November is National Native American Heritage Month, a time dedicated to honoring the history, culture, and contributions of Native American communities. At Big Spirit Inc., our goal is to help tribal organizations, tribal entities, and government agencies amplify their impact, and we’re equally passionate about celebrating and uplifting Indigenous voices. Here are some thoughtful ways to commemorate National Native American Heritage Month that can enrich your understanding and support Indigenous communities.
Read a Novel by an Indigenous Author
Literature offers a powerful window into American Indian perspectives, histories, and experiences. Authors like Louise Erdrich, Tommy Orange, Joy Harjo, and Sherman Alexie provide nuanced narratives that capture both the beauty and complexities of Native American life.
Whether you’re interested in novels, poetry, or memoirs, exploring works by Native American authors is a meaningful way to connect with Native storytelling and learn about diverse cultural perspectives.
Listen to a Podcast Hosted by an Indigenous Person
Podcasts by Indigenous hosts provide valuable insights on topics ranging from Native American rights and politics to art, culture, and language preservation. Shows like All My Relations, Toasted Sister, and Native Opinion offer listeners the opportunity to engage with American Indian perspectives on current events, social justice, and more. Subscribing and sharing these podcasts helps amplify Indigenous voices and creates a broader platform for their stories.
Support Native-Owned Businesses and Artisans
Shopping with Native-owned businesses and artisans is a direct way to support Native American communities. From handcrafted jewelry and art to wellness products and clothing, Native entrepreneurs offer a rich variety of goods rooted in cultural heritage. There are many websites to be found via search engines that feature authentic, responsibly sourced items that allow you to give back while honoring Indigenous craftsmanship.
Visit a Museum or Cultural Center
Many museums and cultural centers, including the National Museum of the American Indian in Washington, D.C., or local tribal museums, provide opportunities to explore Indigenous history, art, and traditions. Exhibits often feature cultural artifacts, art, historical documents, and personal stories that illuminate the resilience and contributions of Native Americans. If visiting in person isn’t an option, many institutions offer online tours and digital resources, making it easy to explore from anywhere.
Donate to Native American Organizations, Nonprofits, and Educational Initiatives
Supporting organizations that uplift American Indian communities can have a lasting impact. Consider donating to Native-led nonprofits and educational initiatives that focus on language revitalization, health, environmental protection, and cultural preservation. There are countless organizations that rely on donations to support their important work, promoting Indigenous sovereignty and well-being.
Cook an Indigenous-Inspired Meal
Food is a powerful connection to culture, and preparing an Indigenous-inspired meal can be a wonderful way to honor Native American traditions. American Indian chefs and food enthusiasts, like Sean Sherman (The Sioux Chef) and others, share recipes that spotlight Indigenous ingredients such as wild rice, bison, and heirloom corn. Preparing a meal based on these traditional ingredients can provide insight into Native culinary heritage, while also supporting the movement to reclaim Indigenous food systems.
Or, begin with just one recipe. We suggest this corn, blueberry, and wild rice salad.
Share Educational Resources and Art Online
Help spread awareness by sharing educational resources, art, and inspiring stories on social media. Highlight Native American artists, writers, and advocates in your network. Consider following Indigenous organizations, artists, and educators online to stay informed and amplify their work. From sharing a poem by an Indigenous poet to reposting information on language revitalization efforts, these actions can foster broader awareness and respect for Native American cultures.
Why Honor National Native American Heritage Month?
By participating in these suggested activities, we not only celebrate Native American Heritage Month, but we also deepen our respect and understanding of the resilience, creativity, and beauty within Indigenous cultures. We urge you to start with just one activity!
As an American Indian-owned company, Big Spirit encourages you to take this month as an opportunity to engage, support, and learn. Together, we can amplify Native American voices and honor their invaluable contributions to society.
