Celebrate Native American Heritage Month with PBS

Every year, our Nation pauses to reflect on the profound ways the First Americans have shaped our country’s character and culture. The first stewards of our environment, early voices for the values that define our Nation, and models of government to our Founding Fathers — American Indians and Alaska Natives helped build the very fabric of America.

Today, their spirit and many contributions continue to enrich our communities and strengthen our country. During National Native American Heritage Month, we honor their legacy, and we recommit to strengthening our nation-to-nation partnerships.

KUVO’s parent organization Rocky Mountain PBS is dedicating several programs throughout the month of November to honor Native American Heritage Month:

• Nov. 6, 7:30 PM, Repeat Nov. 7, 2 PM – Arts District: Characteristics of Contemporary Native American Art
• Nov. 9, 3 PM – Independent Lens: “Indian Relay” follows teams from different American Indian communities during horse racing season
• Nov. 25, 9 PM – Urban Rez: Explore the controversial legacy and modern-day repercussions of the Urban Relocation Program
• Nov. 27, 8 PM – Arts District: In observation of the 150th anniversary of the Sand Creek Massacre, meet a Sand Creek artist who pays tribute to the past.
• Nov. 27, 7 PM, Repeat Nov 28, 2 PM – Colorado Experience: Sand Creek Massacre

*All times denoted in MST.

And tune in to KUVO/KVJZ every Sunday at 7 AM for InDigitNess Voice featuring Native American community news, interviews, story narratives, and Indian music.

As we celebrate the rich traditions of the original peoples of what is now the United States, we cannot forget the long and unfortunate chapters of violence, discrimination, and deprivation they had to endure. For far too long, the heritage we honor today was disrespected and devalued, and Native Americans were told their land, religion, and language were not theirs to keep. We cannot ignore these events or erase their consequences for Native peoples — but as we work together to forge a brighter future, the lessons of our past can help reaffirm the principles that guide our Nation today.

Text taken from President Obama’s proclamation of November 2014 as National Native American Heritage Month.

To learn more about Native American Heritage Month, click here.