Celebrating Native American Heritage Month at ΒιΆΉ΄«Γ½ City University
ΒιΆΉ΄«Γ½ City University proudly honors Native American Heritage Month, a time to pay tribute to the vibrant cultures and invaluable contributions of Native and Indigenous communities. This month invites us to further explore the rich tapestry of Native American heritage and reflect on its profound impact on our lives today.
Acknowledging Our Place
Historically inhabited by the Comanche, Kickapoo, Kiowa, Osage, and Wichita tribes, ΒιΆΉ΄«Γ½ City University recognizes the significance of this heritage. Acknowledging Native American Heritage Month not only celebrates cultural richness but also highlights the complex history of land theft and displacement. With ΒιΆΉ΄«Γ½ housing a significant Native population in the U.S., this observance resonates deeply within our community.
The Journey to Recognition
Native American Heritage Month trace back to 1916, evolving from "American Indian Day" to "Native American Awareness Week." It wasn't until November 4, 1990, that President George H. W. Bush officially designated November as National American Indian Heritage Month, illuminating the need for broader recognition of Indigenous peoples across the nation.
Key Dates to Remember
Throughout November, consider the following:
Rock Your Mocs Week (Nov. 10-16): A celebration where Native Americans wear moccasins as a symbol of cultural pride and identity.
Red Shawl Day (Nov. 19): This poignant day raises awareness about the alarming rates of violence against missing and murdered Native American and Alaska Native people. Wearing red serves as a powerful reminder of the lives lost to violence.
Engaging with Culture
This month offers countless opportunities to engage with Native American culture:
Explore Art and Literature: Dive into films, books, and music that showcase Indigenous voices and stories.
Visit Museums: Discover the rich history of Native Americans through local exhibits.
Learn About Tribal Lands: Use resources likeβ―β―to understand the significance of the land we inhabit.
Why It Matters
Native American Heritage Month is more than just a celebration; it's a chance for all of us to honor the resilience and contributions of Indigenous communities. It encourages us to reflect on historical injustices while promoting education about contemporary issues facing Native peoples today. By embracing this month-long observance, ΒιΆΉ΄«Γ½ City University reaffirms its commitment to cultural awareness and inclusivity. Together, letβs celebrate the diverse life experiences that enrich our university, state, and nation!
Local Events
ODEI Tabling celebrating Native American Heritage Month: 11:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. Nov. 1, at the Student Lounge
Ittahoba Festival 2024: 10:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. Nov. 1, @ Choctaw Event Center Durant, OK
89th Annual American Indian Exposition: Oct. 30 - Nov. 2 at Caddo County Fairgrounds Anadarko, OK
Will Rogers Day Festival: Oct. 31 - Nov. 3 @ Will Rogers Memorial Museum Claremore, OK
Choctaw Pow Wow 2024: Nov. 1 - 3 @ Choctaw Event Center Durant, OK
OK Justice Circle Breaking Bread with the Indigenous Community: 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Nov. 12 @ the First Americans Museum
Caddo Festival: Nov. 24 @ the First Americans Museum
Cheyenne Ledger Artists of Fort Marion Exhibition: throughout Jan. 5, 2025 @ the National Cowboy Museum
Painted Feathers Kit (Registration closes Nov. 1st): Nov. 1 - 8 @ Metropolitan Library Downtown
Work Cited:
βRock Your Mocs.β Rock Your Mocs, .
Indian Affairs (IA). βNational Native American Heritage Month | Indian Affairs.β Indian Affairs (IA), .
U.S. Senate: Celebrating National Native American Heritage Month. 25 Oct. 2023, .
Native American Heritage Month | Multi-Ethnic Student Affairs (MESA),
Red Shawl Day Remembering Missing and Murdered Native American Women - Events - League of Women Voters of Arapahoe and Douglas Counties, .
Native American Heritage Month - NPS Commemorations and Celebrations (U.S. National Park Service). .
Wearing Red Shawls to Bring Awareness for Missing and Murdered Indigenous Peoples (U.S. National Park Service), .
