November is Native American Heritage Month. Officially designated in 1990 but tracing back to the early 1900s, it is a time to celebrate the stories and heritage of the Indigenous peoples whose cultures, traditions, and achievements have shaped our nation. We are particularly mindful of this in the Dakotas as we are home to 14 federally recognized tribes. 

Recently, Bryan Tener, the Director of Contextual Evangelism & Church Planting for Discipleship Ministries, shared an article outlining some of the ways in which we can not only celebrate this month but also honor and support our Indigenous brothers and sisters throughout the year. 

He writes: 

As followers of Christ, we are called to live out our baptismal vows by resisting injustice and oppression in all forms. One step toward this calling is listening to and learning from the stories of Indigenous peoples who have been systematically silenced and marginalized throughout history. We can begin the journey toward healing and partnership by building genuine relationships that start with listening.

Here are three action steps anyone can take during Native American Heritage Month—and beyond—to honor Indigenous peoples and foster deeper relationships:

1. Learn the history of the land your church occupies and acknowledge it regularly.

Take time to research which Indigenous peoples originally stewarded the land where your congregation is located. Many resources are available online, such as Native Land Digital (native-land.ca), to help you discover the Indigenous history in your area. Acknowledge this history during your worship services, church communications, and educational events. This simple practice of acknowledgment creates space for awareness and respect. This first step is just the beginning. To go further, research the land back movements occurring across the country and even through the United Methodist Church.

2. Support Native artists and storytellers; host a community event; amplify Native-owned businesses.

3. Support Indigenous-led initiatives and partner with Native organizations.

There are many Indigenous-led initiatives focused on uplifting peoples and working for justice, equity, and access to the things of life. Look for ways your congregation can support these efforts—whether through financial contributions, volunteering, or building partnerships based on mutual respect. By standing in solidarity with Native communities, we live out our call to seek justice and offer support. To go a step further, research “Missing Murdered Indigenous Women and Children” and the work that is being done to raise awareness of the disproportional rate at which this violence occurs.

To find addtional resources and read the full article, visit their website.

Dakotas United Women in Faith sponsored a webinar about Missing, Murdered Indigenous Women this fall. Check out the article and recording here.