Aimed to provide a platform for Native people in the United States of America to share their culture, traditions, music, crafts, dance, and ways and concepts of life, in August 1990 President George H. W. Bush declared the month of November as National American Indian Heritage Month. Referred to as Native American Heritage Month, several areas in the United States federal government, including The Library of Congress, National Endowment for the Humanities, National Park Service and Smithsonian Institution as well as schools and people observe the month with ceremonies and activities. There are more than two million Native Americans in the United States today and over 500 federally-recognized tribes. While there is vast diversity among the American Indian community, there is much to celebrate in their contributions to our nation. The Library of Congress notes:
Both law and proclamation recognized the American Indians as the first inhabitants of the lands that now constitute the United States as well as making mention of their contributions to American society:
Many of the foods we eat and the medicines and remedies we use were introduced by Indians and more than one highway follows an Indian trail. Indians make contributions in every area of endeavor and American life, and our literature and all our arts draw upon Indian themes and wisdom. Countless American Indians have served in our Armed Forces and have fought valiantly for our country.
To learn more about Native American Heritage Month visit:
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Native_American_Indian_Heritage_Month
https://nativeamericanheritagemonth.gov/about/
http://www.ncai.org/initiatives/native-american-heritage-month
https://www.indianaffairs.gov/as-ia/opa/national-native-american-heritage-month