Native American Heritage Month is a federally recognized month-long celebration of the history, culture, and contributions of Native Americans past, present and future. It is also known as American Indian and Alaska Native Heritage Month. It is celebrated every year starting on November 1, which this year falls on a Friday. The observance of Native American Heritage Month presents Austin ISD with an opportunity to acknowledge the rich diversity and achievements of Indigenous people and communities.
In Texas, HB 174 designated the last Friday in September as American Indian Heritage Day. In 2024, that day was Friday, September 27.
Involve your family with some of these learning resources:
Attend the Austin Powwow on 11/23 at 9 am - 9 pm at the Travis County Expo Center The Austin Powwow is the largest single-day Native American Powwow in the country. In addition to a traditional Powwow with dance contests, we feature a Native American arts and crafts market and a Native American food court. Grand Entry is at 12 pm, and you won't want to miss seeing all the dancers enter the arena!
Check out our library collection or read from this Children's Book List of Native Authors
Attend one of the free Austin Public Library community programs by the Central Texas Cherokee Township
Saturday, 11/9, 10 AM – 12 PM, Hampton at Oak Hill Branch, Fingerweaving
Saturday, 11/9, 2:30-4:30 PM, Twin Oaks Branch, Fingerweaving
Monday, 11/18, 6-7:45 PM, John Gillum Branch, Fingerweaving
Tuesday, 11/19, 6-7:45 PM, Southeast Branch. Fingerweaving
NIxtamalization and corn dough on November 17th on Central l, 1 to 4 pm
Resources at BLEND:
Native American and Indigenous Student Education Program and for access to our BLEND page with resources, which is open to students who identify as American Indian, Native American, or Indigenous. We also have a curriculum pilot available for 5th-grade teachers with TEKS-aligned lessons, contact David Torres for more information. david.torres@austinisd.org