Since 1990, America has recognized November as National American Indian Heritage Month or Native American Heritage Month for short. This past year, the Trump Administration released a presidential proclamation making November the “National American History and Founders Month.” Although our nation’s leader may not acknowledge North America’s original residents, I do- and so should you. Here are some of the ways to celebrate Native American Heritage Month:
Visit some cool museums and heritage sights around Ohio
Fort Ancient Earthworks (Lebanon)
Serpent Mound (Peebles)
Hopewell Culture National Historical Park (Chillicothe)
Sun Watch Village (Dayton)
Ohio History Center (Columbus)
The Great Serpent Mound (pictured above). Image from Ancient Origins.
Read some amazing Native American Literature
Authors like Joy Harjo, Sherman Alexie, Charles Eastman, Tommy Orange, and Louise Erdrich are great options for this month and beyond.
Patronize Native artists, businesses, and charities
While my boyfriend was on a work trip to Seattle last week, he brought me home the best gift: an Eighth Generation pin. The tagline on the back of the pin reads, “Thank you for supporting inspired natives, not native-inspired.” Beyond Buckskin is an amazing retailer with tons of cool stuff. They also provide a list of Native-owned businesses, so you know exactly who you’re buying from- and if they are legit.
Do not buy from retailers that culturally appropriate
There are many companies that do this, but recently Urban Outfitters has gotten in trouble over this (rightfully so). Ruth Hopkin’s article, which inspired me to write about Native American Heritage Month, mentions Urban Outfitters’ appropriation. I think that we need to just consume logically- if it doesn’t feel right, don’t buy it.
Similarly, don’t wear spiritually/historically/culturally significant items for decoration. You can see many people wear warbonnets at Coachella or dress up as “Sexy Pocahontas” for Halloween. Besides it being extremely cringey and blatantly ignorant, it’s offensive.
Support Native women and their ongoing battle for human rights and equality
According to a study from the National Congress of American Indians Policy Research Center, 84.3% of Native women have experienced violence and 56.1% have experienced sexual violence. These numbers are absolutely unacceptable. Ashley Heavy Runner Loring is one of many Native women who have disappeared or been murdered in the recent years. Many have yet to receive justice. Marie Claire has an informative article that describes the crisis going on.
Ashley Loring Heavy Runner (pictured above). Image from ABC News.
Be socially mindful
One of the simplest things you can do to celebrate Native American Heritage month is listen. I feel like in this political climate, the concept of listening is non-existent. The ability to listen to others, especially those who have/are experiencing systematic oppression, is a necessity.
You can also show support and get informed by following some advocate groups and figures on social media. Ruth Hopkin’s article mentioned some great accounts like @NativeApprops, @apihtawikosisan, @agnauraqtweets, and her own Twitter- @RuthH_Hopkins. Engaging in media like National Native News, Native Opinion Podcast, and APTN News are great ways to get educated.
Remember Thanksgiving in an honest way
From a young age, we are taught about Thanksgiving in a sugar-coated, revisionist history, incorrect way. We each heard a variation of the same story- the pilgrims and “Indians” had a huge feast to celebrate prosperity. The whole tale is factually incorrect and should be eradicated from the dinner table this Thanksgiving. If you would like to have your facts ready to combat bigots during the holidays, check out this article.
All of the ways to celebrate Native American Heritage Month extend beyond the 30 days of November. Cultural observance and appreciation is a lifetime celebration, not *really* a monthly one. Remember, we are #strongertogether.