Each November, the US honors National Native American Heritage Month which recognizes the “traditions, languages and stories of Native American, Alaska Native, Native Hawaiian, and affiliated Island communities and ensure their rich histories and contributions continue to thrive with each passing generation” (U.S. Department of the Interior Indian Affairs, bia.gov/NNAHM).
So often indigenous peoples are discussed in terms of the past, as relics, dying peoples, history. And while it’s important to have our histories told, especially when so much has been misrepresented, it’s also crucial to know that we fully exist right now in the present and will continue to exist well into the future. As Indigenous Americans, we are thriving members of every community as parents and families, colleagues, neighbors, leaders, artists, writers, activists, and more. While our lineages and heritages differ, they are innately connected to who we are and how we envision our future as indigenous people.
The Contra Costa County Library welcomes you to celebrate with us the histories, resilience, and infinite possibilities for indigenous futures during this month of recognition and beyond. Browse through our various booklists below highlighting the new and growing number of titles created by indigenous voices, telling our own stories. Explore the histories of Native Americans in the Bay Area at one of our various Discover & Go partners featuring special exhibits this month. Or visit one of our frequent partners, the East Bay Regional Parks District, as they celebrate Native American Heritage Month with a variety of programs.
Add a comment to: We Are Still Here: Honoring Indigenous Voices