Human Rights Committee
- November 1 marks the beginning of Native American Heritage Month in the United States. This tradition dates back to the early 20th century when various organizations and state governments began adopting proclamations to celebrate American Indian Day.
- If you’re curious to dive deeper into Native American Heritage Month, check out the links below to learn about the incredible achievements of Native Americans and find events happening this month.
- Show your support by wearing a Native American Heritage Month AFA Pin all month long! If you need a pin, reach out to your Local Council for the details.
November 1 marks the beginning of Native American Heritage Month in the United States. Also known as National Native American Heritage Month, this celebration originated from efforts to recognize an American Indian Day in the early 20th century. In 1916, New York became the first state to officially proclaim American Indian Day following a declaration from its governor.
The first national recognition of this heritage month occurred in 1976 when President Gerald Ford signed a proclamation designating Native American Awareness Week. Then, in 1990, President George H.W. Bush approved a resolution recognizing the first National American Indian Heritage Month. Since 1994, this recognition has continued with similar proclamations issued each year, often under different names, including Native American Heritage Month and National American Indian and Alaska Native Heritage Month.
Learn More About Native American History
You can learn more about the accomplishments of Native Americans through some of the dedicated websites and resources below.
- Library of Congress – Native American Heritage Month
- National Archives – Native American Heritage Month
- National Endowment for the Humanities – American Indian History and Heritage
- National Park Service – Native American Heritage Month
- Smithsonian Institution – National Museum of the American Indian
- Alaska Air Group Native Employee Network (NEN) – Team AAG (AAG sign-on required)
Celebrate with a Native American Heritage Month AFA Pin
In 2021, the AFA Executive Board unanimously approved a resolution recognizing Native American Heritage Month. As part of this initiative, a unique commemorative pin was created for AFA members to wear throughout the month.
For more information about the pin itself, don’t hesitate to get in touch with your Local Human Rights Committee. If you need a pin, please reach out to your LEC Officers to find out how to get one.
Questions?
If you have any questions, please contact your Local Human Rights Committee.
