Books you should be reading during Native American Heritage Month
November is Native American Heritage Month, which started as a week-long celebration in 1986 and evolved into a month-long celebration. Indigenous peoples have a long history, rich culture and stories to tell that often go unheard. We’ve put together a book list that shares some of those stories, traditions and experiences of North America’s native populations.
An Indigenous Peoples' History of the United States for Young People adapted by Jean Mendoza & Debbie Reese
An adaption of Roxanne Dunbar-Ortiz’s An Indigenous People’s History of the United States, which tells the history of North America’s native tribal nations.
#NotYourPrincess: Voices of Native American Women edited by Lisa Charleyboy & Mary Beth Leatherdale
A collection of poems, essays, interviews and art about the experiences of Indigenous women, providing insight into the lives of those who are often overlooked.
Imaginary Borders by Xiuhtezcatl Martinez
Earth Guardians Youth Director and hip-hop artist Xiuhtezcatl Martinez shows us how his music feeds his environmental activism and vice versa.
When We Were Alone by David Robertson
A children's book about the importance of Indigenous culture, difficult times throughout history and about strength.
Indigenous American Women: Decolonization, Empowerment, Activism by Devon Abbott Mihesuah
A look at the ongoing struggles of Indigenous women today that explores how they see themselves and how they are seen by others.
Dreaming in Indian: Contemporary Native American Voices edited by Lisa Charleyboy & Mary Beth Leatherdale
Writings and art from groundbreaking Native artists about growing up Indigenous in today's society.
As Long as Grass Grows by Dina Gilio-Whitaker
A story about environmental injustice through the eyes of Indigenous peoples that highlights the important leadership of Indigenous women.
Carry: A Memoir of Survival on Stolen Land by Toni
Jensen
A memoir about the experiences of a young woman that highlights Indigenous rights and the impact of guns and environmental injustice on native populations.
How We Go Home: Voices from Indigenous North America by Sara Sinclair
First-hand accounts of the ongoing contemporary struggles to preserve Native lands and lives.
Crazy Brave: A Memoir by Joy Harjo
A memoir from the first Native American Poet Laureate in the U.S., who details her journey grounded in tribal myth, ancestry, music and poetry.
If you prefer films, check out these new Indigenous films by and about Native women here.
Representation matters. Discover how you can marginalized groups by running for office here.