American Indian Heritage Day (also known as Native American Heritage Day) is a day dedicated to honoring the history, culture, contributions, and resilience of Native American peoples, including American Indians and Alaska Natives. It recognizes their role as the original inhabitants of what is now the United States and highlights their ongoing impact on society, from traditional arts and governance to modern achievements in fields like science, military service, and environmental stewardship. The day encourages education, cultural events, and reflection on the U.S. government’s relationship with Native nations.
The push for a dedicated day began in the early 20th century. In the 1910s, Seneca scholar Arthur C. Parker advocated for “American Indian Day,” and the Boy Scouts of America adopted it in 1912. By the 1970s, Congress began designating observances, evolving into National Native American Heritage Month in November (established in 1990).
In 2009, President Barack Obama signed the Native American Heritage Day Act (H.J. Res. 40), making the Friday after Thanksgiving a national day of observance each year. This built on earlier efforts, like President Ronald Reagan’s 1986 proclamation for “American Indian Week.”
Key Facts and History
While the federal observance is the Friday after Thanksgiving (November 28 in 2025), some states celebrate on different dates:
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- Last Friday in September: Texas, Montana (state observance).
- Fourth Monday in October: South Dakota (as Native American Day).
- It’s a state holiday (offices closed) in Alabama and Maryland.
Significance and Celebrations
The day promotes awareness through school programs, museum events, performances, and community gatherings.
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- In Texas, the Bullock Texas State History Museum hosts an annual event with partners like Great Promise for American Indians, featuring cultural demonstrations and educational activities.
- Nationwide, it ties into Native American Heritage Month, with over 574 federally recognized tribes contributing to events that showcase art, storytelling, and sovereignty.
Criticisms and Context
While celebrated by many, the federal date (post-Thanksgiving, often coinciding with Black Friday) has drawn criticism from some Native voices. It’s seen as insensitive because Thanksgiving is observed as a “National Day of Mourning” by groups like the United American Indians of New England, symbolizing colonization and loss. Critics argue it prioritizes consumerism over genuine reflection.
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