A Story Older Than All of Us: Native American & Alaskan Heritage Month

November is a month to remember those who came before and those who continue the traditions and history that were embedded into the land. November is Native American and Alaskan Native Month. A Seneca archaeologist by the name of Dr. Arthur C. Parker, voiced recognition for Native Americans. In 1990 President George H.W. signed and designated November as Native American and Alaska Native Heritage Month. New York was the first to recognize the month in 1916. 

One of many marks that Native Americans had was the American Indian Movement, also known as AIM, which was created to voice Indigenous rights. This movement was founded in 1968 in Minneapolis, Minnesota. At first, this movement was about police brutality and racial profiling, which drove the motive even further. This moment would mark one of many high-profile protests and acts of civil disobedience in history. AIM’s purpose did not stop at protests, but its purpose was to uncover the dark horrors and lies behind the relationship between the American government and Native Americans. 

Pictured above is the flag for the American Indian Movement (AIM).

Besides the history behind these acts, we should learn about the important Native Figures whose history will live on within their tribes. First, Chief Geronimo, Bedonkohe Apache Leader. Geronimo was Chief of the Bedonkohe band of the Chiricahua Apache tribe. He was best known for being fearless and more for being a fighter that wreaked havoc. His motives of vengeance on Mexican troops were a response to the deaths of his family. He did eventually surrender and ended up being a prisoner of war in Florida. Unfortunately, Geronimo was never allowed to return home and died at a hospital in 1909. Next, Chief Joseph led the Wallowa band of Nez Perce. He was known for being an advocate for his people and their right to stay in their homeland. But in 1877, Chief Joseph and his people were forced off their land. At first, they didn’t agree with this idea, which led to violence. The chief led hundreds of his people, many of them being women and children, as well as US troops over a 1,300-mile stretch. They were rejected for help, but in 1877 Chief Joseph and his band surrendered and ultimately won their freedom. However, many Nez people died, including five of Chief Joseph’s children. After that, he was never allowed back home and died of natural causes.

In conclusion, this time of year represents a part of a story that is older than all of us. We should take some time and educate ourselves on this side of history. Many of us may not be Native American, but a lot of our ancestors certainly were.