Leadership

Celebrating National Native American Heritage Month

By Shyrie Joyner

Honoring the First Voices of America

National Native American Heritage Month, observed every November in the United States, is a time dedicated to recognizing the rich histories, diverse cultures, and enduring contributions of Native American, Alaska Native, and Native Hawaiian communities. It is also a time of reflection — an opportunity to honor Indigenous resilience, acknowledge historical injustices, and celebrate the vibrant traditions that continue to shape the nation today.

History Rooted in Recognition

Efforts to establish a time to honor Indigenous people date back more than a century. In 1915, Dr. Arthur C. Parker, of the Seneca Nation of New York and director of the Museum of Arts and Science in Rochester, New York, urged the Boy Scouts of America to set aside a day for “First American.” In 1990, President George H. W. Bush officially designated November as National American Indian Heritage Month, now widely known as National Native American Heritage Month.

This month serves not only as a celebration but also as a reminder to preserve and understand Indigenous history — a history that long predates the founding of the United States.

Celebrating Culture and Contributions

Native Americans have enriched every part of American life. In government and democracy, the United States Constitution was influenced by the Iroquois Confederacy’s democratic governance system. Many city and state names come from Indigenous languages, including Chicago, Oklahoma, Dakota, and Mississippi.

Indigenous agricultural science gave the world corn, beans, squash, potatoes, and tomatoes, shaping  global food systems. Indigenous communities continue to lead in land preservation, sustainability, and ecological protection in environmental stewardship.

Arts and literature influence pottery, beadwork, poetry, film, and music. Indigenous creators carry forward storytelling traditions that connect generations.

Acknowledging the Past

While November is a time of celebration, it is also a time of truth-telling. Native American communities continue to face challenges linked to historical trauma — forced removal, broken treaties, cultural erasure, and boarding schools that attempted to strip Indigenous children of their heritage.

Recognizing these truths is essential. National Native American Heritage Month encourages deeper understanding, respect, and ongoing dialogue about sovereignty, treaty rights, and Native American-led self-determination.

Ways to Honor and Support Indigenous Communities

Learn more about National Native American Heritage Month by exploring authentic Native American history beyond textbooks. Support these communities by buying from Indigenous-owned businesses, artists, and authors. Amplify voices and perspectives by listening to those in the community. Visit tribal museums, cultural centers, and historical sites. Research and recognize the Indigenous land where you live to gain historical knowledge.

Looking Forward

National Native American Heritage Month reminds us that Indigenous history is American history and Native American futures are American futures. Indigenous traditions, languages, and cultural systems are alive and evolving, carried forward through strength, pride, and cultural continuity. Honoring Indigenous people is not limited to one month — it is a year-round commitment to understanding, respect, and inclusion.

Shyrie Joyner

Shyrie Joyner is based out of Greenville, South Carolina. Currently, she works at OB Hospitalist Group in the Revenue Cycle Department as the manager of payor enrollment.