In 1990, a joint resolution was approved by President George H.W. Bush, which called for November to be named National Native American Heritage Month. Native American Heritage Month started as a single day of appreciation and acknowledgment for the unique contributions made by the first Americans for the growth and establishment of the United States. Eventually it grew to become a monthlong observance.
The Presidential proclamation states that “we take time this month to celebrate Indigenous peoples past and present and rededicate ourselves to honoring Tribal sovereignty, promoting Tribal self-determination, and upholding the United States’ solemn trust and treaty responsibilities to Tribal Nations.” Throughout the month we explore the heritage, culture and experience of Native American peoples both historically and in American life today.
Since Time Immemorial
The State of Washington passed legislation in 2015 requiring the Since Time Immemorial: Tribal Sovereignty in Washington state or other tribally-developed curriculum be taught in all schools. The use of the Since Time Immemorial curriculum has been endorsed by all 29 federally recognized tribes.
The Bellevue School District land acknowledgement states: The Bellevue School District acknowledges that we learn, work, live and gather on the Indigenous Land of the Coast Salish peoples, specifically the Duwamish and Snoqualmie Tribes. We thank these caretakers of this land, who have lived and continue to live here, since time immemorial.
To learn more about Native lands, visit the Native Lands site which seeks to map Indigenous lands in a way that changes, challenges and improves the way people see history and the present day.
Resources to Learn More:
Those wishing to learn more about local tribes may visit state tribal museums or Federally Recognized Indian Tribes in Washington.
Access Native American Heritage Month resources.