Celebrating Native American Heritage Month is a meaningful way to honor and recognize the rich history, cultures, and contributions of Native American peoples. Here are some ways you can celebrate:
- Learn About Native American History and Culture:
- Read books, articles, and watch documentaries about Native American history and culture.
- Visit local museums or cultural centers that feature Native American exhibits.
- Tomaquag Museum- 390A Summit Rd., Exeter, RI 02822 (401)491-9063
- Peace Dale Museum of Art and Culture-1058 Kingstown Rd., South Kingstown, RI 02879 (401) 783-5711
- Museum of Natural History and Planetarium-1000 Elmwood Ave, Providence, RI 02907 (401) 680-7221
- Block Island Historical Society-18 Old Town Rd, New Shoreham, RI 02807 (401) 466-2481
- Haffenreffer Museum of Anthropology Gallery at Manning Hall-21 Prospect Street, Providence, RI 02903 (401) 863-2065
- Rhode Island Historical Society-110 Benevolent St, Providence, RI 02906 (401)-331-8575
- Mashantucket Pequot Museum & Research Center-110 Pequot Trail, Mashantucket, CT 06338 (860) 396-6910
- Educate yourself on the diverse traditions, languages, and histories of different Native American tribes.
- Explore local historical landmarks in the area
- Canonchet Memorial-Corner of Beach Street and Ocean Rd., Narragansett, RI 02882
- Great Swamp Management Area-277 Great Neck Road, South Kingstown, RI 02892
- Great Swamp Monument-Route 2, West Kingston, South Kingstown, RI
- Royal Indian Burial Ground-Pow Wow Road, Charlestown, RI 02813
- Jenks Park-Broad Street, Central Falls, RI 02863
- Miantonomi Memorial Park-Hillside Avenue, Newport, RI 02840
- Narragansett Indian Monument-Kingstown Road and Strathmore Street, Narragansett, RI 02879
- Ninigret Park-7 Park Lane, Charlestown, RI 02813
- Pettaquamscutt Rock, Treaty Rock Park, off Middlebridge Rd., South Kingstown, RI 02879
- Pierce Park and Riverwalk-High Street, Central Falls, RI 02863
- Roger Williams Landing Place Monument-Gano Street, Providence, RI 02905
- Attend Native American Events:
- Look for events in your community, such as powwows, festivals, and cultural performances.
- Attend lectures, workshops, or panel discussions led by Native American speakers and experts.
- Support Native American Businesses:
- Purchase goods and services from Native American-owned businesses.
- Sly Fox Den Too-4349 S County Trail, Charlestown, RI 02813 (774) 327-8167
- The Purple Shell-purpleshellgifts@gmail.com (401) 364-8088
- Sowams Heritage Area Tours-23 Bridge Street, Warren, RI 02885 (508)-837-9029
- Look for Native American artists and artisans and buy their artwork or crafts.
- Narragansett Tribe's 13th Annual Native Arts Festival-November 26, 20231:00 pm - 4:00 pm
- Support initiatives that aim to empower Native American entrepreneurs.
- Purchase goods and services from Native American-owned businesses.
Remember that it's crucial to approach Native American Heritage Month with respect and sensitivity, avoiding cultural appropriation and stereotypes. Always seek to amplify Native voices and perspectives, and consider it as an ongoing commitment to learning and understanding.
