By Makayla Rosales, Coordinator, Opportunity & Impact
Average reading time: 3 minutes
Native American Heritage Month is an annual celebration in November to come together and honor the traditions, cultures, and histories of Native American, Alaska Natives, and Native Hawaiian communities.
This observance began with a powerful goal to recognize the first Americans whose contributions helped shape and build the nation. In May of 1916, “American Indian Day” was first declared, laying the foundation for broader recognition. It wasn’t until 1990 that the George H.W. Bush administration officially designated November as Native American Heritage Month, giving this important celebration a permanent place on the national calendar.
Texas itself is home to three federally recognized tribes living on reservations: the Alabama-Coushatta, Tigua, and Kickapoo. The state’s history also traces back to many other tribes, including the Caddo, Comanche, Kiowa, Tawakoni, and Wichita, who originally called North Texas home. By recognizing and learning from these communities, we honor not only their enduring legacy but also the foundations they laid for the society we share today.
Engage in the workplace
A meaningful way to engage in Native American Heritage Month in the workplace is by creating opportunities for learning and connection. Consider inviting Native American speakers, artists, or scholars to share their experiences and cultural traditions through panel discussions or fireside chats. These conversations can explore themes such as tribal history, cultural preservation, and the lasting contributions of Native communities to society. To extend this learning beyond a single event, organizations can also build a shared resource hub featuring books, films, podcasts, and articles by Native authors and creators, encouraging employees to continue deepening their understanding throughout the year.
Attending local events is a meaningful way to engage with and learn from the Native communities around you. Participating as a team, whether by inviting colleagues to join you or organizing a department-wide outing, can strengthen connections while deepening appreciation for the rich cultures and histories that have shaped our nation. And while Native American Heritage Month offers a special opportunity to celebrate and reflect, it’s important to remember that appreciation shouldn’t end in November. Continue building long-term relationships with Native communities and finding ways to include Indigenous perspectives in your workplace year-round.
Attend an event
If you are interested in bringing your team, friends, or family to local festivities celebrating Native American Heritage Month, here are some local events:
Art in the Style of… RC Gorman-6-7:45 p.m. Wednesday, Nov. 19, at Oak Lawn Auditorium at the Oak Lawn Branch Library, 4100 Cedar Springs Rd. Dallas, TX, 75219
See the special edition of Art in the Style of…, by exploring the vibrant, expressive world of R.C. Gorman, often called the “Picasso of American Indian artists.” Known for his bold use of color and graceful depictions of Indigenous women, Gorman’s work radiates strength, beauty, and cultural pride. In this hands-on session, participants will create their own artwork inspired by his iconic style, using pastels and vivid hues to capture movement and spirit.
Worldwide Passport: Indigenous People-Ella Mae Shamblee– Friday, Nov. 21, at Fort Worth Public Library, 1062 Evans Ave. Fort Worth 76104
Travel the world without leaving Fort Worth. Learn customs and traditions, play cultural games, and try crafts inspired by the different indigenous groups within the continent.
Crafternoon: Beaded Corn Cobs– 2-3 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 22, at Forest Green Branch Library, 9619 Greenville Ave. Dallas, TX 75243
Honor Native American Heritage Month by learning about the significance of corn to Indigenous American culture and history. Make your own colorful corn cob to represent this important crop.
Indigenous Storytelling– 11 a.m.-12 p.m. Nov. 29, at Forest Green Branch Library, 9619 Greenville Ave. Dallas, TX 75243.
Experience a performance blending movement, literary elements, and videography as you learn about Indigenous culture, history, and experiences.
Other November holidays to celebrate
November is a month that is dedicated to remembrance, gratitude, and community. Veterans Day, observed on Tuesday, Nov. 11, is a time for us to pause to honor the men and women who have served our nation with courage and dedication. Their sacrifices safeguard the freedoms we enjoy every day, reminding us of that service to others is one of the highest forms of gratitude. Later in the month, Thanksgiving is on Thursday, Nov. 27, offering an opportunity to count our blessings, express appreciation, and extend kindness to those around us. Together, these November observances remind us of the enduring values of service, gratitude, and connection that unite us as a community.