Significance
Native American and Alaska Native Heritage Month is a national observance of the native communities who lived on the land before the creation of the United States as we know it today. This observance month is a time to highlight the contributions and beauty of the Native American and Alaska Native communities throughout November.
History
In 1900, efforts to celebrate the Native American community were led by Dr. Arthur Caswell Parker whose goal was to establish a day of honor for the Native American community. The first celebration and observance dates back to 1916, when the state of New York designated its first American Indian Day. On the national level, in 1976, President Ford proclaimed "Native American Awareness Week". In 1990, President Bush approved a joint resolution that designated November 1990 as "National American Indian Heritage Month".
Theme/Fast Facts
Theme: Due to the govermnent shutdown, there is not a current theme identified. The theme will be updated as soon as we have additional information. I
There are 574 federally recognized tribes.
There are 9.7 million Native Americans/Alaska Natives in the United States.
There are more Indigenous people in elected positions in the U.S. government than ever before.
39 tribes federally recognized in Oklahoma
Important Dates:
Nov. 2 鈥� National Bison Day
An annual celebration for the American Bison. The holiday celebrates the Bison and its role in native and tribal culture, as well as its essential and spiritual value.
Nov. 15 鈥� Rock Your Mocs day
A celebration where Native Americans are invited to wear their moccasins as a symbol of cultural pride and identity.
Nov. 19 - Red Shawl Day
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.
Nov. 29 - Native American Heritage Day
A day to honor and celebrate the Native American Alaska Native community.
How to celebrate:
Art: Learn about Native American and Alaska Native perspectives through film, literature, music, and curated exhibitions.
History: Learn about scientific breakthroughs, legislation, and navigation by the Native American and Alaska Native community, along with many other cultural contributions.
Community: Support Native American and Alaska Native businesses and attend local events that celebrate, uplift, and spotlight the Native American and Alaska Native community
Advocacy: Learn and work towards equality for the Native American and Alaska Native community through education, volunteering, and donating.
Visit the First Americans Museum in Oklahoma at 659 First Americans Blvd., 野狼社区, OK.
Local Celebrations:
Celebrate Native American Heritage Tabling: 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Wednesday, Nov. 5, 2025, at the Student Lounge (outside of The Caf)
Native American Heritage Month Business Spotlight 鈥� Redbone Indian Tacos: 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Wednesday, Nov. 12
FAM After Dark: 5 to 8 p.m. Friday, Nov. 7, First Americans Museum Oklahoma (Free)
Choctaw Nation Pottery Class at Southern Oaks Library: 2 to 4 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 15, Southern Oaks Library (Free)
Sources:
U.S. Department of Interior Indian Affairs | National Native American Heritage Month
Unites States Census Bureau | Native American Heritage Month Fun Facts
National Park Service | Native American Heritage Month
