National American Indian Heritage Month

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  • 72nd Air Base Wing Public Affairs

November is National American Indian Heritage Month, recognizing American Indians for their respect for natural resources and the Earth, having served with valor in our nation's conflicts and for their many distinct and important contributions to the United States.

Each year the president of the United States issues a proclamation in recognition of the observance. This year’s theme is: Affirming Native Voices: Visibility – Leadership – Service.

The observance has its roots in Public Law 99-471. Over several years the observation was moved to different months but in 1990, Public Law 101-343 set the month-long observance in November.

This commemorative period pays homage to the traditions, languages, and stories of Native American, Alaska Native, Native Hawaiian, and affiliated Island communities, ensuring their rich histories and contributions persist through the ages.

The Tinker Inter-Tribal Council works with Tinker Air Force Base to cultivate Native American heritage, culture, and awareness with the support of base leadership and senior advisors assigned to the TIC.

To learn more about National American Indian Heritage Month, visit the DEOMI website: https://www.deomi.mil/Special-Observances/#national-american-indian-heritage-month

For more educational information, you can also visit the below educational sources:

US Department of Interior of Indian Affairs: https://www.bia.gov/
US Department of Health and Human Services- Indian Health Service: https://www.ihs.gov/index.cfm?module=About
National Endowment for the Humanities EDSITE: https://edsitement.neh.gov/teachers-guides/american-indian-history-and-heritage