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The 2024 NIH Office of Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion Native American Heritage Month campaign graphic displays the campaign theme, Celebrating Resilience and Strength, and an eagle soaring into the sun.

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Native American Heritage Month 2024

Clarissa Alexander

Clarissa Alexander

Principal Strategist, Native American Employment Portfolio

Message from our Strategist

In 1990, President George H. W. Bush approved a joint resolution in which he designated the month of November "National American Indian Heritage Month." Former President Bush asked all Americans and their elected representatives at the federal, state, and local levels to observe the month with appropriate programs, ceremonies, and activities.

Today, NIH celebrates Native American Heritage Month (NAHM) by recognizing the sovereignty of Tribal nations and highlighting the extraordinary histories, contributions, and contemporary lives of Native Americans. This commemorative month helps us reflect on the distinctive cultures that play an integral role in the greater narrative of American history.

I invite you to participate in the exciting events and programming offered this month as we observe the NIH NAHM theme, “Indigenous Resilience: Overcoming Barriers.” I hope you will create the time and space to engage in allyship and community by learning more about the diverse and dynamic traditions and cultures of Native peoples.

Events

 
Celebration of Resiliance Indigenous Cultural Festival

Celebration of Resilience Indigenous Cultural Festival

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NIH Clinical Center, 10 Center Drive, Bethesda, MD 20892
Native American Heritage Month 2024. Celebrating Resilience and Strength.
About the Artwork

The Native American Heritage Month 2024 graphic honors the resilience and strength of Native American communities through symbolic colors, patterns, and imagery. The golden-yellow background features earth and sun, which hold cultural and spiritual significance across many Native American tribes, representing rebirth, renewal, and the natural world. The burgundy pattern throughout the border reflects traditional Native American design, symbolizing unity and continuity of cultural heritage. The soaring eagle, central to many tribal narratives, is a powerful symbol of inspiration, resilience, and strength. Together, these elements celebrate the enduring spirit and cultural richness of Native American communities, paying homage to their ongoing contributions and the strength they bring to society and NIH.