National Native American Heritage Day
National Native American Heritage Day:
Celebrated annually on the Friday after Thanksgiving Day as a civil holiday in the United States. Also known as American Indian Heritage Day it recognizes the native American heritage, history, and contributions. Some states recognize this day as a legal holiday or observance.
Year | Date | Day | Where |
2020 | 27th November | Friday | United States |
2021 | 26th November | Friday | United States |
2022 | 25th November | Friday | United States |
Twitter Hashtags:
#NationalNativeAmericanHeritageDay
#NativeAmericanHeritageDay
Why National Native American Heritage Day?
In the United States today, Native Americans contribute tremendously in the military, medical and legal fields. Be it art or government, war, or peace, their insights, and perspectives are unmatched. Their knowledge has won many battles!
To mention a few of the influential Native Americans:-
Carol Metcalf-Gardipe – Geologist
She is a professor, administrator, and an award-winning geologist who held positions with the U.S. Geological Survey, National Oceanic Atmospheric Administration.
Deb Haaland
Representative Haaland was elected to Congress in 2019 from New Mexico’s 1st District.
Emory Sekaquaptewa – Anthropologist
Hopi linguist, anthropologist, scholar, educator, artist, and appellate court judge, Emory Sekaquaptewa is best known for developing the first Hopi language dictionary.
Master Sgt. Woodrow W. Keeble
In 2008, Keeble became the first full-blooded Sioux Indian to receive the Medal of Honor. During a battle in the Korean War, his actions saved the lives of fellow Soldiers.
Native Americans and their traditions and values have inspired the ideals of self-governance and determination that are the framework of the present-day USA.
Preservation of ecology was a core aspect of every Native American community. They never killed or used anything that wasn’t for their survival. They didn’t hunt for sport. They lived in harmony with nature. Therefore, during this day, people are encouraged to honor the natives, by strengthening their ties with the ecosystem.
There are numerous Native American tribes in the United States, who are unknown to most Americans; the media, or state organizations that ignore their relevance. Hence this celebration qualifies the importance of commemorating those who existed before the European colonists invaded. It’s relatively unknown that various aspects of American life, such as agriculture, sports, and politics amongst others, originated from these tribes and were taught & passed on to the pilgrims and settlers.
While the past cannot be undone, this day is celebrated in the hope of creating a brighter future, paving the path of progress and friendship across the entire American landscape.
Moreover, its an endeavor to right the wrongs inflicted on the indigenous people whose identities and lands were invaded & snatched by foreign agents. It is a worldwide call to tolerance and coexistence even with a past that reeks of tragedy.
How can we observe National Native American Heritage Day:
National American Heritage Day activities, programs, and ceremonies are commemorated to promote the historical and present-day status of Native Americans and the Native American tribal governments.
The day also encourages public elementary and secondary schools to educate students about the history, achievements, and contributions of Native Americans by providing classroom instructions and activities.
Few ways to celebrate National Native American Heritage Day:-
- Read a story about or by a Native American.
- Visit one of many Native American museums, heritage centers, or historical sights. Share your experience on social media using hashtags #NationalNativeAmericanHeritageDay and #NativeAmericanHeritageDay
- Try a scrumptious Native American recipe.
Pemmican
Algonquin Wild Nut Soup
Posole with Red Chile
- Watch a movie or documentary about or by a Native American.
- Participate in or watch a game of Lacrosse.
- Attend one of many seminars, performances, or events honoring Native American culture across the country.
Interesting Facts about National Native American Heritage Day:
- Arthur Caswell Parker, a Seneca Indian, who was the director of the Museum of Arts and Science in Rochester, New York during the 1900s convinced the Boy Scouts of America to celebrate a day for the “First Americans” and for three years they set aside such a day.
- In 1914, Red Fox James, a Blackfoot Indian rode on horseback from state to state & sought endorsement for the National Native American heritage day.
- The Black Friday and the National Native American Heritage Day are celebrated on the same day. This has brought in criticism as the much commercialized Black Friday steals the limelight with minimal recognition for the latter.
- The month of November is recognized as the Native American Heritage Month to honor and recognize Native Americans as the first people of the nation and to celebrate both their cultural heritage and their relevance in the country’s past, present & future.
History Of National Native American Heritage Day:
In 2008 the Native American Heritage Day Act was enacted by Congress and signed by President George W. Bush on October 8, 2008. In 2009, President Barack Obama signed “The Native American Heritage Day Resolution,” designating the Friday after Thanksgiving as “Native American Heritage Day.”