Celebrating Native American Heritage Month

11/29/2023

Carla Maia, Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Justice (DEIJ) Coordinator

Native American Heritage Month, observed in the United States during the month of November, is a time to celebrate and honor the rich and diverse cultures, traditions, histories, and contributions of Native American and Indigenous peoples. This commemorative month serves as an opportunity for education, reflection, and raising awareness about the significant role Indigenous communities have played and continue to play in American society. Read more about Native American Heritage in California, and our Diverse Reads author spotlights on Native American authors, Christine Day and Monique Gray Smith.

California is one of the most culturally diverse regions for Native American tribes in the United States, each with their own unique languages, traditions, and ways of life. It is estimated that there were over 100 distinct tribes in California before European contact. Some well-known tribes include the Miwok, Chumash, Ohlone, Pomo, Hupa, and many others. Despite the immense challenges brought on by colonization, many California tribes have persisted and maintained their cultural traditions. They have demonstrated remarkable resilience in the face of adversity.

Today, many California tribes are recognized as sovereign nations by the federal government. This recognition allows them to exercise a degree of self-governance and maintain their cultural practices. Many tribes are actively working to pass on traditional knowledge to younger generations and revitalize their cultures. Native American communities in California have made significant contributions to the state's culture, art, and history. Their art, basketry, beadwork, and storytelling traditions have had a lasting impact on the region. Various cultural events and powwows take place throughout California, providing opportunities for both Native and non-Native people to learn about and celebrate the rich heritage of the indigenous peoples.

Native American Heritage Month is just one part of many ongoing efforts to recognize and address the unique challenges and contributions of Indigenous peoples in the United States. To find out more about past and present contributions of Native Americans in the United States check out the Smithosian’s National Museum of the American Indians website.

You can also read more from these Native American authors, spotlighted this month as part of our Diverse Reads series:

Christine Day

Christine Day is a Native American author, well-known for her Middle Grade and Young Adult books. Christine is part of the Upper Skagit tribe and her writing often explores themes related to identity, culture, and the experiences of Indigenous people. Her work has been well-received for its exploration of these important themes and for its representation of Indigenous voices in literature.

One of her most notable books is "I Can Make This Promise," which was published in 2019. This novel tells the story of a young girl named Edie who discovers a mysterious family history and grapples with her own Indigenous identity.

Another of her incredible books is “The Sea in Winter”, which introduces us to Maisie, a Native American (Makah and Piscataway) girl struggling with mental health after an injury that threatens her dream of becoming a professional ballerina.

You can find these beautiful stories and many other books by Native American authors in our EB Library. If you’d like to know more about Christine Day’s work check out her website https://www.bychristineday.com/.

Monique Gray Smith

Monique Gray Smith is a renowned Canadian children’s and YA author and speaker known for her work in the fields of children's literature and Indigenous wellness. She is of mixed heritage, with Cree, Lakota, and Scottish ancestry. Her books often focus on themes related to Indigenous culture, identity, and reconciliation. They also explore complex issues with sensitivity and compassion, aiming to foster understanding and empathy among readers, particularly children.

You can find several of Monique Gray Smith’s books in our library (in English and French) like “My Heart Fills With Happiness” (J'ai le coeur rempli de bonheur), “When We Are Kind / Nihá'ádaahwiinít'́įįgo” (Nous sommes gentils), and “I Hope / Nipakosêyimon”. These books are filled with stories of love, joy and hope along with the power of family and community.

To learn more about Monique Gray Smith’s books and her work head to her website https://www.moniquegraysmith.com/ .

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