Celebrating Indigenous Peoples' Day: Honoring Native American Heritage

Hello, friends! Indigenous Peoples' Day is here, a time to honor the vibrant cultures and enduring contributions of Native American communities. Observed on the second Monday of October, this day shifts focus from Columbus to the original stewards of these lands. Did you know?

1. The Navajo Nation is the largest of 574 tribes in the U.S., and 150 Native American languages are still spoken in the US today.

2. Native Americans pioneered the cultivation of corn, tomatoes, and potatoes— and introduced chocolate, vanilla, and avocados - foods that shaped global cuisine!

3. The Abenaki have lived in New Hampshire for at least 8,000 years - fishing at the Amoskeag falls in Manchester.

4. About 8,000 Native Americans live in New Hampshire today, including 4,000 “hiding in plain sight” - due to fear of historical persecution and discrimination.

   
   

Celebrate by visiting local Indigenous heritage sites, purchasing authentic Native art, participating in powwows, or diving into Indigenous music and podcasts. Let’s honor Native American heritage and strive for a more understanding America!

Contributed by: George Chegge

Source: National Congress of American Indians (NCAI) Website, New Hampshire Commission on Native American Affairs Website, census.gov

Date: 09/04/2024