November is Native American Heritage Month, which recognizes the achievements and contributions of Native Americans. It also celebrates the rich and diverse cultures, traditions, and histories of Native people. The seeds for this month long celebration harken back to 1916 when New York celebrated the first American Indian Day. This followed an effort by Red Fox James, a member of the Blackfeet Nation, who rode horseback from state to state seeking approval for a day to honor Native Americans. Although he got endorsements from 24 state governments, there is no record of a national day being proclaimed. A national celebration was finally established in 1990 when President George H. W. Bush approved a joint resolution designating November 1990 “National American Indian Heritage Month.”
Book Suggestions:
- Sweetest Kulu by Celina Kalluk, illustrated by Alexandria Neonakis; Recommneded for baby to age 2
- Fry Bread by Kevin Noble Maillard, illustrated by Juana Martinez-Neal; Recommended for ages 3-6
- Jingle Dancer by Cynthia L Smith, illustrated by Cornelius Van Wright and Ying-Hwa Hu; Recommended for ages 4-8
- The Christmas Coat: Memories of My Sioux Childhood by Virginia Driving Hawk Sneve, illustrated by Ellen Beier; Recommended for ages 4-8
- Hiawatha and the Peacemaker by Robbie Robertson, illustrated by David Shannon; Recommended for ages 4-8
- The Apple Tree by Sandy Tharp-Thee, illustrated by Marlena Campbell Hodson; Recommended for aged 5-8
- Sharice's Big Voice by US Congresswoman Sharice Davids with Nancy K. Mays, illustrated by Joshua Mangeshig Pawis-Steckley; Recommended for ages 5-9
Online Resources: