National American Indian Heritage History Month


October is National American Indian Heritage History Month. Red Fox James, part of the Blackfoot tribe, demonstrated gallant efforts in his commitment to bringing the national observant to the forefront. He rode on horseback from state to state to seek support. James’ efforts in 1914 were noticed, and in 1915 Dr. Author C. Parker of the Seneca tribe convinced the Boy Scouts Of America to appoint a special day to recognize the Native American Indians.

In 1916, New York became the first state in the United States to recognize American Indian Day. Other states learned of the news and followed in adopting a specific date to show honor, too.

In 1976, the United States Senate granted approval for the President to designate October 10-16 as Native American Awareness Week, and in 1990 the observance became an entire October month of celebration.

Observance and celebration are expressed in a Pow Wow, Native American people coming together to sing, dance, and renew and preserve their heritage. Songs vary from war songs to social and religious ones, but they all serve to remind them of their ancestry and inheritance. The exciting event of colorful pageantry and dance is planned for weeks, as the committee coordinates the special affair.

Traditionally, the Pow Wow begins with the grand entry of all of the people in the arena. Everyone is asked to stand as the U.S., tribal, POW flags –- along with Eagle staffs from numerous tribes -– come forward. Then Tribal Chiefs, Princesses, Elders, Pow Wow staff, men dancers, and women dancers are recognized. Songs, prayer, and dancing. It’s a tremendous time!

But, sad to say, there have been and are misconceptions about the Native American Indian population. Some of these are as follows:

Headbands were not typical tribal dresswear. They were worn to shade their faces.

Teepees were not common to all tribes. They were only used by some tribes.

Bows and arrows were used by some tribes in hunting, but they were not used by all tribes. A variety of tools were used in hunting and for protection.

October, National American Indian Heritage History month. Celebrate! Rejoice! Attend a Pow Wow. Join in their observance. Come!

The copyright of the article National American Indian Heritage History Month in Traditional Holidays is owned by Mary Cox-Bilz. Permission to republish National American Indian Heritage History Month in print or online must be granted by the author in writing.

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