Native American Heritage Month

We Still Live Here - Âs Nutayuneân Trailer

As November begins, many of us are excited for Pumpkin Spice Lattes, layering our clothes and hearing rain drops plop outside of our windows. But, there's one group of our community that we are forgetting about! This month is Native American Heritage Month and it's a month where the Native Americans are recognized for their culture and how they have changed and contributed to the United States.

Traditional Moccasins (Apache)

When European settlers arrived in the United States, Native Americans were oppressed, removed and exiled. Because of this tragic happening, only 2% of the United States' population is made up of Native Americans as of 2013. Day by day, the culture is disappearing and the traditions are fading away. Yesterday, I watched a documentary in the IDC building called "We Still Live Here - Âs Nutayuneân" where the Wampanoag tribe in Massachusetts revives their language after more than 100 years have passed without using it. The documentary, sponsored by SBCC's Ethnic Studies Department and Ethnic Studies Club, opened my eyes to the consequence that losing one's origins could bring. Culture is such a significant part of America and it's what makes our country so unique!

So next year, when November comes around, drop those lattes, slap on those sweats and watch a documentary on the Native American culture if you have not already. Appreciate those around you, especially because it IS Thanksgiving season. :)

See you next post,

Chey

Currently listening to Anna Sun (Acoustic) by The Griswolds