November Is National American Indian Heritage Month

Since 1990, November has been recognized as National American Indian Heritage Month. The observance has been designated to create and promote a better understanding and appreciation for American Indian cultural heritage by recognizing and acknowledging their contributions and achievements. The theme for 2008 observance is “A Vision for Native Communities: Health, Education and Economic Opportunities.”

The strength of this nation comes from its people. As the early inhabitants of this great land, the native peoples of North America played a unique role in shaping our nation’ and its history and culture.

The first Americans, American Indians and Alaskan Natives have made remarkable contributions to our national identity. Their unique spiritual, artistic, and literary contributions, together with their vibrant customs and celebrations, enliven and enrich our land. When the first Europeans arrived on this continent, they did not find an empty land; they found instead a land of diverse people with rich and complex systems of government, languages, religions, values, and traditions that continue to shape and influence American history and heritage.

The National Park Service celebrates the contributions of American Indians on a daily basis through the preservation, maintenance and interpretative themes of more than 67 sites that focus on the stories and legacy of their significant historical contributions – and many more sites where native customs, heritage, and involvement in historical events is an important element of a complex legacy.

From the Miccosukee of the Big Cypress National Preserve, FL, to the Tlinget of Sitka National Historical Park, AK, and including inspiring parklands such as Canyon de Chelly National Monument and Badlands National Park, located wholly or partly on tribal lands, the National Park Service has been entrusted with a Native American legacy that enriches all who are touched by the heritage these parks and their resources reflect.

Our cultural diversity is a strength to be highly valued and honored by all of us. I ask all employees of the National Park Service to join in observing National American Indian Heritage Month by participating in programs and observances that are taking place in your areas. Our observances should be used to promote understanding, appreciation, and knowledge of the ingenuity, creativity, cultural and political experiences of American Indians and their contributions to this Nation. 

[Click on "More Information" below for a copy of President Bush's proclamation on National American Indian Heritage Month]