This year marks the 33rd year of the establishment of National American Indian Heritage Month. Signed into existence during the George H. W. Bush administration, the measure designated November as the month in which the United States would “pay tribute to the rich ancestry and traditions of Native Americans.”
At the University of Utah, the American Indian Resource Center will lead efforts observing the splendid history and contributions of Indigenous peoples throughout the nation’s past.
“Native Heritage Month is a national platform that raises awareness about the unique challenges our Native people have experienced in the present but also historically,” said AIRC Program Manager Tashina Barber. “Although this proclamation was signed into law, Native Americans have been celebrating their heritage for hundreds of years through kinship, through their language, ceremony, dances, and traditions that are carried on today.”
“For those who are not of Native descent, it is also a chance to engage in some of that dialogue and reflection,” she said. “It’s a great opportunity for reflection for our Native citizens as well as allies who step forward wanting to invest in elevating and creating visibility for American Indians.”
She added that the educational process should not be limited to the month of November but extend throughout the year. Barber noted that annually the university has done a credible job hosting various events over the academic year that create “conversations, inquiry, and learning” opportunities for individuals on and off campus.
“It’s that cross-cultural experience between different groups that provides opportunities for increased understanding for allies and others interested in becoming better informed about Native heritage and culture,” Barber said. “It’s important, especially at the University of Utah, because we continue to grow Native student enrollment in that presence here.”
Over the years, Native tribes in Utah and across the country have had to contend with significant challenges that have created obstacles to educational and economic growth for Indigenous communities. Native American Heritage Month is an ideal time to learn more about the historic institutionalized discrimination that has affected so many for so long, Barber said.
In addition, November is a time to celebrate the breakthroughs happening currently that offer promise for a brighter future for Native students in the Beehive State.
“We are really trying to ensure that we celebrate some of those milestones that are inspiring stories,” she said. “An example of some of the good stories we have here at the institution are about how we are serving our Native students and increasing enrollment. That’s a celebration worth talking about.”
Barber said while there is no specific theme for this year’s National Native American Heritage Month, the AIRC would like everyone in the U diaspora to move forward being mindful of the humanity that exists within every individual, whether they are Native or some other background or culture. Explore the Native American Heritage Month calendar for a list of events occurring this month.
“We all should strive to continue fostering a greater sense of community where we all feel like we belong,” Barber said.
The Native American Heritage Month planning committee is responsible for arranging events in coordination and collaboration with campus and community partners.
Members include:
