National Native American Heritage Month is observed in November to honor the history, cultures, traditions, and contributions of more than 574 federally recognized tribes in the United States. Originally called “American Indian Week” in October under President Ford in 1976, it became a full-month designation under President Bush in 1990. November is significant because it historically aligned with the end of the harvest season, which was a traditional time for tribal communities to gather, give thanks, and share resources, strengthening community bonds.
For a general overview of the different tribes, check out “The Gale Encyclopedia of Native American Tribes: volumes 1-4” (970.1 Gal). It offers insight into the historical and contemporary issues of nearly 400 North American tribes. It also covers topics such as healing practices, means of subsistence, clothing, and other cultural customs.
For those who are more interested in the timeless art and craftsmanship of Native Americans there is Ted Brasser’s “Native American Clothing: An Illustrated History” (391.0089 Bra) celebrates the fascinating details of clothing items such as moccasins, tunics, bags, along with ceremonial and burial costumes. Brasser explains not only who made the items, but also the meanings behind the specific types of decorations. There is also a collection of beadwork items to check out in “Native American beadwork: projects & techniques from the Southwest” by Theresa Flores Geary (745.582 Gea). This book features beadwork based on the tribal legends and cultural traditions of Native Americans. Patty Cox wrote, “Native American Leather and Bead Crafting” (745.5 Cox), which adopts the methods, supplies, and tools of traditional Native American patterns and techniques, while making them applicable to any crafter and encouraging appreciation of the historical significance of the unique culture.
Another way to honor National Native American Heritage Month is through food, gathering together, and giving thanks, so why not dive into some of the amazing cookbooks our library has to offer for inspiration? Sean Serman wrote, “The Sioux Chef’s Indigenous Kitchen” (641.59 She). Sherman focuses on no European staples in his recipes, such as wheat flour, dairy products, sugar, and domestic pork and beef; but rather, venison, trout, duck, wild turkey, etc. This is a great introduction to modern indigenous cuisines of the Dakota and Minnesota territories. The “New Native Kitchen: Celebrating Modern Recipes of the American Indian” (641.59297 Bit) by Freddie Bitsoie is another great feature! It is a celebration of the indigenous heritage of American cuisine. “A Feather and a Fork” (641.59297 Wahpepah) by Crystal Wahpepah includes 125 recipes, developed in collaboration with ethnobotanist and food sovereignty advocate Linda Black Elk, to explore the environmental, spiritual, physical, and social benefits of each dish, as well as raise awareness of and support for indigenous food producers who are preserving heirloom foods and traditions.
There is a lot going on for most people as we enter the holidays, but as we gather, give thanks, and share resources, remember National Native American Heritage Month. Explore the books mentioned in this article and the many more we have to offer in our collection. The library is open 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Monday-Thursday and 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Friday-Saturday.
Ashlyn Williams is a library assistant in the Adult Services Department at the Crawfordsville District Public Library.
