Honouring Tradition, Acknowledging History

Native American Heritage month is celebrated annually in November to honour, acknowledge, and remember the culture, history, and perseverance of native peoples. Native American Heritage Month honours the culture, traditions, and contributions of native peoples. It is dedicated to recognizing the true origins of our modern world.

It is important we remember the perseverance and resilience that Native Americans showed throughout history. When the colonization of Native Americans began, they were greatly impacted. Impacted in ways that still hold generational weight to this day. They were forced off their tribal lands, introduced to new diseases that were detrimental to their populations, causing mass loses of languages, cultures, traditions, and more.

We can embrace this by supporting native musicians, actors, authors, directors, etc. We can learn about different tribes and groups and look into Bermuda’s own history with Native peoples.

This is a time to recognise achievements and share stories. During this month-long acknowledgement various events are observed. Such as festivals, concerts, and educational programs. Overall, this time should be used to celebrate and uplift Native Americans. Despite adversity after adversity, they are still here. Let’s remember they are here and deserve to be remembered.

written by Chair of Diversity, Yemaya Iris