Happy Native American Heritage Month!

We observe Native American Heritage Month in November to recognize the achievements and contributions of Native Americans. We celebrate the remarkable diversity of American Indian peoples while remembering and honoring our veterans who have sacrificed so much to defend our Nation.

It is also a time to educate others with pride, that Indigenous peoples are the holders of unique languages, knowledge systems, and beliefs, and possess invaluable knowledge of practices for the sustainable management of our natural resources.

Additionally, Indigenous and Native communities have shown resilience, perseverance, and strength amid challenges like displacement and cultural suppression. We certainly must celebrate our successes, our heritage, and our culture, as well as who we are as a people.

We should, likewise, take a moment to recall the obstacles we have overcome. Our ancestors’ courage and strength were tested as they faced countless obstacles and overcame unimaginable challenges; they deserve to be honored.

Below is one such fact that was intended to separate us from who we are. Our ancestors’ courage and resilience were tested as they faced countless obstacles and overcame unimaginable challenges. While very costly, we persevered and “we are still here…”