What is Native American Heritage Month?
Native American Heritage Month is celebrated every November. Starting in 1990, after former President George H.W Bush signed a joint resolution, the month of November has been dedicated to celebrating Native American Heritage Month. During the course of this month, we celebrate and honor the vast amounts of tradition, culture, and heritage that Native Americans bring to the U.S.
Native Americans were the first settlers in North America, in the United States, and they helped shape our country into what it is today. Colorado was once home to many Native American tribes throughout history, including the Ute, Arapaho, Cheyenne, and Comanche tribes, all contributing to the formation and culture of our great state. Today, the Southern and Mountain Ute tribes are recognized by our government.
Colorado has also been home to many historical Native American figures, including Chief Ouray, who was appointed leader of the Ute Tribe. During his time, he helped negotiate with the government in an effort for the Utes to keep their land. The popular mountain town of Ouray, Colorado was named in his honor.
Let’s keep celebrating and remembering these important figures in history!
