Native American Heritage Month begins a month of celebration around the traditions, languages, stories, and relationships the University of Utah shares with the state’s eight tribal nations and Indigenous, American Indian, and Native students, staff, faculty, and communities.
The national awareness month, held each November, honors the rich histories, culture and heritage of these tribes who deeply enrich the quality and character of America. The annual observance is a time to recognize and appreciate the enduring traditions, vibrant cultures, and diverse languages that have shaped the United States’ history. It also serves as an opportunity to raise awareness about the challenges Native communities continue to face and to support efforts that promote cultural preservation.
“This month offers a meaningful opportunity to uplift Indigenous voices, preserve cultural heritage and foster greater awareness and appreciation across communities,” said Samantha Eldridge, Director of the Center for Native Excellence and Tribal Engagement. “The histories, achievements, and influences of Native communities are deeply woven into the fabric of our society—and we encourage you to celebrate Indigeneity with us, not just in November, but every day.”
Students, staff and faculty from the U’s Center for Native Excellence and Tribal Engagement will join Salt Lake City Mayor Erin Mendenhall and the Utah Division of Indian Affairs in a kickoff on Nov. 1 from 10 to 11:30 a.m. in the A Ray Olpin Union Corridor & Ballroom East in the Union Building. The event begins with the posting of the tribal flags of Utah to the Union Hall of Flags followed by the presentation of the Utah Intertribal Color Guard and honored veteran.
Please visit the Native American Heritage Month webpage for a full listing of educational events, cultural programs and community activities that highlight the achievements, stories and resilience of Indigenous peoples throughout the month.
Native American Heritage Month events
Unveiling of Tribal Flags in Union
Nov. 1, 10-11:30 am
Ray A Olpin Student Union
Native American Heritage Month kickoff event with Salt Lake City Mayor Erin Mendenhall
Supaman and DJ Element live in concert
Nov. 2, 5-8 pm
The Urban Indian Center of Salt Lake proudly presents Supaman and DJ Element.
Restoring Ancestral Winds: Empowering Communities
Nov. 4, 8 am-5 pm
SJ Quinney College of Law, 383 South S University St., 6th Floor
Hosted by Restoring Ancestral Winds, the annual conference is dedicated to addressing the challenges and solutions related to domestic violence and sexual assault within Native American communities.
https://restoringawcoalition.coalitionmanager.org/eventmanager/trainingevent/details/17
Smoke Signals Film Screening
Nov. 4, 6:30 pm
Enjoy a special screening of Smoke Signals, a ground-breaking film that celebrates Native American storytelling, culture and heritage.
Indigenous Gallery Walk
Nov. 4-29
Ray A Olpin Student Union Front Lobby & Pano East
Featuring Indigenous/Native artists throughout the month.
Traditional Lunch Takeover at Kahlert Village
Nov. 7, 12:30-3 pm
Kahlert Village Dining Hall
Dining Services is partnering with the Center for Native Excellence & Tribal Engagement to bring a taste of Native American cuisine to Kahlert Village.
Intertribal Student Association (ITSA) Native American Awareness Week
Nov. 11-15
Monday: rocc your moccs
Tuesday: jewelry day
Wednesday: Ribbon shirt/skirt (photoshoot)
Friday: movie screening at NETE at 5:30 pm
AI/AN Alumni Mixer
Nov. 20, 5:30-7:30 pm
Red Butte Garden
OACC Medicine Bag Workshop
Nov. 21, 5 pm
Helix Building
Workshop to create medicine bags.
Tatanka Means "Laughter is Good Medicine"
Nov. 21
Enjoy an evening of comedy with award-winning Native American comedian and actor, Tatanka Means.
Intertribal Student Association Friendsgiving
Nov. 22, 5-7 pm
Potluck at the Center for Native Excellence & Tribal Engagement