Celebrating Native Heritage Month 2023
Each November, Multicultural Affairs’ Native Student Program, leads the celebration of Native Heritage Month alongside students, faculty and staff. With more than 574 federally recognized Indigenous nations within the United States, each hosting their own distinct traditions, languages and customs, Native Heritage Month is a time to pause and recognize the rich diversity of the Indigenous people across Turtle Island. Events further amplify Indigenous innovation, celebrate Native communities and educate people surrounding contemporary issues.
“The campus community is invited to learn about and participate in these cultural expressions, build connections across communities and by doing so, help work to ensure Indigenous history and contributions remain part of America’s story,” says Bailey Tlachac, program coordinator of the Native Student Program, and lead for Native Heritage Month. “The month also serves as a foundation to further awareness of ongoing challenges within our communities and strengthens Indigenous advocate voices working for change. A direct result of joining the work of fostering a cultural understanding, is the closing of educational gaps.”
Events throughout Native Heritage Month further honor rich and diverse cultures, traditions and histories, while acknowledging Indigenous resilience, revitalization and the important contributions of Native people.
Event highlights include the following, with a complete list available on the Native Heritage Month webpage.
- Tuesday, Nov. 14, 3-4 p.m.: Belonging on Campus Panel
- Tuesday, Nov. 28. 5-8 p.m.: Closing Ceremony Social Dance
- Wednesday, Nov. 29, 6-8 p.m.: FriendsGiving
Making History: Grand Opening of Native Student Program 113 Euclid Avenue
On Monday, Nov. 6, from 2 to 4 p.m., the grand opening of 113 Euclid Ave. will further celebrate the “home away from home” for Native students, the Native Student Program and the gathering place for those who are interested in exploring Native American culture and history. Highlights include a ribbon cutting ceremony, guided tours, historical reflection and more. Please complete the event RSVP to attend.
Story by Student Experience communications intern Esteban Quiñones ’24, S.I. Newhouse School of Public Communications
