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Every November, the United States observes Native American Heritage Month—a time dedicated to recognizing the rich histories, diverse cultures, and invaluable contributions of North America’s Indigenous peoples. It’s more than a month of remembrance; it’s an opportunity to deepen understanding, celebrate living traditions, and acknowledge the resilience of the country’s 574 distinct sovereign tribal nations.
The roots of Native American Heritage Month trace back over a century. In the early 1900s, Dr. Arthur C. Parker, a Seneca Indian and one of the first Native American archaeologists, advocated for a day to honor the “First Americans.” His efforts—and those of organizations like the American Indian Association—led to the first “American Indian Day” in 1916, proclaimed by the governor of New York. Over time, other states followed, and in 1990, President George H. W. Bush officially declared November as National American Indian Heritage Month, now more commonly called Native American Heritage Month.
Throughout the month, communities across the country host powwows, storytelling events, art exhibits, and lectures celebrating Native languages, music, and traditions. These celebrations highlight that Native cultures are not relics of the past—they are living, evolving, and vibrant. From the Navajo Nation’s weaving and silversmithing traditions to the Pueblo peoples’ pottery and ceremonial dances, Indigenous creativity continues to inspire art, fashion, and design worldwide.
It’s also a time to reflect on the deeper truths of American history. Native Americans have endured centuries of displacement, cultural suppression and broken treaties. Yet their resilience has preserved not only their heritage but also invaluable ecological knowledge, spiritual wisdom and stewardship practices that continue to benefit the planet today. Many sustainable agricultural techniques, medicinal plant uses and environmental conservation methods have roots in Indigenous science.
Education plays a central role in honoring this month. Schools and communities have started to move beyond stereotypes and inaccurate storytelling to include real Native voices and experiences in their curriculums. Learning about the hundreds of distinct tribes across North America—each with its own language, governance, and traditions—helps replace misconceptions with respect and understanding.
Native American Heritage Month is also an invitation to support Native-led organizations, artists and entrepreneurs who continue to strengthen their communities, especially in New Mexico. Buying directly from Native artisans, visiting tribal museums, or attending cultural events helps ensure that these stories and traditions thrive for future generations.
As the nation reflects this November, it’s important to remember that honoring Native heritage isn’t confined to one month—it’s a year-round commitment to learning, listening and building respect. The history of this land is deeply intertwined with the histories of its first peoples. Their stories are not just part of America’s past—they are essential to its present and future.
By celebrating Native American Heritage Month with openness and curiosity, we not only honor the legacies of Indigenous communities but also recognize that their wisdom and culture continue to shape and enrich the shared story of this nation.
