November is Native American Heritage Month
Native American Heritage Month is an invitation to learn about and honor Native American cultures. It is also known as American Indian and Alaska Native Heritage Month. There is so much diversity and rich culture to explore this month!
Each of us has an ethical responsibility to learn about Native history even if it may be challenging. Because understanding the challenges will help us address bias and avoid perpetuating harm. Many of us in the United States may not have learned about Native American history accurately. So, this month reminds us to open our minds and expand our knowledge.
One way to honor Native Americans is to learn about the Native history of the land you occupy. And then you can create a land acknowledgement. For example, where I live in Minnesota, the land once belonged to the Dakota People. This important practice helps us pay respect and reflect on the people that originally lived on the land. Give it a try. A quick online search will help you find easy resources to use.
- Live Online Training
- Wednesday, January 29, 2025
- 2:00 pm to 3:30 pm Central Time
- FREE for YIPA members
American Indian, Native American, Indigenous, or Native?
Being Native means different things to each individual.
And there are many terms that are acceptable when referring to Native people. But whenever possible, the most respectful approach is to ask a person what their own preference is.
When referring to a group, you might wonder if there is a difference between the words tribe and nation. While those terms are similar and can be used interchangeably, bear in mind that the term tribe often evokes stigmas that are not respectful. The term nation acknowledges the sovereignty of Native communities. But if you're unsure, it's most respectful to use the term those community members prefer.
In the United States, the term Native American has been widely used. But it is falling out of favor with some groups. Now, many Native people prefer to be referred to as American Indian or Indigenous American.
Honoring Native Heritage
Whether you are aware that you serve Native young people in your programs or not, learning about Native history, culture, and traditions will ensure you make your programs more inclusive.
- Start exploring the Native American Nations and Tribes in your area
- Read books by Native authors
- Attend or host cultural events near you
- Support Native artists, organization, and businesses
- Share what you have learned with others
- Lift up Native voices
As a youth worker you know how you show up is essential for young people to trust you. You show young people every day you value them. Therefore, you must show young people they are valued by increasing your cultural intelligence and honoring cultural differences.
More to explore
One thing I love about working with young people is how inclusive they are. We can learn so much from young people and follow their lead.
I found an amazing resource online that really uplifts youth voice. The Smithsonian’s National Museum of the American Indian has a collection of recorded webinars hosted by Native Knowledge 360°.
These youth voices will inspire and educate you.
YIPA also has a training called Honoring Indigenous Traditions for Youth Health and Wellbeing. It's free for YIPA members.
And check out The Passionate Youth Worker podcast with Ta'Shena Sams: Aambe Kinoomaadidaa - Come Let’s Work Together, Come Let’s Teach Each Other. Free for everyone.
About the author
Paul Meunier is the executive director of the Youth Intervention Programs Association (YIPA), a non-profit association of youth-serving organizations. We're your source for exceptional, affordable, personal and professional online learning via The Professional Youth Worker. Join us!
To ask Paul a question or share your feedback about this blog, email paul@yipa.org.
