Native American Heritage Month

Every November America celebrates National Native American Heritage Month recognizing the contributions of Native Americans to this country. We also celebrate Thanksgiving, where we gather together with a focus on thankfulness. This same date is shared with National Day of Mourning, a day of gathering in remembrance and protest at continued oppression of Native Americans.

In 2020 there was a town forum on the Native American imagery on the Arlington High School seal (which has now been changed). When asked about how to talk to our kids, a local Algonquin parent and an Arlington High School student answered the same: Be honest. While there is tragedy in our collective history, our kids deserve and can understand the truth. The good news is, there is also a lot to be celebrated.

For younger kids, it is important to show them positive and accurate images. Much of Native American history and identity is left out of the mainstream, while their imagery is harmfully exploited.

1. Look for books and media that:

   • Are written or illustrated by Native people. #OwnVoices

   • Include information about the nationhood status of Native peoples.

   • Are set in the present day.

   • Are tribally specific-- there are more than 500 native tribal nations in the US!

2. Learn about the Wampanoag from modern kids: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SmisO7pdMW4

For older kids, you can have deeper discussions with them about

1. Thanksgiving:

   1. The Wampanoag Side of the First Thanksgiving Story

   2. 8 Ways to Decolonize and Honor Native Peoples on Thanksgiving

2. Sovereign nationhood status-- Tribal sovereignty refers to the right of American Indians and Alaska Natives to govern themselves, and preserve their heritage, culture and identity.

   1. What is Tribal Sovereignty?: https://youtu.be/L2SiuV_X_ys

   2. It is currently under threat. Read about it here.

3. Point out things that are problematic and how we can work to change them, like:

   1. The use of Native American mascots by the state’s public schools (a law to ban them is on the Massachusetts Legislative Agenda, but has not yet been passed).

   2. Talk about 38 Ways to Support—Not Appropriate From—Native People!

Thank you for having courageous conversations!