What is Native American Heritage Month?

  • Published
  • By Chap. (Capt.) Jason Raines
  • 14th Flying Training Wing Chapel
COLUMBUS AIR FORCE BASE, Miss. --  Native American Heritage month started at the turn of the century with hopes to recognize and highlight the significant contributions of the first Americans.

It has grown from its initial one day of recognition into a whole month dedicated to the education and celebration of our Native American culture. The Boy Scouts of America were the first group to set aside a special day of observance under the direction of Dr. Arthur Parker. Later, in 1915, Rev. Sherman Coolidge issued a proclamation to the country, which declared the second Saturday of May as "American Indian Day."

Seventy-five years later, in 1990, President George H.W. Bush approved a joint resolution designating November as "National Indian Heritage Month" which changed in 1994 to "Native American Heritage Month."

We celebrate this month every year because of legislation, but in reality our entire CAFB family has ties to Native American culture. It is believed that Native Americans actually settled in North America around 8,000 B.C., making them the first group to inhabit what is now the United States. After a revolt against Great Britain, people began to move west from Europe to occupy this unknown, already inhabited land. After several wars and political movements, colonies began taking Native American land and calling it their own. Then, on May 26, 1830, President Andrew Jackson signed the Indian Removal Act authorizing state officials to relocate Native Americans westward, creating what we now know as the "Trail of Tears"; this caused great pain and anguish forcing Native Americans to find new sources of survival.

Native Americans have been misrepresented through stereotypes and through other media such as movies. Native Americans are rich in culture and diversity and are often not given credit for their struggles to settle and provide for the first European settlers. They provided buffalo meat, maize, and even the calumeta (peace pipe) to offer aide to our forefathers in need. They were skilled in the bow and arrow and the tomahawk as they struck fear into the hearts of their enemies. In fact, we will soon celebrate Thanksgiving, which commemorates the first Autumn harvest that Pilgrims shared with Native Americans.

With the exception of immigrant groups, most Americans have genealogical ties to Native American heritage. This month is designed to educate, inform and honor Native Americans for their contribution to our country and way of life. If you look closely, you might find that this month is designated to honor you.