November is Native American Heritage Month, a time to honor American Indians and Alaska Natives. This year’s theme is “Growing Native Leaders: Enhancing Seven Generations.”
The United States is home to 5.2 million American Indians and Alaska Natives, or about 2 percent of the population, according to U.S. Census data.
More than 4,000 Postal Service employees identify themselves as American Indian or Alaska Natives.
The first American Indian Day was held in New York in May 1916. Other states added their own celebrations over the years.
In 1990, President George H.W. Bush signed legislation designating November as National American Indian Heritage Month. Similar proclamations have been issued each year since 1994.
More information is available on the Postal Service’s Multicultural Resources site, as well as NativeAmericanHeritageMonth.gov.