Native American Heritage Month

Native American Heritage Month

Celebrating Native American Heritage Month at New Mexico Highlands University is a vital opportunity to honor the Indigenous Peoples of this land—recognizing their sovereignty, resilience, and enduring presence. It is a time to reflect on historical injustices such as colonization, displacement, and broken treaties, while promoting healing and reconciliation. This month also serves to educate and raise awareness about Native histories, cultures, contemporary issues, challenging stereotypes and misinformation. By amplifying Native voices and supporting tribal sovereignty, we foster inclusion, respect, and appreciation for Indigenous traditions and leadership. Most importantly, Native American Heritage Month inspires future generations—encouraging Native youth and allies to embrace cultural identity, learn from Indigenous wisdom, and work together toward a more just and inclusive future. As N. Scott Momaday, Kiowa author and Pulitzer Prize winner, wrote: “Words were medicine; they were magic and invisible. They came from nothing into sound and meaning. They were beyond price; they could neither be bought nor sold.”

Written by Larraine Shelly-Becenti

Rachelle Tenorio

Editor