How College Students Can Respect and Celebrate Native American Heritage
In this article we'll explore the significance of Native American Heritage Month and provide guidance on how college students can respect and celebrate Native American heritage.
By Jessica Dickenson — October 24, 2023
November is the annual celebration of Native American Heritage Month. While we should take more than one month of the year to celebrate, honor, and recognize the rich history and contributions of Indigenous people in the United States, it is important to make a special effort this time of year.
Native American Heritage Month is an opportunity for college students to not only learn about Indigenous cultures but also actively engage in respectful and meaningful ways. We'll explore the significance of Native American Heritage Month and provide guidance on how college students can respect and celebrate Native American heritage.
Understanding Native American Heritage
Native American history is a complex and multifaceted narrative, often overlooked or over simplified in mainstream discussions. It is not monolithic; instead, it comprises a rich tapestry of cultures, languages, and traditions that can vary significantly from tribe to tribe.
While it is far too simplistic to categorize Indigenous peoples by their geographic location, it may help illustrate how expansive and diverse Native American heritage truly is. Just as an American citizen can instantly recognize the differences between a Californian and a New Yorker, there is a similar but more complex breakdown of tribes. A Californian will speak differently and have different hobbies, customs, and diet compared to someone who lives in New York. Even though they may all be living in America, it does not make all people the same. This is especially true for Indigenous peoples.
One of the most remarkable aspects of Native American history is the immense diversity of cultures. There are over 574 federally recognized tribes in the United States alone, each with its own unique customs, languages, and belief systems. These differences can be seen in various aspects of life, including art, clothing, food, language, and religious practices. Understanding this diversity is crucial for gaining a more profound appreciation of the Indigenous peoples of North America.
Myths and Stereotypes
While there is clearly a huge difference in Native American tribes, there are still many harmful perpetuations of stereotypes and myths surrounding Native Americans. Common stereotypes portray Native Americans as stoic, primitive, uncivilized, and from a one-size-fits-all box belonging to the past.
Cultural appropriation is not unfamiliar to college campuses. Cultural appropriation is broadly defined as the misuse or imitation of elements from one culture by members of another culture without understanding, respecting, or acknowledging its significance. Many schools used native American names and imagery for sports teams, reducing native Americans to little more than a caricature of their heritage. People may dress up as "Indians" for Halloween or wear ceremonial garments for sports games while shouting out "war-whoops."
These stereotypical images are not only inaccurate but also perpetuate deep violence and misunderstanding toward Native American people.
Appreciating Native American history requires acknowledging the intricate diversity that exists within these cultures. Reducing indigenous peoples to stereotypes or lumping them into a single category neglects and rejects the complexity of their heritage, and the violence that this country has continually enacted on them in the name of the Western colonial project.
By recognizing the differences and complexities among Native American's, we can foster greater understanding and respect for their beautiful traditions, languages, and customs. Appreciation can lead to more meaningful collaborations and partnerships that empower Native communities to preserve their unique cultural identities and promote the well-being of their people, their land, and their communities.
Embracing Cultural Appreciation
To appreciate Native American heritage respectfully, college students should educate themselves about Indigenous cultures, engage with Indigenous voices, and support Indigenous artists and businesses. Some ways you can promote cultural appreciation this Native American Heritage Month could include, but are not limited to:
Campus Events:
Many campuses host events such as lectures, workshops, cultural celebrations, and art exhibitions to promote understanding. If your campus doesn't already offer any of these resources, you can talk to a member of your student support services, events staff, and/or your DEI committee to arrange something.Exposure:
When was the last time you read a book by an Indigenous author? Or learned something about Native American history? Find books and articles written by Indigenous authors or scholars or watch informative documentaries about Native American culture and history.Including Indigenous Voices:
There is no better way to learn than by elevating the experts into positions of power. Encourage students and your campus community to include Indigenous speakers, musicians, and artists to share their culture and experiences.Engage in Open Dialogue:
Encourage and challenge yourself and other college students to engage in open, respectful dialogue about Native American heritage and its significance.Support Indigenous Communities:
While it is important that you are engaged as a student, it is important to show your support both on and off campus. Demonstrate your respect and solidarity, but continue to engage in positive activities that support individuals or tribal communities.Cultural appreciation involves a respectful and ethical approach to engaging with different cultures, including Native American heritage.
Native American Heritage Month provides a valuable opportunity for college students to learn about and respect Indigenous cultures. By dispelling stereotypes, embracing cultural appreciation, engaging in campus initiatives, and supporting Indigenous communities, students can actively participate in the celebration and education surrounding Native American heritage.
By acknowledging the myriad customs, languages, and belief systems among Indigenous peoples, we can foster a deeper understanding and respect for their history, which, in turn, can lead to more meaningful interactions and partnerships between Native American communities and the broader society. Together, we can create an inclusive and respectful campus environment that honors the contributions of Indigenous peoples to our nation's history and culture.
Jessica Dickenson
Jessica Dickenson graduated from Wisconsin Lutheran College with degrees in English and communication. She has applied her abilities working as a young marketing professional for a local university but works as a freelance writer and photographer in her spare time. She currently resides in Milwaukee, Wisconsin with her husband.
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