November is Native American* Heritage Month. It’s a time to celebrate the rich culture and history of Native Americans. While the contributions, accomplishments, and culture of Indigenous communities should be acknowledged and celebrated every day, this month provides a time to renew your focus on learning. We’ve compiled a list of ways to help get you started celebrating this Native American Heritage Month, including ones that specifically focus on the Pottawatomi, Ottawa, and Ojibwe (Chippewa) tribes whose ancestral lands make up southeast Michigan.
*Native American Heritage Month is the title used in official government proclamations for the month and therefore the purpose of this blog. However, it is important to acknowledge that some members of the community prefer the usage of other terms such as Indigenous, First Nations, etc. The best practice is to use specific tribal names, but this is not always possible. For more information read The Impact of Words and Tips for Using Appropriate Terminology.
Explore Native Heritage
- 2023 Robert J. Berkhofer Lecture: Angeline Boulley (Sault St. Marie Chippewa) at the University of Michigan on November 2
- Native American Heritage Month Educator Workshop at the DIA on November 11
- Stories and Dances of the Ho-Chunk Nations at the DIA on November 18
- Drawing in the Galleries: Native American Galleries at the DIA on November 24
Learn About Native History
- Library of Congress Resources
- National Museum of the American Indian Online Exhibitions
- Visit the Nokomis Learning Center
Buy From Native American-Owned Business
- Native American-Owned Businesses in Metro Detroit and Ann Arbor
- 24 Indigenous and Native-Owned Businesses To Shop this Holiday
- 8 Businesses to Support this Native American Heritage Month
- Native Wonders Gifts & Gallery – A family-owned and run gallery in Windsor, the owner is of Odawa descent.
Native-led Organizations to Support
- First Nations Development Institute
- National Indian Child Welfare Association
- Native American Rights Funds
- Native Ways Federation
Other Ways to Support
- Research Native American history and culture in your community.
- Read Native literature.
- Support Native artists and musicians.
Most importantly keep learning and reflecting and remember that the challenges Native communities face are ongoing, not just history. Incorporate anti-racism and anti-colonialism into everyday action, not just during Native American Heritage Month.
