Honoring Native American and Indigenous Peoples Heritage Month

Native American and Indigenous Peoples represent distinct nations and communities with their own histories, cultures, languages, and traditions. Their knowledge, leadership, and contributions continue to shape our workplaces and society. In the United States, the 2020 Census counted 9.7 million people who identified as American Indian or Alaska Native, alone or in combination with another race, representing 2.9 percent of the population.

Native American Heritage Month (NAHM), observed in November, honors the cultures, traditions, and contributions of American Indian and Alaska Native communities. Beyond the American context, the month is often expanded to recognize Indigenous Peoples more broadly. Indigenous Peoples’ Day, observed on October 12 in 2026, provides another opportunity to recognize Indigenous peoples and deepen understanding of their histories and contemporary experiences. Native American Heritage Day takes place on the Friday after Thanksgiving, November 27 in 2026.

This guide brings these opportunities for recognition together to celebrate Native American and Indigenous heritage and encourage learning throughout the year. Meaningful recognition includes honoring cultural traditions, amplifying Indigenous voices, acknowledging historical and ongoing challenges, and respecting the distinct identities and perspectives of individual communities.