Native American Heritage Month, also known as American Indian and Alaska Native Heritage Month, takes place throughout November. It is a time to celebrate and recognize the vibrant and diverse cultures, histories, traditions, and significant contributions of Native American, Alaska Native, and Indigenous communities.
Let us take this opportunity to honor the resilience and enduring spirit of the original stewards of this land, who have shaped the character and fabric of our nation for thousands of years. As we celebrate the strength and survival of Native Nations, we also acknowledge the historical injustices, challenges, and intergenerational trauma that Indigenous communities continue to face. We are reminded of the importance of listening to and centering Indigenous voices to promote a more accurate understanding of their past and present realities.
Ashley Henhawk, New York Connects Outreach Specialist for the Seneca Nation, joined host Ernie Churchwell on a recent episode of WNYIL’s weekly podcast Independent Perspective to discuss Native American Heritage Month. Listen to the podcast at https://www.spreaker.com/episode/native-american-heritage-month-with-ashley-henhawk–68572010
If you are interested in learning about and appreciating the living cultures and contributions of Native American people, check out the following YouTube Videos:
Native American Heritage Month 2025, International Academy for Multicultural Cooperation. I Come Before You Prayer, by Chief Yellow Lark, Lakota Sioux Chief, 2025, 1:57 minute. https://youtu.be/IRPjJ2V9JaQ?si=RLmBniAdCvGcUHhk
Celebrating Native American Heritage Month, BBC My World, 2020, 4:23 minutes.
https://youtu.be/0HeCWUKoPRA?si=5PU80L6_QVxKT_AC