Native American Heritage Awareness Month

November is recognized as Native American/Indigenous Heritage Month, which commemorates the achievements and influence of Native Americans in the United States.

One of the many proponents of a day recognizing Native American/Indigenous people was Dr. Arthur C. Parker, a member of the Seneca Nation, who requested that the Boy Scouts of America set aside a day for the "First Americans," which was accepted and practiced for three years. In 1915 in Lawrence, Kansas, the second Saturday of each May was deemed as an "American Indian Day." Various locations began to observe a similar day, but there was no national recognition. In 1990, President George H. W. Bush approved a joint resolution designating November 1990 "National American Indian Heritage Month." Similar proclamations under different names have been issued since 1994.

2020 Events and Programming

Diversity Dialogue Panel Discussion - "Honoring the Past and Ensuring the Future: Celebrating and Embodying Native American Heritage"

Date: November 12, 2020
Time: 11:30 am - 12:30 pm
Location: Virtual Presentation via Zoom (Register)

For this discussion, Lamar University welcomes panelists from Great Promise for American Indians, a nonprofit organization based in Austin, TX, which hosts the country's largest one-day powwow each year and whose mission is to preserve the traditions, heritage, and culture of Native Americans while supporting the health and education needs of their youth and families. Panelists will answer questions from students, faculty, and staff about their experiences and perspectives on Native American culture, heritage, and current issues.

 

Cultural Resources From Great Promise for American Indians

The Office of Global Diversity and Inclusive Excellence is excited and grateful to partner with Great Promise for American Indians, a nonprofit organization in Austin, TX, which hosts the country's largest one-day powwow each year. Great Promise has been extremely generous in sharing with our Lamar community a host of videos and resources showcasing Native American culture and heritage, including a presentation on Powwow traditions and crafting activities for you to follow along at home.

2021 Austin Powwow Promo

See footage from previous Austin Powwows and learn about the upcoming 2021 event.

Native American Dance - Powwow Traditions

In this video, Great Promise dancers demonstrate traditional and contemporary Powwow dances and dress, sharing their experiences and perspectives on preserving and continuing to celebrate Native American heritage through powwows and other cultural practices.

Craft Activity - Corn Husk Dolls

Join as Morgan Learn tells the story behind corn husk dolls and the process of how to make one. Materials are provided in the description, so you can even follow along at home.

Craft Activity - Dream Catcher

Watch as Amy Taulman discusses the meaning of the dream catcher and guides viewers through materials and steps for how to create one.