November is Native American Heritage Month!

November is National Native American Heritage Month!  The 2009 theme is "Pride in Our Heritage, Honor to Our Ancestors."

Browse the display of Native American books at your Chattanooga State Library.  Find more library resources at the library's Native American research guide: http://bit.ly/1eatYc

The U.S. government's web site about Native American Heritage Month has a collection of information about exhibits and web links: http://nativeamericanheritagemonth.gov

The first paragraph of the 2009 Presidential Proclamation for this month states:

"The indigenous peoples of North America -- the First Americans -- have woven rich and diverse threads into the tapestry of our Nation's heritage. Throughout their long history on this great land, they have faced moments of profound triumph and tragedy alike. During National Native American Heritage Month, we recognize their many accomplishments, contributions, and sacrifices, and we pay tribute to their participation in all aspects of American society."

The history of Native Americans continues to be a subject dear to my heart.  Curiosity struck me early as I grew up in the Great Plains and visited memorial sites where Native Americans and the U.S. government collided in battle.  Now living in Tennessee, my curiosity about Native American history continues as I learn more about the Trail of Tears and Ross's Landing.  My wife's grandfather was Cherokee, which has added a personal interest in the pride and heritage of Native Americans for my family.

"Pride in Our Heritage, Honor to Our Ancestors" - Celebrate the 2009 National Native American Heritage Month.  Read a book or find out more information online.