Kicking Off 2024 Native American Heritage Month

Since 1990, America has set aside the month of November to recognize and celebrate the beauty, richness, diversity, and uniqueness of our collective Native American heritage that is interwoven into the foundation and fabric of this country. However, the truth is, we are largely invisible to American people. Our existence as inherently sovereign domestic governments is unknown to most, the truth about our long, and complex nation to nation relationship is most often untold, and our existence is too often stereotyped, romanticized, and minimized as a mere historical footnote.

While there are real challenges that exist because of this complicated relationship and history that must be highlighted and addressed, we must also use moments like this to celebrate our successes, perseverance, and strength. However, the time is long past due for greater truth about our shared story with America, one where our history and continued existence is woven in more appropriately and understood by every American.

Native American Heritage Month offers an opportunity for Indian Country to achieve greater visibility and to create a new reality; rooted in truth, in the exertion of our sovereign authorities, in holding America accountable for honoring and fulfilling its promises, and in our cultural values and principles that reflect our special place and understanding of these sacred lands.

Throughout this year’s Native American Heritage Month (NAHM), in addition to our NAHM webpage that includes extensive information, we will be providing weekly offerings that highlight some key issues and the complexities of our unique experience.

Learn more about Native American Heritage Month.