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National Native American Day

Honor the rich histories and traditions on National Native American Day! A day dedicated to the first inhabitants of our vibrant land.

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When it is?
October 14
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Category
Appreciation
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Country
United States
Creator
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Founded

Introduction

Who's ready to celebrate the rich histories, diverse cultures, and important contributions of our nation's original inhabitants? That's right, this excerpt is dedicated to the powerful traditions remembered on National Native American Day, which occurs on October 14. What began in 1915 as American Indian Day by the Boy Scouts of America, has evolved into a national day of celebration, honored by more and more states each year, as they join to honor the cultural legacy and impact of Native Americans. The day is a tribute to the great history and continuing presence of Native American tribes, a chance for all of us to reflect and recognize their valuable contributions and the vibrant communities that still exist today. So mark your calendars, and get ready to celebrate the vibrant tapestry of Native American culture!

History of National Native American Day

National Native American Day Timeline

<div class='timeline-item'><div class='timeline-left'><div class='timeline-date-text'>1915</div></div><div class='timeline-center'></div><div class='timeline-right'><div class='timeline-text timeline-text-title'>American Indian Day Established</div><div class='timeline-text'>The Boy Scouts of America designates the first American Indian Day to celebrate Native American culture and contributions.</div></div></div><div class='timeline-item'><div class='timeline-left'><div class='timeline-date-text'>1989</div></div><div class='timeline-center'></div><div class='timeline-right'><div class='timeline-text timeline-text-title'>California Leads the Way</div><div class='timeline-text'>California becomes the first state to designate an official state holiday, Native American Day, celebrated annually on the fourth Friday in September.</div></div></div><div class='timeline-item'><div class='timeline-left'><div class='timeline-date-text'>1990</div></div><div class='timeline-center'></div><div class='timeline-right'><div class='timeline-text timeline-text-title'>National Recognition Expands</div><div class='timeline-text'>President George H.W. Bush signs a proclamation designating November as National American Indian Heritage Month, expanding national recognition.</div></div></div><div class='timeline-item'><div class='timeline-left'><div class='timeline-date-text'>2007</div></div><div class='timeline-center'></div><div class='timeline-right'><div class='timeline-text timeline-text-title'>South Dakota Changes Columbus Day</div><div class='timeline-text'>South Dakota becomes the first state to officially change Columbus Day to Native American Day, celebrated on the second Monday in October.</div></div></div><div class='timeline-item'><div class='timeline-left'><div class='timeline-date-text'>2016</div></div><div class='timeline-center'></div><div class='timeline-right'><div class='timeline-text timeline-text-title'>Growth in Statewide Observance</div><div class='timeline-text'>Additional states, including Vermont and Phoenix, Arizona, choose to celebrate Indigenous People's Day in place of Columbus Day, honoring Native American history and culture.</div></div></div><div class='timeline-item'><div class='timeline-left'><div class='timeline-date-text'>2021</div></div><div class='timeline-center'></div><div class='timeline-right'><div class='timeline-text timeline-text-title'>Increasing Nationwide Awareness</div><div class='timeline-text'>National Native American Day is becoming more widely recognized as a day to honor and learn about Native American cultures, histories, and contemporary issues.</div></div></div>

How to Celebrate National Native American Day

<div class='facts-item'><div class='facts-header'><h3 class='facts-number'>1</h3></div><div class='facts-text-wrapper'><h3 class='facts-title'>Explore Native American Art</h3><p class='facts-text'>Consider taking some time to explore the vibrant and diverse forms of Native American art. Visit a local museum, gallery, or event that features Native American artists. Appreciating the rich artistic heritage of these cultures is a great way to mark the day.</p></div></div><div class='facts-item'><div class='facts-header'><h3 class='facts-number'>2</h3></div><div class='facts-text-wrapper'><h3 class='facts-title'>Attend a Powwow</h3><p class='facts-text'>Powwows are important cultural events that showcase the music, dance, and spirit of Native American people. Look for local powwows in your area - they are colorful celebrations that everyone can enjoy.</p></div></div><div class='facts-item'><div class='facts-header'><h3 class='facts-number'>3</h3></div><div class='facts-text-wrapper'><h3 class='facts-title'>Support Native American Businesses</h3><p class='facts-text'>One meaningful way you can celebrate is by supporting Native American-owned businesses. This could be restaurants, boutiques, or online retailers. Your support helps to ensure the continued vitality of these communities.</p></div></div><div class='facts-item'><div class='facts-header'><h3 class='facts-number'>4</h3></div><div class='facts-text-wrapper'><h3 class='facts-title'>Read a Book by a Native American Author</h3><p class='facts-text'>Dive into the rich literature of Native American authors. There are many talented writers to choose from, whether you are interested in fiction, non-fiction, poetry, or young adult literature.</p></div></div><div class='facts-item'><div class='facts-header'><h3 class='facts-number'>5</h3></div><div class='facts-text-wrapper'><h3 class='facts-title'>Educate Yourself</h3><p class='facts-text'>Education is an important part of celebration. Use the day to learn more about Native American history, culture, and contributions to society. There are many documentaries and educational resources available online.</p></div></div>

Why National Native American Day is Important

<div id='' class='whywelove-item'><div id='' class='whywelove-letter-cont'><div class='whywelove-letter'>A</div></div><div id='why-we-love-main-cont'><h3 id='' class='whywelove-title'>It's a celebration of rich histories and diverse cultures</h3><p id='' class='whywelove-text'>National Native American Day is a time to honor the diverse cultures, traditions, and histories of Native American peoples. It's a significant day of remembrance and recognition, aiming to promote understanding and respect for Native American heritage, and to acknowledge their important contributions to society.</p></div></div><div id='' class='whywelove-item'><div id='' class='whywelove-letter-cont'><div class='whywelove-letter'>B</div></div><div id='why-we-love-main-cont'><h3 id='' class='whywelove-title'>It's an opportunity to educate ourselves</h3><p id='' class='whywelove-text'>This holiday offers a timely chance for every one of us to learn more about the history, culture and accomplishments of Native American peoples. Through literature, art, and other educational resources, we can gain increased awareness and deeper understanding of their vibrant heritage.</p></div></div><div id='' class='whywelove-item'><div id='' class='whywelove-letter-cont'><div class='whywelove-letter'>C</div></div><div id='why-we-love-main-cont'><h3 id='' class='whywelove-title'>It's a way to support Native American communities</h3><p id='' class='whywelove-text'>Not only does celebrating National Native American Day give us an opportunity to appreciate the art, history, and culture of Native Americans, but it also provides us with an opportunity to directly support them. By attending local events, patronizing Native American-owned businesses, and promoting Native American literature, we can help sustain these vibrant communities.</p></div></div>

5 Intriguing Facts for National Native American Day

National Native American Day FAQs

National Native American Day Dates

Year
Date
Day

2023

2024

2025

2026

2027