November is Native American Heritage Month.
Across IU's campuses, individuals are celebrating the work and cultures of Native and Indigenous communities bringing the contemporary Native experience to the forefront. A month-long schedule of events, activities, and programming on IU's campuses aims to help people learn about and honor Native communities, cultures, and traditions with the Indiana University community.
"I encourage the IU community to approach this month, and all months of the year, as an opportunity to engage with contemporary Native and Indigenous communities and seek to build deeper partnerships and engage in collaborative work," says James Wimbush, vice president for diversity, equity, and multicultural affairs and Johnson Chair for Diversity and Leadership.
"The events and special programs held this month and throughout the year are designed to build a more inclusive and supportive community for Native and Indigenous students on campus as well as to educate the broader IU community."
Efforts to acknowledge the achievements and contributions of Native Americans date back to as early as 1916, when New York became the first state to declare an "American Indian Day."
In 1976, as part of the nation's bicentennial commemoration, S.J. Res. 209 authorized President Gerald Ford to proclaim October 10-16 as "Native American Awareness Week." In 1986, Congress passed S.J. Res. 390, requesting that the president designate November 23–30, 1986, as "American Indian Week."
A month-long recognition of Native Americans did not occur until 1990 when President George H.W. Bush signed a joint congressional resolution designating November as National American Indian Heritage Month. The observance has since expanded to celebrate the heritage, history, art, and traditions of American Indians and Alaska Natives.
Visit IU's events calendar for events and programs celebrating IU's Native American Heritage Month.
In addition, campus communities have access to a wide variety of digital tools, including Zoom backgrounds, social profile images, and Snapchat filters, to further support Native American Heritage Month.
Access digital tools and learn more about NAHM at diversity.iu.edu.