Native American Heritage Month

America is a vast land of many cultures dating back thousands of years to the original inhabitants of the land. The history and heritage of Native Americans, Alaska Natives, Native Hawaiians, and Island communities are part of all national parks today. Throughout the year, and especially during November during Native American Heritage Month, the National Park Service and our partners celebrate together the rich traditions, languages, and contributions of Indigenous people.

As we celebrate Native American Heritage, take a moment, wherever you are, to listen to the wind and the stories it carries. The history played out on public lands, like Grand Canyon National Park, has been dramatic and difficult, but learning from our shared past, present, and future will bring this nation together.

According to the Department of Justice, American Indian and Alaska Native women are missing and murdered at a rate of more than 10 times the national average. Red Shawl Day is an annual national effort to bring attention to acts of violence committed

Ways to Help and Raise Awareness

Being aware and spreading awareness of this issue can save lives.

Report suspicious activities when visiting public lands to local law enforcement.

Wear a red shawl or red clothing the day and week of Red Shawl Day

Join the conversation on social media using #RedShawlDay and #NPSIndigenous.against Indigenous people. Throughout the week surrounding November 19, people are encouraged to wear red as a symbol of the loss of sacred lifeblood through violence.   

The National Park Service is part of an all-of-government effort to bring attention and action to missing and murdered Indigenous people. America's national parks are part of and surrounded by many Indigenous communities. As part of this observance, you may see National Park Service staff wearing red shawls.