Elon to celebrate Native American Heritage Month with a variety of events and programs

By Kelsey Armstrong, staff

October 30, 2024

The Elon community is invited to celebrate and learn more about the experiences, histories and heritage of Native and Indigenous communities.

Elon University will celebrate Native American Heritage Month (NAHM) with a host of events to celebrate and educate the Elon community about Native American and Indigenous identity.

A display table covered with a red cloth holds a selection of books focusing on Indigenous and cultural themes. Titles visible include "The Sioux Chef's Indigenous Kitchen," "Reclaiming Two-Spirits," "As Long as Grass Grows," "An Afro-Indigenous History of the United States," and others. Several pens are scattered around the table, suggesting the display may be for promotional or educational purposes.
Books by and about Native Americans that were available to win as prizes during the 2023 Native American Heritage Month kickoff.

In 1990, President George H. W. Bush signed a joint resolution into law, officially designating November as National American Indian Heritage Month, also known as Native American Heritage Month. This marked the beginning of a national observance dedicated to honoring the culture, traditions, and contributions of Native Americans. The law and subsequent proclamations recognized American Indians as the original inhabitants of what is now the United States, highlighting their enduring contributions to society and history.

Since 2009, U.S. Presidents, including Barack Obama and Donald Trump, have continued this tradition, issuing annual proclamations that celebrate the rich heritage of Native American communities. These proclamations encourage all Americans to learn about and appreciate the diverse cultures, histories and ongoing contributions of Native American peoples.

Please join the Center for Race, Ethnicity and Diversity Education (CREDE) in November as Elon celebrates and learns more about the experiences, histories and heritage of Native and Indigenous communities. Stay up-to-date with all upcoming events for NAHM or Indigenous Student Success. Follow the instructions online on how to add the events below to your calendar.

Two women are interacting at a table displaying books and informational materials for Native American Heritage Month. One woman, wearing a green sweater, examines a pamphlet handed to her by the other woman, who is wearing a light-colored sweater. A large screen in the background displays “Native American Heritage Month.” Other attendees and materials are visible in the room.
Participant receiving a sticker for visiting the Belk Library table with Native American Literature in 2023.

Event Calendar

Crafting in the Commons

Monday, Nov. 4 | 6:30-8 p.m., Global Commons

Join the Native American Student Association (NASA) for a night of crafting in Global Commons! Crafting materials will be provided.

NOTICE- Speaker–TBD

Wednesday, Nov. 6 | 5:30-7 p.m., CREDE (Moseley 221)

The original event, with speaker Kasey Kinsella is being changed. Please check back with this page for more details about the event’s new speaker/topic at a later date.

NAHM Celebration

Monday, Nov. 11 | 5:30-7 p.m., McKinnon Hall 

Celebrate Native American Heritage Month with a gathering that brings together Indigenous artists, educational activities and food. The event will offer a chance to engage with the rich history and culture of Indigenous peoples, along with opportunities to win different prizes.

Soil to Soul

Friday, Nov. 15 | Noon-2 p.m., CREDE (Moseley 221)

Looking for a chill, hands-on way to connect with nature and learn something new? Join us for Soil to Soul, where we’ll dive into Indigenous plants’ cultural and ecological significance. Paint a pot, plant native wildflowers and take home a piece of nature you can transplant outdoors!

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