If you didn’t know, November is Native American Heritage Month. While most of us probably learned the incorrect history of the first Thanksgiving in our kindergarten classes, November is a chance to educate ourselves on the past and current lives of Indigenous Americans. Especially for my fellow white people, while all year round is a necessary time to dismantle racism, now more than ever educational resources are at your fingertips. I’ve compiled a short list of some of the easiest ways to support Indigenous nations this November.
Learn The Past
There are numerous faults in the American education system that leave out the real history of Indigenous people in this country. That leaves us with the responsibility to do our own research. You can research the “Myth of Thanksgiving” to begin with. Then, I always recommend people use Native Land Digital’s interactive map to find the original owners of the land their town is occupying. Once you know the tribe whose land you live on, you can research their past. Here at Lasell, Audburndale was settled on Massa-adchu-es-et (Massachusett) and Pawtucket land. Additionally, there are numerous resources dedicated to Indigenous history. Smithsonian’s National Museum of the American Indian is just one.
Learn The Present
Frequently, people only learn about Indigenous tribes and nations as things of the past. However, Indigenous issues are as important today as ever. As you research the past, make sure you’re following current events. Native Land Digital helpfully links to the websites of many nations. The Massachusett tribe has a great website that has tons of information about their past, present, and future. The Wampanoag tribe, who are commonly included in the first Thanksgiving story, has numerous websites for each territory. The website for the Mashpee Wampanoag Tribe has some great information on their current events.
As I write this there is a major event happening that will affect Indigenous people nationwide. The ICWA or Indian Child Welfare Act is being scrutinized and decided on by the supreme court. The ICWA protects the adoption and fostering of Indigenous children and assures their welfare. Many Indigenous people are opposed to the overturning of the ICWA and are fighting to protect it. Here is an Instagram account, article, and petition that all give helpful information on the situation and steps you can take to help stop the overturning.
Put Your Money Where Your Mouth Is
Finally, while educating yourself is great, taking action is what really pushes change. One of the best ways to do this is monetary. If you have the ability to donate look to tribal websites that often have donation options, nonprofit foundations, or mutual aid funds for individuals. You can also buy from Indigenous-owned and operated companies for the holiday season or year-round.
Most importantly, don’t just listen to this one white girl. Find Indigenous voices around you, online, and worldwide. Listen to them and help take action.