November is Native American Heritage Month, the federally designated month to celebrate the culture, accomplishments, and contributions of people who were the first inhabitants of the United States.

The month is a time to celebrate rich and diverse cultures, traditions, and histories and to acknowledge the important contributions of Native people. Native American Heritage Month is also an opportune time to educate the general public about tribes, to raise a general awareness about the unique challenges Native people have faced both historically and in the present, and the ways in which tribal citizens have worked to conquer these challenges.

In combination with the information found at Connecticut Children’s Collective, here are some great resources for learning more about Native Americans in Connecticut and around the country:

Native Footsteps
The story of Connecticut’s native tribes is told in the wind and woods – and now seems an especially good time to find the trail and follow it. From museum exhibits to re-created encampments, the tale of the region’s American Indians is rich and fascinating.
https://www.ctvisit.com/getaways/native-footsteps

Pequot Museum
Although the museum is closed for the 2020 season, you can visit the website to learn more!
http://www.pequotmuseum.org/eBook.aspx
http://www.pequotmuseum.org/PermanentExhibits.aspx

For more information and resources:
National Congress of American Indians
National Park Service
PBS Documentaries and More

On November 17, 2020 I was so grateful to join The Mohegan Tribe as they made their annual donation of 100 turkeys to the City of New London. It is wonderful to see our communities coming together to lend a hand to those in need.