November is a crucial annual alternative to pause and replicate on the wealthy cultural heritage, enduring traditions, and profound contributions of America’s indigenous peoples. As a trainer with Apache tribal heritage, I created this record of Native American Heritage Month actions to assist fellow educators foster in our college students higher respect, empathy, and appreciation for our nation’s indigenous roots.
Since the US was constructed upon the ancestral lands of various tribal nations, it’s essential that we take time to honor their legacy by Native American Heritage Month. We will present respect to the unique stewards of this land we now all occupy by acknowledging the colourful cultures, perception methods, and lived experiences of the indigenous individuals who have known as these areas house for millennia.
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What’s Native American Heritage Month?
President George H.W. Bush signed a joint decision in 1990 to designate November as Native American Heritage Month. Throughout this month, all People are invited to deepen their understanding and appreciation of Native communities throughout the nation. This commemoration gives a devoted likelihood to teach ourselves, amplify Native voices, and discover significant methods to help tribal sovereignty and self-determination. Whether or not it’s attending cultural occasions, studying works by Native authors, or studying about our arts and tradition, that is the time to honor the primary folks of this nation and guarantee their rightful place within the nationwide narrative.
Earlier than You Get Began: Necessary Word From the Writer
As you rejoice Native American Heritage Month along with your college students, listed here are some essential ideas for approaching Native traditions and actions with the respect and reverence they deserve.
Respect the depth of Native traditions
As you search to study extra concerning the wealthy cultural heritage of our Native folks by Native American Heritage Month actions, it’s essential to strategy this exploration with a deep sense of respect and reverence. Native tradition will not be merely costumes or gimmicks to be donned for a fleeting pattern—they symbolize historical, dwelling traditions which are profoundly private to our households and our lifestyle. These practices and beliefs have been handed down by generations, carrying the burden and knowledge of the ancestors who got here earlier than. They don’t seem to be to be handled evenly or superficially, however slightly with the understanding that you’re being welcomed right into a world of profound non secular and communal significance.
Have interaction with curiosity and humility
When you’ve gotten the chance to interact with Native customs, whether or not by attending a neighborhood occasion or reaching out to a tribal group, strategy it with an open coronary heart and thoughts. Reasonably than assuming you realize or perceive, be ready to hear and study. Ask considerate questions, be receptive to teachings, and take part with real curiosity and humility. Do not forget that these traditions are usually not mere performances however dwelling, respiration expressions of id, connection, and legacy. By doing so, you honor the resilience and perseverance of our folks, who’ve endured centuries of upheaval and but proceed to maintain our lifeways alive.
Hunt down genuine cultural celebrations and connections
As you navigate this journey of discovery, preserve a watch out for cultural celebrations and gatherings happening in your space. Powwows.com is a superb useful resource for occasions happening everywhere in the Native nation. These occasions provide invaluable alternatives to immerse your self within the sights, sounds, and spirit of Native communities. And if attainable, search out direct connections with native tribes, who can give you probably the most genuine and significant insights into their histories, traditions, and modern experiences.
Native American Heritage Month Actions
Thanks for taking an curiosity in who we’re and what we’re all about. Have enjoyable and be protected with these Native American Heritage Month actions!
Warrior Up! Energetic Native American Heritage Month Actions
A warrior must be sturdy, skillful, and sharp. There are numerous methods to coach the thoughts, physique, and spirit. Are your college students keen to place themselves to the take a look at and take part these enjoyable but difficult Native American Heritage Month actions? Come on then, it’s time to warrior up!
1. Hoop Dancing
The Hoop Dance is one among many types of dance that originated as a therapeutic dance. The story tells us that every time the dancer passes by their hoop, a day is added onto the lifetime of the sick particular person they’re dancing for. All the pieces from the shapes they create with their the hoops to the number of wooden is fastidiously thought-about on this sacred dance.
Right now, the dance has grown in reputation and is now practiced all all through the Native nation. Hoop Dance competitions have additionally helped unfold curiosity on this specific dance. The head of the Hoop Dance contests is the World Hoop Dance Competition hosted by the Heard Museum in Phoenix, Arizona. In case you are within the space, that is positively an occasion you’ll wish to expertise!
Watch this video to learn about the Hoop Dance. Then watch this video for Hoop Dance tips to get began.
As a bodily exercise, you need to use Hula-Hoops of assorted sizes to create your personal shapes and dances. There are many nice powwow songs to take heed to whereas dancing. Search “powwow music” on any music media supply and also you’ll discover heaps to select from.
2. The Arctic Winter Video games
The Arctic is likely one of the harshest environments on the planet. Regardless of the challenges of arctic life, the Inuit folks have survived there for 1000’s of years. A technique they preserve their power and grit is thru powerful bodily challenges. The Arctic Winter Video games and the World Eskimo-Indian Olympic Video games are two of the most important competitions held within the area.
The Kneel Bounce is an instance of an elite Arctic recreation. The problem is designed to show folks easy methods to rapidly get to their toes if a predator is close by. Are you and your college students up for the problem? Watch the video above to study the story of the Kneel Bounce. Plus try this video to learn about more games in the World Eskimo-Indian Olympics.
3. Lacrosse
Lacrosse is a fast-paced recreation that takes place on a big subject. Two groups compete to shoot a small ball into the opposing crew’s purpose. The ball is handed and shot by way of a picket follow a small internet on the tip. Though the sport has developed barely, its essence continues to be deeply rooted within the Native tradition by which it originated. This recreation was practiced for hundreds of years by our Native folks. The story of its origins holds deep non secular that means for the tribes that observe lacrosse. Use the movies posted right here to study extra concerning the recreation.
It’s possible you’ll wish to undertake fewer bodily guidelines to play in school. For instance, you need to use Final Frisbee guidelines, the place an individual can’t run once they have the ball. Due to this fact, they need to cross the ball as soon as they catch it. Coordinate along with your P.E. trainer to see what modifications may be made to make sure a enjoyable and protected expertise on your college students.
First, watch the video above to study concerning the origins of lacrosse. Then watch this video to learn the basic rules of lacrosse.
4. Clans for the Month
In Native tradition, our tribes are grouped into clans. Every clan consists of numerous households. Relying in your tribe, you could establish along with your father’s or your mom’s clan. Every clan is thought for its distinctive traits and is recognized by an animal or aspect. For instance, my spouse belongs to the Quechan tribe, one of many many various Colorado River tribes. The river was the principle supply of life for her folks and due to this fact held nice significance of their each day lives. She belongs to the Muskrat Clan. Muskrats are remarkably adept aquatic creatures, completely tailored to thrive within the speeding currents and tranquil backwaters of the mighty Colorado. Simply because the muskrat is supremely snug navigating the river’s winding channels and submerged banks, so too are the Quechan folks inextricably linked to this life-giving waterway.
Right here’s your likelihood to group your class into clans. As a clan, every group might want to resolve which aspect or animal represents them. Then, they will design a nameplate that’s displayed throughout class. This month can double as not solely a cultural month however an opportunity for team-building Native American Heritage Month actions and abilities. You’ll be able to award college students factors for exhibiting exemplary traits as a clan all through the month. The clan with probably the most factors on the finish of the month wins.
Earlier than you get began, watch the video above about clan construction and objective.
Style of Custom: Native American Meals
In Native tradition, meals is greater than one thing we eat. Meals is a means to hook up with our ancestors. It’s the medication of the land. Meals is our connection to our Mom Earth and our Creator. Meals teaches us and reminds us of our place within the sacred hoop of life. Be a part of us for some conventional dishes as you replicate by yourself household recipes and what they imply to you.
5. Acorn Cookies
Have you ever ever had the pleasure of mountain climbing by a gorgeous oak grove on a cool fall afternoon? If that’s the case, you in all probability seen the forest flooring was suffering from acorns. These particular seeds have been a staple of many California Native tribes just like the Miwok, the Ohlone, and the Kumeyaay to call a number of. Acorns are stuffed with scrumptious vitamins which are essential to our well being. Stopping free radicals from forming in your physique and lowering swelling are simply among the advantages present in acorn consumption. If ready accurately, in addition they make a scrumptious, nutritious Native deal with: cookies!
Watch the video above to discover ways to make them. Plus, try this video for a modern take on traditional food practices.
6. Corn Bread
Is meals extra than simply one thing we eat? Might meals even be medication? Typically we discuss with our conventional meals as “good medication” as a result of it retains our our bodies in steadiness, sturdy, and wholesome. One such meals is corn, which is taken into account a sacred meals in our Native tradition as it’s utilized in many ceremonies. You need to use each a part of the corn. For instance, corn pollen is used as a prayer powder within the Apache Dawn Ceremony.
First, watch this video with an example of corn creation stories which are informed by our totally different tribes concerning the origin of corn. Then watch the video above for a recipe that explains easy methods to make corn bread from scratch. You may also watch this video about how to make corn bread without grinding. Lastly, try this video about tribes working together to heal through the replenishing of their traditional diet.
Collectively as a category, benefit from the course of of creating your personal corn dish. From measuring, mixing, and baking, you and your college students could have an exquisite expertise. Should you’re feeling courageous, seize a molcajete and have the scholars grind some corn kernels by hand.
7. Wojapi
As we enter the month of November, I’m positive you might be solely midway by your Halloween sweet. However do you know that nature has sweet too? Sure, it’s true. I’m speaking about nature’s berries and fruit, in fact. A lot of tribes spend time gathering the native berries and getting ready them in varied sorts of dishes. Wojapi is a Lakota-style dish ready from the berries that develop of their conventional lands that after ranged from North and South Dakota and into some neighboring states. Keep in mind, earlier than the colonies have been shaped on the East Coast, land was not divided by states however slightly divided by geographic options and searching territories.
Are you prepared to assemble some berries and put together a scrumptious meal? Watch the video above to study to make wojapi with our Lakota elder.
8. Potlatch
Potlucks are extremely popular methods to rejoice the harvest season in November. As Native folks, we even have many gatherings centered across the sharing of meals. One such gathering is the potlatch. Potlatch is a Nuu-chah-nulth phrase meaning “present” or “to present.” Historically the host tribe ensures that all the friends are supplied with an assortment of presents, meals, and leisure. Creating good reminiscences and good emotions is a cornerstone of our Native tradition.
Now it’s your flip to host a potlatch. Collectively, plan the meals, leisure, and presents you’ll change with one other class. It’s possible you’ll wish to use among the meals and artwork concepts from this text. This is perhaps a good way to finish Native American Heritage Month in a grand trend, however be at liberty to carry your potlatch at a time that most accurately fits you.
To get began, watch the video above as a quick intro to the potlatch.
Get Cozy: Quiet Cultural Native American Heritage Month Actions
In the course of the 1800s, tribal leaders met with the US to debate the brand new legal guidelines of the land. When United States officers and officers met with tribal leaders, they might generally meet a number of instances over the course of some days. The officers and officers have been typically impressed by how quietly and attentively our Native leaders listened, particularly once they realized that the tribal leaders might recall all the things that was stated over the course of the entire assembly regardless of by no means having written something down. Native tradition consists of oral custom as a substitute of writing. Elders and adults cross down classes by tales and songs to the youngsters. Being a great listener is a lifestyle, not only a ability to assist us in class. Listed here are some quieter Native American Heritage Month actions that assist discover our Native tradition.
9. Pony Bead Corn
As you realized earlier on this article, meals is sacred, and within the Southwest, corn is that meals. Right now, we are able to make a gorgeous murals to honor the corn plant. Pony beads are the principle materials for this artwork mission. Not like corn, pony beads weren’t native to this land—they have been introduced over within the 1800s by European settlers as a method to commerce with the Native folks. You’ll discover pony beads and seed beads in multitudes of our conventional clothes and jewellery.
You’ll be able to study extra concerning the introduction of glass beads on this continent by clicking on the hyperlink beneath. Let’s see what varieties of gorgeous corn will come out of your college students!
Be taught extra concerning the history of pony beads in America here.
10. Household Tree
November is the month by which we rejoice Native American heritage, however it’s additionally the month of Thanksgiving, a cherished vacation once we spend time with family members and provides thanks for our blessings. Household lineage is a crucial a part of our Native tradition and is usually introduced when chatting with an viewers or when introducing ourselves. Our lineage helps establish who we’re, who we’re associated to, and the place we come from.
What an exquisite time to replicate by yourself household. Utilizing these family tree templates, college students can assemble a household tree as you study extra about the place they arrive from and the distinctive heritage of their household lineage.
11. Inventive Writing
All Native folks love listening to a great story by the nice and cozy firelight. We’ve tales about all the things on this earth. From the tiny ant to the primary hearth to the celebs within the sky, now we have tales about how all of them got here to be.
First discover a few of these magnificent stories of the Choctaw Nation. Once you’re completed exploring, it’s time for college kids to jot down their very own story. Utilizing inventive writing, have them describe how issues got here to be of their pure surroundings. Let their imaginations run wild with this one. Then collect collectively for some unique storytelling as they share their writing with friends.
12. Learn a Guide
Books have the facility to take us on unimaginable journeys and open our eyes to totally different views. Native American tales, whether or not handed down by generations or shared in trendy works, provide a singular window into the wealthy cultures, traditions, and histories of indigenous peoples.
Begin by exploring this list of Native American books, every one full of significant tales that replicate the various experiences of indigenous communities. As you learn, ask college students to consider the teachings, characters, and themes that resonate with them. Once you’re completed studying, have college students talk about the tales and share what impressed or moved them.
Get Artful: Native American Heritage Month Crafts
Our symbols, colours, and designs all inform a narrative about who we’re and the place we come from. Do you’ve gotten a narrative to inform? What’s going to your artwork say about you? Let’s dive into some enjoyable art-focused Native American Heritage Month actions!
13. Clay Pottery
As you discover the tribes throughout this nation, you can find many types of clay pottery. Clay is a pure substance discovered within the earth, often close to water. When clay is ready accurately, it may be baked in an oven to harden and protect the structural integrity of the vessel it has been shaped into.
Take a look at these nice movies to witness the magical means of bringing a bit of pottery to life. The video above is about Piipaash pottery, and the one beneath is about Catawba pottery of the previous and immediately.
Once you’re completed, seize some clay and have your college students begin making their very own pottery. What designs will you add? What colours and symbols maintain that means to you? You’ll be able to host a pottery artwork present when you find yourself completed.
14. Turtle Island Crafts
The time period “Turtle Island” is used all all through the Native nation. It’s how we describe the North American continent. Oddly sufficient, while you have a look at a map of the continent, it resembles a turtle. Right here’s the bizarre half although: The story of Turtle Island is older than any historic map. So how did we all know?
Take into account that concept as you create a enjoyable Turtle Island craft. First watch this video to hear the Ojibwe story of Turtle Island. Then watch both the Pipe Cleaner Turtle Craft video above or this video with a paper plate turtle tutorial.
15. Native American Designs
When exploring the artwork and tradition of our Native folks, you’ll see an array of gorgeous designs and colours masterfully composed in varied mediums. One thing to contemplate, although, is that all the colours, symbols, and designs have meanings and historic worth. For instance, typically the colour blue represents the water of a nation. Typically the colour purple can symbolize the blood of our folks.
You’ll be able to study extra about among the various symbols and designs of our folks by the video above about Navajo symbolism, in addition to this video about horse painting and this video on beadwork symbols.
Then, ask college students to consider their very own designs, colours, and symbols. How will they symbolize themselves, their household, and their group?
16. Cave Portray
There are few artworks that may take us deeper into the previous than cave work. Some cave work are estimated to be 1000’s of years previous! What did the artists intend to speak by their work and markings? Are you able to decipher the meanings? What would you wish to inform folks sooner or later about your present era, your present world?
Take a look at the video above about Panel Rock in Utah. Then watch this cave art video with creative ideas. Lastly, get your supplies prepared for college kids to create their very own cave portray.
17. Cardboard Roll Canoe
A canoe is a vital vessel for coastal tribes that navigate the waters of their homelands. Tribal elders and leaders of the group educate the youth canoe-making as a non secular course of. A few of these conventional practices turned uncommon, even extinct. Fortunately, some tribes are reviving the observe of birchbark canoe-making.
First watch the video above to see how this tribe makes their conventional birchbark canoes. Then discover ways to make your own canoe craft out of cardboard rolls.
18. Fall Leaf Dwelling
Many Native tribes all through historical past have skillfully utilized the pure assets discovered of their surrounding environments to assemble their dwellings and shelters. For instance, woodland tribes used logs and timber to assemble longhouses. Alternatively, tribes inhabiting extra arid, desert-like areas used clay, adobe bricks, and different pliable earth-based parts to construct their houses, which helped insulate them towards intense warmth. Regardless of the precise panorama, our Native folks possessed an intimate understanding of the ecosystems and will sustainably harvest the pure supplies at hand to satisfy our important housing wants.
Can your college students collect out of your native surroundings in a sustainable strategy to craft their very own miniature dwelling? Begin by watching this video on Native American dwellings. Then watch the video above to discover ways to make a DIY Native dwelling.
19. Kachina Dolls
Kachinas are highly effective non secular beings which have existed with the Hopi folks for the reason that starting of time. They’ve taught the Hopi about ceremonies and methods of life, and out of gratitude, the Hopi folks honor the kachina with songs, dances, and kachina dolls. Every kachina is exclusive and has a reputation and a particular objective. For instance, Crow Mom is the guardian of the youngsters. You and your class can study extra about kachinas from the movies beneath.
Your college students can create their very own tales and dolls to symbolize them, or they will attempt to create a model of an current kachina. First, watch this video on the Kachina beliefs. Then watch this video on working on Kachina art. Lastly, watch the video above to find out about Kachina dolls for class.
20. Speaking Stick
The speaking stick is a superb addition to any classroom. Tribes have been utilizing the speaking stick for generations. As a democratic society, we believed in letting all of our leaders communicate in our lodges. Large selections have been mentioned and agreed upon by the entire tribe, and on this means, we remained shut collectively, unified in our actions.
A speaking stick ought to symbolize the folks. Should you’re creating one on your class, first watch the video above to study extra about speaking stick utilization. Then you’ll be able to invite college students to herald a small trinket to tie onto the stick. Different choices might embody coloured beads, or paint that every little one chooses. This manner when the speaker is holding the speaking stick, they’re holding the eye and good intentions of all of the individuals who contributed to it. It’s possible you’ll wish to strive the speaking stick in your class discussions. Let’s see how the speaking stick can influence your classroom.
21. Huichol Bead Artwork
Upon first setting eyes on Huichol bead artwork, you’ll absolutely be drawn in by its complicated, intricate designs and vibrant colours. However when you ask the artist concerning the that means, you’ll be much more intrigued as you study that every colour and design holds a particular that means.
Be taught extra by watching the above video as an introduction to Huichol bead artwork, with details about designs and meanings. Then, head to your native artwork provide retailer or log on to buy a wide range of beads for use in your personal Huichol-inspired artwork. You’ll be able to ask college students to herald an object that can be lined and adorned with the beads, or they will merely compose the design on paper. Don’t overlook your glue!
22. Totem Poles
The long-lasting totem pole has lengthy been seen in American tradition, however will we really perceive its historic that means and significance to the folks? Totem poles are used to symbolize households and their historical past. Every clan or household is represented by varied parts and animals. The household lineage is then informed by stacking these parts and animals on the totem pole. This lovely custom continues to be practiced immediately.
Begin by watching this video on totem poles today. Then watch the video above with totem pole concepts, so your class can begin making your personal totem tales.
23. Backyard Planting
Should you’ve ever pushed by an agricultural subject, you undoubtedly seen rows and rows of the identical crop. For instance, you may see tons of of heads of lettuce when passing by the sector in Yuma, Arizona, or tons of of rows of strawberries when cruising by lovely Watsonville, California. Differing from this observe, native agriculture makes use of varied seeds in the identical rising house. That is known as companion planting as a result of the crops assist one another as they develop collectively.
The Three Sisters is a well-known instance of this mannequin of rising. How great wouldn’t it be to begin a small backyard at your college? The Three Sisters Backyard is a straightforward, enjoyable strategy to begin. Simply be certain you might be planning for the proper rising season. Often, the Three Sisters—squash, corn, and beans—need to be planted within the spring. Nonetheless, this generally is a nice time to attract a blueprint of your backyard and begin campaigning for donations, whereas additionally getting ready the bottom and constructing your gardening crew.
Watch this video concerning the Three Sisters Garden to get began.
24. Enhance With Inspirational Quotes and Images
You don’t need to go to a museum to see photographs of Native People or to learn their inspiring phrases. You’ll be able to flip your college hallways right into a museum expertise by printing our photographs and quotes of well-known Native People and hanging them within the halls. College students can be impressed because the hallways come to life and communicate into their lives with phrases of encouragement and knowledge.
Should you’re fascinated with studying extra and exhibiting your help for Native People, try Native American Rights Fund, Native Governance Center, and Association on American Indian Affairs.
For extra actions to honor Native People, try How To Celebrate and Honor Indigenous Peoples’ Day.
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