November is Native American Heritage Month, a time to celebrate the rich and diverse cultures of Indigenous peoples while acknowledging their important contributions to American history and learn about the unique challenges they have faced both historically and currently. OCC’s Office of DEIJ has provided a number of resources and invites you to share more as part of our commitment to learn and grow together.
History of Native American Heritage Month
While the first "American Indian Day" was celebrated in New York in May of 1916, the month-long recognition as we know it today didn’t come into existence until seven decades later. In 1990, President George H.W. Bush signed a joint congressional resolution designating November as National American Indian Heritage Month.
College, Local and National Resources
There is always much to learn about Native American people. For example, have you heard of Standing Bear v. Crook? This landmark 1879 Native American civil rights case marks the first time a Native American was recognized as a person under the law, rather than as a ward of the government.
OCC’s Office of DEIJ recommends the following resources to learn more about Native American heritage:
- National Native American Heritage Month Research Guide (via OCC Libraries)
- Michigan Native American Heritage Month Proclamation
- 9 Facts about Native American Tribes (via History.com)
- Transforming teaching and learning about Native Americans (via National Museum of the American Indian)
- Programs & Services (via U.S. Department of the Interior Indian Affairs)
As you review these resources and deepen your understanding of Indigenous peoples, the College’s Office of DEIJ invites you to share a particularly interesting fact using this web form. They will share the community’s findings on the DEIJ webpage during the week of November 27 as we continue to learn from each other.
About OCC
Oakland Community College offers nearly 100 degrees and certificates programs with the resources students need to be successful and advance our community. As a top transfer institution, OCC offers one of the state’s most affordable tuition rates and flexibility in scheduling with face-to-face and online options. The College is nationally recognized for its high-demand career training with expert faculty in their fields. More than 1 million students have enrolled in the College since it opened in 1965. Learn more at oaklandcc.edu.
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