritage Month!
Native American Heritage Month, observed in November, honors the rich history, culture, and contributions of Native American peoples. This month highlights Indigenous achievements, resilience, and traditions, while also recognizing the challenges Native communities have faced and continue to face. Educational events, cultural exhibitions, and storytelling offer opportunities to learn about Native American history, celebrate their cultural heritage, and promote respect for Indigenous communities and their enduring impact on the United States. Check out these videos 👇🏼👇🏼👇🏼 to learn more!
Ways to celebrate
Learn and Share Indigenous History: Attend lectures, read books, or watch documentaries that focus on Native American history, culture, and contemporary issues. Share what you learn with friends, family, or on social media. Check out some of these resources:
Native American Research
Indigenous Peoples of the Americas: A Guide to Resources at the Library of Congress
American Folklife Center Collections: Indigenous Peoples of the Americas
Native American Resources from the Rare Book & Special Collections Division
Native American Spaces: Cartographic Resources at the Library of Congress
SPECIALTY GUIDES:
Support Your Local Native Artists and Businesses: Purchase art, jewelry, clothing, or other goods from Native American artisans and businesses to honor their craftsmanship and support their communities.
Visit Museums or Cultural Centers: Explore Native American exhibits or visit local tribal cultural centers to learn directly from the source. Many institutions offer special programming during November. Check out these galleries:
Participate in Virtual or Community Events: Many organizations host virtual panels, powwows, or storytelling sessions. Attend these events to engage with Native perspectives and celebrate their traditions.
Read Books by Indigenous Authors: Dive into the rich world of Indigenous literature. Authors like Louise Erdrich, Sherman Alexie, and Joy Harjo offer valuable insights into Native American experiences and perspectives.
Learn About Local Tribes: Research the Indigenous communities who originally lived in your area, as well as those who still do. Many tribes have websites or social media where they share events, traditions, and advocacy efforts.
Advocate and Educate: Raise awareness on Indigenous rights issues, such as land preservation, water rights, and representation. Encourage conversations in your community to deepen understanding and respect.
Honoring Native American Veterans
Related Pages:
Let’s use this time to honor the indigenous people, celebrate their accomplishments, and support their ongoing contributions!