November is national Native American Heritage Month

How well do you know Native American history?

By Casey Dawson

November is dedicated to raising awareness of Native history and current events, showcasing indigenous culture and accomplishments, and celebrating the diverse communities of Native Americans in the U.S.

Also referred to as "American Indian and Alaska Native Heritage Month," former President George H.W. Bush officially approved a month-long national recognition in 1990.
A number of cities and states have also re-designated Columbus Day as Native American Day or Indigenous Peoples’ Day, but apart from President Joe Biden’s proclamation (making him the first president to mark Indigenous Peoples’ Day) there has yet to be a federal change.
While any month, or day, can be devoted to learning more about the indigenous people of the Americas, here is a short compilation of educational resources, helpful organizations, and events you can participate in this November.

Nov 4 - Roundtable Discussion: A free panel hosted by the National Parks Service (NPS) and National Environmental Education Foundation (NEEF) on native history and public land.
Nov 5-13 - American Indian Film Festival: A virtual film festival featuring documentaries, short films, and feature films of all genres by indigenous artists. The American Indian Motion Picture Awards Show will stream for free on Nov 5.
Nov 12-18 - Native Cinema Showcase: A virtual event featuring 47 films by indigenous artists and exclusive filmmaker panels.
Public Broadcasting Service (PBS) is offering a curated collection of documentaries this month.

Events and programs, both virtual and in-person, are being held across the country, so check your local event calendars for how you can get involved.

Here are some examples in cities across the US:

Washington, D.C. - Visit the Smithsonian’s National Museum of the American Indian, and the new Native American Veterans Memorial, which opened just last year. Admission is free year-round.
Melbourne, Florida - The Native Rhythms Festival will offer live concerts including music of the Native American flute, food and art vendors, and workshops in a free three-day festival from Nov 12-14.
Los Angeles - Red Nation International Film Festival runs from November 1 - 30, and includes both in-person and virtual film screenings, award ceremonies, and events.
New York City - A variety of events are being put on by the NYC Parks department, including a free Treasure Hunt for kids and families on Nov 13.

Search your address and explore this interactive map to see the tribal nations and languages that once populated your area. The site also has articles and research resources.
The National Native American Heritage Month website has exhibits, videos, events, and activities.
If you want to learn more about policy issues and initiatives, check out the National Congress of American Indians website.
Indian Country Today is a news publication dedicated to broadening perspectives on and bringing a voice to Indigenous people.
The National Parks Service hosts a variety of educational resources, media, and event opportunities.

The American Indian College Fund, which advocates for and provides scholarships to Native students
The Native American Rights Fund, a nonprofit organization dedicated to ensuring the rights and sovereignty of American Indian tribes, organizations, and individuals.
The Native American Disability Law Center, which advocates for the legal rights of Native Americans with disabilities.
Charity Navigator’s list of highly ranked Native-led nonprofits

More Ideas

This list from the American Indian Alaska Native Tourism Association (AIANTA) has so many different ways you can support, with places to shop local and support indigenous businesses, book lists, and media resources.

Let us know any events we may have missed or additions we should make.

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