November 29 National Native American Heritage Day #NativeAmericanHeritageDay

National Native American Heritage Day is observed on November 24th, a day after Thanksgiving. American Indians are accorded special honor on National Native American Heritage Day, and their rich cultures, accomplishments, contributions, and heritage are celebrated.

The history of America begins with Native Americans, and the Bald Eagle on the U.S. shield is an Iroquois symbol. On National Native American Heritage Day, we can enjoy displays of their cultural fashion and unique recipes and speak out against the grave injustices they have experienced.

Dr. Arthur C. Parker of the Seneca Nation first protested for National Native American Heritage Day between 1912 and 1915. At first, he was fighting for an “American Indian Day” to be recognized within the Boy Scouts of America.

In 1990, President George H. W. Bush signed into law the legislation introduced by Congressman Joe Baca, to designate the day after Thanksgiving as American Indian Heritage Day. The law was established on November 28th as a day to pay respects to the Native Americans for their numerous contributions to the United States. The American Indian Heritage Day was supported by the National Indian Gaming Association (NIGA) and 184 federally recognized tribes.

The Native American Heritage Day encourages Americans of all backgrounds to appreciate the indigenous cultures appropriately, with ceremonies and activities. Schools are also encouraged to enhance their students’ awareness of Native Americans by providing classroom activities focused on their history, contributions, and achievements.

The United States House of Representatives initially passed the Native American Heritage Day Act of 2009, with technical adjustments made by a collective consent in the United States Senate. The House of Representatives unanimously voted to pass the legislation again, including the Senate’s adjustments. The legislation was then signed into public law by President Barack Obama on October 30, 2009.

Native American Heritage Day and Month is a huge platform for Indigenous people to educate Society about their communities. On National Native American Heritage, more than ever, they lead the discourse on Culture, celebrate their heritage by donning traditional footwear the Moccasin, and shed some light on the diverse tribal communities.

How to Observe Native American Heritage Day

Take the time today to watch movies about Native American’s and there culture.
If you have the opportunity take a tour of a Native American Museum or Heritage Center near you.
Participate on Social Media or in online events observing Native American Heritage Day.
if your on TikTok’s check out #NativeFamily which is a famous Native American Heritage Community.
Choose a Native American meal to make. Try Three Sisters Soup, Pemmican, or simple Buffalo Stew. Native American Meals are famously delightful, so try out some of their recipes and don’t forget to share with your friends and family.

Facts About Native Americans

Did you know Native Americans consider the age of 31 as middle age.
Only 8% of Native Americans over 25 have a graduate or professional degree.
American Indians and Alaska Natives own about 24,503 businesses in the U.S.
As of 2020, the number of federally recognized Indian tribes equals 574.
The giant Redwood Tree is named after the Cherokee leader Sequoyah, who helped develop the Cherokee alphabet.

Why Native American Heritage Day is Important

We learn and are inspired by how tribal citizens have synergized to conquer these challenges, and we hear these stories from the Natives themselves. Native American Heritage Day is the perfect chance to educate the public, to raise awareness about the unique challenges Native people have faced, past and present.

Native American Heritage Day is a day to honor and recognize the indigenous people’s contributions to the United States because an official holiday enlightens people on how to do this right.

We take part in the rich and diverse art, culture, and tradition of the Native people. Native American Heritage Day allows us to bask in the beauty and uniqueness of their heritage, experiencing its multifaceted nature.

Thank you,

Glenda, Charlie and David Cates