Bridging Past and Present: Lessons from Native American Heritage Month

Grade Level: 6-12

Time: 60-90 Minutes

Essential Question

Why and how should we commemorate Native American Heritage Month?

About This Lesson

Native American Heritage Month is celebrated and commemorated every year during November. The purpose of this dedicated month is not only for Indigenous peoples to celebrate their history, culture, heritage and traditions. Native American History Month is also a time to educate others about tribal nations and recognize the history, accomplishments and contributions of Native people. This lesson provides an opportunity for students to learn more about Native American Heritage Month, reflect on past and current day issues facing Native American people, analyze the evolution of language used to describe Indigenous peoples and consider different ideas about how to commemorate the month and beyond.