Celebrating National American Indian Heritage Month
Abstract
November has been designated National American Indian Heritage Month to honor American Indians and Alaska Natives by increasing awareness of their culture, history, and, especially, their tremendous contributions to the United States military. Native Americans have the highest record of service per capita when compared to other ethnic groups. Planning this annual event can be a challenge. The Federal Register of 13 March 2000 lists 556 federally recognized tribes, additional tribes are recognized at state level. Installation planning for American Indian Heritage Month should incorporate cultural traditions and history specific to Native Americans of the area, patriotism of Native Americans who have served and are serving in the military (particularly those who have served or trained at that installation), and current accomplishments of Native Americans in service to the country. Department of Defense American Indian and Alaska Native Policy provides excellent guidelines for incorporating Native Americans into governmental programs, supporting government-to-government relations, and expanding their job and economic opportunities. Fort Polk's highly successful celebrations of American Indian Heritage Month generated ideas for expanding educational opportunities, consultation process, and positive interaction with the Caddo Nation and other Louisiana tribes.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Feb 01, 2004
- Accession Number
- ADA422567
Entities
People
- Diane K. Mann
- James Grafton