By JULES ACUNA

America, the “melting pot” of the world, embracing many cultures and heritages, recalls the original inhabitants of the United State by making November Native American Heritage Month, or Indigenous Peoples’ Month. The month celebrates the heritage and history of many different Native cultures, including Alaskan Natives, Hawaiian Natives, and the many nations like Cherokee, Keetoowah and Navajo to name only a few. 

Originating in 1990, November Native American Heritage Month began once President George W. Bush approved a resolution to celebrate Indigenous Peoples during the month of November. 

Heritage months, of any region, are important as they give everyone the opportunity to inform themselves of other cultures to not only break stereotypes but share the things that represent them. 

Not only is November NAHM  month, but Nov. 26 is Native American Heritage day. November, often being associated only with Thanksgiving, brings attention to Indigenous cultures all over with the help of many different associations.

For instance, according to the National Park Service website, the National Park Service offers resources and learning opportunities for visitors and for teachers to share. 

Highlighting resources and the visibility of the many cultures helps break stereotypes about Native Americans, sharing with the public the rich culture, community and heritage. 

Unfortunately, Native American culture is underrepresented in many media forms, whether that be in books, films or television. According to the Cooperative Children’s Book Center, School of Education, in 2018 less than 1% of childrens characters in books depict First Nations, whereas 50% were white.

With Native American Heritage Month, indigenous communities are seen and highlighted, helping to begin to counteract stereotypes and discrimination.

Infographic bringing light to the ongoing struggles for Native Americans to get accurate and positive representation in the media and curriculums. Infographic created using Canva. (JULES ACUNA/ Ethic News image)