South Raleigh News

Governor Roy Cooper has declared November as American Indian Heritage Month in North Carolina. This month-long observance honors the history, heritage, and contributions of the state's eight recognized tribes: Coharie, Eastern Band of Cherokee, Haliwa-Saponi, Lumbee, Meherrin, Occaneechi Band of the Saponi Nation, Sappony, and Waccamaw-Siouan. It also recognizes four urban Indian organizations: Cumberland County Association for Indian People, Triangle Native American Society, and Guilford and Metrolina Native American Associations.

"This month, we take time to honor the culture and history of our American Indian tribes who have been here for generations," said Governor Cooper. "We are grateful for their many contributions to our state and we look forward to continuing support for our indigenous communities."

The theme for this year is “NC United Tribes – 50 Years of Tribal Unity,” reflecting the strength of North Carolina’s recognized tribes and Indian organizations. The state is home to over 130,000 American Indians. North Carolina ranks second in American Indian population east of the Mississippi River and seventh nationwide. In 2021, NC Department of Administration Secretary Pam Brewington Cashwell became the first American Indian woman to lead a state cabinet agency in North Carolina.

“It is an honor each year to not only celebrate the traditions and culture of American Indians but also to share our history and heritage with fellow North Carolinians,” said DOA Secretary Cashwell. “This month heightens our visibility in society to let communities know that we are still here as a people and as tribes united.”

For over five decades, the NC Department of Administration’s Commission of Indian Affairs has served as a resource hub offering information on housing, education opportunities, scholarships, health care services, and workforce development to American Indian communities. Established by the NC General Assembly in 1971, it remains committed to providing resources at local, state, and federal levels.

In celebration of American Indian Heritage Month this year, several events will be held through collaboration with various organizations including the NC Museum of History. The 29th Annual American Indian Heritage Celebration will feature both virtual Education Day activities on November 22 and an in-person event at the North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences on November 23. These events will showcase storytelling along with demonstrations highlighting artistry from different tribes across North Carolina.

Further details about these celebrations can be found on the North Carolina Museum of History website.

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