Native American Heritage Month and Contributions

 

Native American Heritage Month


National Native American Heritage Month is celebrated each year in November that began in 1990. It is a time to celebrate the traditions, languages and stories of the vi communities and ensure their rich histories and contributions continue to thrive with each passing generation.

 



On August 3, 1990, President of the United States George H. W. Bush declared the month of November as National American Indian Heritage Month.

 

Did you know: Native Americans and Alaska Natives (NA/AN) have made significant contributions to various aspects of life in the United States and beyond.

To name a few:

Culture and Art

  • Storytelling and Oral Traditions: Passed down knowledge, history, and morals through captivating oral stories.
  • Art and Craftsmanship: Intricate beadwork, pottery, weaving, basketry, and carvings with cultural significance.
  • Music and Dance: Traditional songs and dances are foundational in ceremonies and festivals.
  • Languages: Many native words have been incorporated into English, like "canoe," "hammock," and "moose."

Food and Agriculture

  • Agricultural Innovations: foods that are a staple worldwide- Crops such as corn, beans, squash, potatoes, and tomatoes.
  • Sustainable Practices: Developed techniques like crop rotation and companion planting.
  • Herbal Medicine: Pioneered the use of plants for healing purposes, many of which are still used in modern medicine.

Environmental Stewardship

  • Sustainable Living: Practices that emphasize harmony with nature and respect for natural resources.
  • Conservation Efforts: Led initiatives to protect sacred lands, wildlife, and water resources.

Science and Knowledge Systems

  • Astronomy and Navigation: Celestial patterns for agricultural and ceremonial purposes.
  • Medicinal Knowledge: Contributed to early pharmacology with remedies from plants and herbs.

Modern Contributions

  • Leadership: Native individuals have become leaders in politics, education, arts, and sciences.
  • Cultural Revitalization: Efforts to preserve languages, traditions, and cultural identities.
  • Contemporary Arts and Literature: Enriched American literature, music, and films with native perspectives.

Alaska Natives

  • Environmental Science: Provided valuable knowledge about Arctic ecosystems.
  • Engineering: Innovated tools and techniques for surviving harsh climates, such as kayaking and snowshoes.
  • Cultural Richness: Art forms like totem poles and storytelling contribute to cultural heritage.

NA and AN -contributions continue to influence and enrich U.S. society in diverse ways, showcasing the resilience and creativity of Native American and Alaska Native communities.


Comments

Post a Comment

Popular posts from this blog

Month of April Events

Image
April Events   FYI           Fruits and Vegetables – Month of April Strawberries   and Asian Pears Autism Awareness Month Public Health Week 3 rd – 9 th World Health Day 7 th National Sibling Day 10 th Passover 10 th - 18 th Easter Sunday 16 th Earth Day 22 nd Child Abuse Prevention Month Minority Health Month Sports Eye Safety Awareness Month Stress Awareness Month Infant immunization Week 22 nd – 29 th       Volunteer Week 23 rd – 29 th Employee Appreciation Week 23 rd – 29 TH Autism Awareness Month “We have a relative that has autism. He is exceptional and works well with his hands. Don’t Toss in the Towel! – Don’t Give Up! Get involved in autism awareness and National Public Health Week What is Autism?   Autism is a complex neurobiological disorder that typically lasts throughout a person's lifetime. Today, 1 in 150 individuals is diagnosed wi...
Read more

National Children's Dental Health Month

Image
  Month of February -  What's New and Events National Bun Day 21 st Play Tennis Day 23 rd National Tortilla Chip 24 th National Trading Card Day 24 th Chocolate Covered Nuts Day 25 th Tell –a- Fairy Tale Day 26 th Purim 26 th     No Brainer Day 27 th International Polar Bear Day 27th International Tongue Twister Contest Day 27 th Tooth Fairy Day 28 th National Science Day 28 th National Science Day is a national holiday in  India , which occurs on the 28th of February each year. To commemorate the discovery of the Raman Effect. On this day, Sir CV Raman had announced the discovery of the Raman Effect for which he was awarded the Nobel Prize in 1930. National Children's Dental Health Month        Go Red in February American Heart Month is the first Friday in February, this annual groundswell unites millions of people for a common goal: the eradication of heart disease and stroke. Black History Month   ...
Read more