NEVADA AIR NATIONAL GUARD BASE, Nev. -- Honoring our nations: Building strength through understanding
November is National American Indian Heritage Month. It is a time to reflect on the rich and diverse cultures, traditions, and histories of American Indians and Alaskan Natives, the first people of the United States. The theme for 2019 National American Indian Heritage month, as provided by the Society of American Indian Government Employees (SAIGE) is, “Honoring Our Nations: Building Strength Through Understanding”
American Indians and Alaskan Natives have served our nation valiantly and with distinction in times of peace and war for over 200 years. They serve at a high rate, with nearly 50 percent of all American Indians and Alaskan Natives in the military serving in the U.S. Navy. The Navy also has the highest concentration of female Service members when compared to other ethnic groups.
In this year’s design, the DEOMI Special Observance team highlighted the names of the 573 federally recognized tribal nations. The eagle was chosen as the focal point because it is highly revered and considered sacred within American Indian and Alaskan Native traditions, culture, and religion. The eagle represents truth, courage, wisdom, power, and freedom.
In 1924, Congress enacted the Indian Citizenship Act. In 1986 Congress passed and President Ronald Reagan signed the proclamation authorizing American Indian Week. In 1990, President George H. W. Bush designated November as National American Indian Heritage Month. After 100 years of efforts to establish it, National American Indian and Alaska Native Heritage Month is celebrated to recognize native cultures and educate the public about the heritage, history, art, and traditions of the American Indians and Alaskan Natives.
If you would like more information on how to celebrate diversity in your work area please visit www.deomi.org or contact the 152nd Equal Opportunity Office in BLDG 56 Room 9B, call 788-4649, or email Tech. Sgt. Adam Willett, Equal Opportunity Specialist. adam.w.willett.mil@mail.mil