November is National Native American Heritage Month, also known as American Indian and Alaska Native Heritage Month. The month was designated by President George W. Bush in 1990.
The month celebrates and honors the history, culture, and contributions of Indigenous peoples across the nation.
In Wisconsin, there are 11 federally recognized Native American tribes across the state. According to the World Population Review, 2.14% of America’s population identifies as American Indian or Alaska Native. In Wisconsin, 1.78% of the state’s population identifies as such.
Here are some ways you can help celebrate and support Indigenous peoples in Wisconsin.
- Native Community Celebration: The Urban Indigenous League is hosting a community celebration at the Potawatomi Wgema Campus on Saturday, Nov. 22.
- Native American Heritage Month Specials: Potawatomi Hotel and Casino will offer food specials all month for a taste of Native culture.
- Teejop & Beyond: The Madison Public Library and Ho-Chunk Gaming Madison will host various artists, storytellers, and community leaders throughout the month to celebrate Indigenous people.
- Ukwakhwa: Hands-On Corn Pounding and Haudenosaunee Foodways: On Nov. 13, Oneida Nation citizens Becky and Steve Webster of Ukwakhwa will host an event for individuals to learn about Indigenous food sovereignty and hands-on corn pounding.
- Woodland Indian Art Show and Market: From Nov. 21-23, Woodland Indian Art Inc. will host its annual art show and market that brings together native artists from around the U.S. and Canada.
- Learn about Ojibwe Language and Culture: The Chippewa Falls Public Library will host a program on Nov. 13 about the cultural history of Ojibwemowin and the efforts to revitalize the language.
- Astronomy of Native America: Hawthorn Hollow Nature Sanctuary & Arboretum will host multiple presentations from UW-Parkside students on the various astronomical beliefs from Indigenous groups.
