Native American Culture & Pride

November is American Indian Heritage (Native American) Month. American Indian Heritage Month evolved from an American Indian Day in the early 1900s (after the Indian Wars). The idea of Dr. Arthur C. Parker, a Seneca Indian, was to recognize the significant contributions made to our society by the first Americans.

After many decades of lobbying by Native American leaders, President George H. W. Bush approved a joint resolution designating November as National American Indian Heritage Month. Similar proclamations have been issued each year since 1994.

Despite the existence of hundreds of different tribes of American Indians in North America, these tribes shared a common philosophy that often translated into tribal religions. That philosophy was based on their total respect for and appreciation of nature. Here are some Native American pearls of wisdom, most of which are part of all American religions and culture:

• The Earth is our Mother; care for Her.
• Honor all your relations.
• Open your heart and soul to the Great Spirit.
• All life is sacred.
• Treat all beings with respect.
• Take from the Earth what is needed and nothing more.
• Do what needs to be done for the good of all.
• Give constant thanks to the Great Spirit for each day.
• Speak the truth but only for the good in others.
• Follow the rhythms of Nature.
• Enjoy life's journey; but leave no tracks.

Assign students a topic that focuses on some aspect of Native American life and culture from the listing below. Assign students to write a report of at least 100 words or a presentation of at least five slides that cites at least three resources.

Students should address the following examples of essential questions for critical thinking in their reports (you may want to create others):

• How is this aspect of Native American life and culture the same as other minority groups?
• How is this aspect of Native American life and culture different than other minority groups?
• What reasons would you give for the relative difference in Native American and the average American lifestyle?
• What can Native Americans and the federal government do to create greater equality and appreciation for Native Americans?

Select the Subject Heading search option > Type "Indians of North America" in the Search box > Click the subject below (assigned by your teacher)

• Indians of North America, Civil rights
• Indians of North America, Cultural assimilation
• Indians of North America, Education
• Indians of North America, Folklore
• Indians of North America, Food
• Indians of North America, Health and hygiene
• Indians of North America, Languages
• Indians of North America, Medical care
• Indians of North America, Politics and government
• Indians of North America, Religion
• Indians of North America, Reservations (See: Indian reservations)
• Indians of North America, Treatment of
• Indians of North America, Wars

Use our custom ProQuest models for written or PowerPoint reports written and PowerPoint-style reports.

PROQUEST SUPPORTS EDUCATION | TOOLS & RESOURCES