November 4, 2020
Media Contacts:
Mark Miller, Administrator, Office of Public Information, 410-313-2022
Yolanda F. Sonnier, Administrator, Office of Human Rights, 410-313-6430
ELLICOTT CITY, MD – The Howard County Office of Human Rights, in partnership with local business Nava Be Diné, is honoring Native American Heritage Month (NAHM) with a month-long, virtual celebration recognizing the culture, traditions and history of American Indians and Alaska Natives. Last month, the County observed its first Indigenous Peoples’ Day, which will now be recognized in place of Columbus Day.
"Howard County is a place where every resident deserves to feel included, represented, and valued," said Howard County Executive Calvin Ball. "Native American culture is embedded in our nomenclature and our geography. As we celebrate Native American Heritage Month this November, I invite you to embrace this wonderful opportunity to learn more about the people who lived on this land before us and their contributions to our community, state, and nation."
Geared toward residents of all ages and backgrounds, NAMH events scheduled throughout the month of November, will include learning how to hoop dance and cook Navajo Frybread and Mohawk Akwesasne Corn Soup, storytelling and more. The month-long celebration will conclude on November 30th with a “We Are Still Here” panel discussion, featuring Native American equity workers, artists and community leaders conversing about Native American cultural resilience, civil rights and the survival of Indigenous communities. For a complete NAMH schedule of events, visit https://tinyurl.com/HOCONAMH.
“I have been looking forward to celebrating Native American Heritage Month since County Executive Ball’s recent announcement of the observance of Indigenous People’s Day,” said Office of Human Rights Administrator Yolanda F. Sonnier. “The Office of Human Rights is proud to partner with local Native American activists, artists, businesses and residents to present a series of events that recognize and affirm the legacy and contributions of Native Americans.”
“NAHM provides the chance to explore and experience cultures that are indigenous to this land we call the United States of America,” said Ani Begay Auld of Nava Be Diné. “Five hundred
seventy-four federally recognized tribes strong, we each come with our own languages and traditions to share.”
For questions and/or more information about NAMH or the Office of Human Rights, contact the office at 410-313-6430 or email OHRoutreach@howardcountymd.gov.