Native Americans and their history are the roots of America. They have been a part of America’s history dating back almost 20,000 years. November is American Indian and Alaska Native Heritage Month, also known as Native American Heritage Month. It’s a month to celebrate the rich and diverse culture of Native Americans that has been celebrated legally since 1990.
“Definitely the awareness that Indigenous cultures are not just a people of the past and that not just the history, tradition of the past, they’re still a very relevant group as far as they contribute presently to our modern day society,” English teacher Jennifer Hankins said.
Native American history may be taught in the classroom and can be read in history textbooks. But, what we can do to celebrate and be actively involved. According to Hankins, you can support local tribes.
“I often see events that help promote the Chumash, whether it’s storytelling or an event that promotes their history,” Hankins said.
The Chumash Indian Museum in Thousand Oaks is a historic site dedicated to restoring and preserving an awareness of the Chumash people and is open to the public. A brand new Chumash Museum in Santa Ynez is opening in 2024, a 14,000-square-foot facility with over 20,000 cultural objects. These museums are historically sound and a great way to educate yourself about local tribes.
Attending storytellings, seminars, or land acknowledgments are all amazing ways to show appreciation and support for local tribes this month.
“The land acknowledgment rock outside Oak Park High School’s main office is a really cool thing to see everyday and attending the ceremony this time last year was really amazing,” senior Ava Dermott said.
Physically attending ceremonies and events is not the only way to educate yourself this month.
“Reading literature too, whether its present-day authors, indigenous authors, or even education through the arts and music, can be effective,” Hankins said. “Educate yourself always because it’s very important to celebrate this month.”
