National American Indian Heritage Month

November is National American Indian Heritage Month. It was first declared in 1990 by President George H. W. Bush as a way to recognize and celebrate the tribal cultures of the Native American and Alaska Native people. Since then, the current president releases a proclamation each year declaring National American Indian Heritage Month.

The purpose of National American Indian Heritage Month is to recognize the important role that Native Americans have played in our history, as well as to acknowledge the injustices that they have suffered. It is also an opportunity to look to the future, to examine the challenges that Native Americans still face, and how those challenges can be overcome.

Related Links

• National American Indian and Alaska Native Heritage Month
  The Smithsonian Institution has a wealth of online resources for exploring the history and cultural heritage of Native Americans.
• National Museum of the American Indian
  Explore the online exhibitions of the National Musuem of the American Indian.
• Native American Affairs
  This site, hosted by the Department of Defense, celebrates the contributions of Native Americans to the U.S. armed forces.
• National American Indian and Alaska Native Heritage Month
  Visit the Indian Health Service’s site to explore information about events and ceremonies happening throughout the month.