Native American Indian & Alaskan Heritage Month

Multiculturalism refers to the recognition and acknowledgment of cultural diversity within a dominant political culture. It encompasses the idea that cultures, races, and ethnicities—particularly those of minority groups—deserve special acknowledgment of their differences. Let’s explore this concept further:

1. Cultural Pluralism: In modern democracies, multiculturalism is a response to the fact that societies comprise members with diverse cultural viewpoints, practices, and contributions. It recognizes that cultural pluralism exists and seeks to include the views and contributions of diverse members of society while respecting their differences. This stands in contrast to the traditional view of assimilation into a unified national culture (often depicted as a “melting pot”)¹.

2. Compensation for Past Exclusion: Multiculturalism also serves as a way to compensate cultural groups for historical exclusion, discrimination, and oppression. Many minority cultural groups have faced denigration of their contributions and identities in the past. Acknowledging their unique perspectives and contributions is a step toward rectifying past injustices¹.

3. Challenges to Liberal Democracy: Multiculturalism challenges the abstract view of liberal democracy, which treats all citizens equally under the law. While formal equality is essential, multiculturalism recognizes that citizens are not equal in all aspects of society. Factors such as race, religion, class, and sex play a role beyond the category of “citizen.” Rather than assimilation, multiculturalism embraces the metaphor of a “tossed salad,” where cultural differences coexist harmoniously¹.

In summary, multiculturalism fosters an inclusive environment where cultural differences are valued, and historical injustices are acknowledged. It contributes to a richer and more vibrant society by celebrating diversity and promoting understanding among various cultural groups².

Learn more      1.britannica.com     2. thoughtco.com     3.en.wikipedia.org

Native American Indians and Native Alaskans have achieved significant milestones in recent years. Here are some notable successes:

1. Investment in Indigenous Communities for Climate Resilience:

   • The Biden-Harris Administration is investing $20 million to support federally recognized Tribes and Alaska Native corporations and villages. This funding, made possible by President Biden’s Inflation Reduction Act, aims to help these communities access emerging private markets for forest resilience, climate mitigation, water quality, carbon sequestration, and more. It recognizes the importance of Indigenous Knowledge and strengthens local economies¹.

2. Aboriginal Autonomy and Land Ownership:

   • Since the 1960s and 1970s, aboriginal autonomy has rebounded in Alaska. The Alaska Native Claims Settlement Act (ANCSA) officially ended native land ownership claims while creating regional corporations that administer approximately one-ninth of Alaskan territory. These corporations are owned by the native peoples themselves².

3. Educational Attainment:

   • Over the past few decades, American Indians/Alaska Natives have made gains in key education areas, including increased educational attainment. While gaps in academic performance still exist, progress has been made³.

4. Environmental Stewardship and Co-Stewardship Agreements:

   • In fiscal year 2023, the USDA Forest Service and Tribes executed more than 120 co-stewardship agreements, representing a total investment of $68 million. These agreements include self-determination agreements, recognizing the importance of Indigenous Knowledge and providing Tribes with improved access to USDA programs¹.

5. National American Indian/Alaska Natives Heritage Month:

   • November is designated as National American Indian/Alaska Natives Heritage Month. It’s a time to celebrate, honor, and reflect on the rich and diverse history, culture, and heritage of American Indians and Alaska Natives⁴.

6. 40 Under 40 Recognition:

   • The 40 Under 40 award recognizes American Indians, Alaska Natives, and Native Hawaiians under the age of 40 who have demonstrated leadership, initiative, and dedication while making significant contributions in their professions and communities ⁵.
      
7. New National Monument near Grand Canyon: Biden Creates New National Monument near Grand Canyon, Citing Tribal Heritage, Climate Concerns. Declaring it good “not only for Arizona but for the planet,” President Joe Biden on Tuesday signed a national monument designation for the greater Grand Canyon, turning the decades-long visions of Native American tribes and environmentalists into reality. 11.

These successes reflect the resilience, contributions, and ongoing efforts of Native American Indians and Native Alaskans to thrive, preserve their cultures, and create positive change in their communities.

Learn more

1. usda.gov    2. pbs.org    3. nces.ed.gov    4. usda.gov    5. ncaied.org    6. thecollector.com    7. acf.hhs.gov    8. oregon.gov    9. nhsa.org    10. fs.usda.gov    11. apnews.com