November Is Native American Heritage Month

Above, during the summer months, the city of Gallup holds nightly Indian dances. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

November is Native American Heritage Month, in case you didn't notice.

It is well noted here in New Mexico as there are several tribes within the state. The Navajo Nation is checkered across Interstate 40 from me and many Navajos work in local businesses.

According to the Fort Hood Sentinel:

In August 1990, President George H. W. Bush declared November 1990 “National American Indian Heritage Month.” Since 1994, presidents have issued similar proclamations naming November “Native American Heritage Month” or “National American Indian and Alaska Native Heritage Month” and have set aside this month as a time to celebrate the culture and traditions of our Native Americans and Alaska Natives.  

As of January 2021, the United States recognizes 574 Native American Tribes, three of them located in Texas. Throughout our history Native Americans have made significant contributions to our armed forces, serving at the highest per-capita rate of any demographic in our country.  

During World War I, approximately 12,000 Native American men volunteered or were drafted in support of the war effort. Native American women supported the war effort at home as well, volunteering with the Red Cross and donating time and money. Four Native Americans received the Croix de Guerre from France.

During World War II, more than 44,000 Native Americans served in our armed forces, about 12% of the Native American population. Many Native Americans served as cryptologists, or “code talkers”, who used their native languages to send coded messages between units, creating an undecipherable communication method. During this time, Native Americans distinguished themselves by earning Air Medals, Distinguished Flying Crosses, Bronze Stars, Silver Stars and Medals of Honor.  

Above, the Navajo Code Talker statue in Window Rock, Arizona. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

To read more, go here.