Dear Prince Georgians:
Today marks the start of Native American Heritage Month. Every year during the month of November, the nation joins together to honor and celebrate the rich and diverse cultures, traditions, and histories of Native Americans and Indigenous peoples, as well as to acknowledge their significant contributions and achievements to our history, society, and culture. We are so proud of the rich culture and diversity of our County, and we are excited to take this opportunity to celebrate and officially declare November 2022 as Native American Heritage Month in Prince George’s County.
The recognition of Native Americans and Indigenous peoples began in 1976 as Native American Awareness Week. It was then expanded in August 1990 when President George H.W. Bush declared the month of November as Native American Heritage Month. During this month, it is extremely important that we acknowledge and recognize the significant contributions that Native Americans and Indigenous peoples have made to the history and culture of our great nation.
Throughout the entire month, Prince George’s County will host celebrations and events in recognition of Native American Heritage Month. There will be opportunities for the entire family to commemorate the rich culture and heritage of our Native American community in Prince George’s and beyond. You will find more information about events happening throughout the County below, and I encourage you and your family to celebrate with us this month.
Yours in service,
Angela Alsobrooks
Prince George’s County Executive
Native American Heritage Month Events
Craft and Create: Adult Coloring – Native American Imagery
Reader’s Advisory: Native American and Indigenous Peoples Heritage Month
The Prince George’s County Memorial Library System (PGCMLS) is hosting its Reader’s Advisory in recognition of Native American Heritage Month on Friday, November 4, at 3:00 PM. This virtual event series will give participants an opportunity to learn about recent books to celebrate Native American Heritage Month. To learn more about the Reader’s Advisory, visit the PGCMLS website here.
You May Not Know It, But You’re Already Speaking Native American Languages
Join the Prince George’s County Memorial Library System (PGCMLS), in partnership with the National Museum of Language, as they host “You May Not Know It, But You’re Already Speaking Native American Languages” on Wednesday, November 9, at 6:30 PM at the Greenbelt Branch Library. During this event, participants will learn more information about the wealth of Native American words that have been incorporated into American English. To learn more about the event or to register, visit the PGCMLS website here.
A Virtual Discussion: Cassidy Caron on Métis Identity, History, and Culture
The Prince George’s County Memorial Library System (PGCMLS), in collaboration with the Prince George’s County Office of Human Rights, will host a virtual discussion with Cassidy Caron, President of the Métis National Council, on Monday, November 14, at 7:00 PM. Participants will learn about the distinct Métis identity, history, and culture and how Ms. Caron and the Métis National Council advance healing, truth, and reconciliation through advocacy and involvement. To learn more about this event, visit the PGCMLS website here.
Independent Film Series – Inhabitants: Indigenous Perspectives on Restoring our World
The Prince George’s County Memorial Library System is hosting a free screening of Inhabitants on Monday, November 21, at 7:00 PM at the Hyattsville Branch Library. This award-winning feature documentary follows five Native American tribes across deserts, coastlines, forests, and prairies as they restore their traditional land management practices. To learn more about the film screening or to register, visit the PGCMLS website here.