Each November, we take time to honor the history, culture, and contributions of Native American and Indigenous peoples across the United States. Native American Heritage Month is more than a recognition of the past—it’s an opportunity to learn, listen, and appreciate the rich traditions that continue to shape our nation today.

Here in Florida, we are part of lands once home to the Seminole and Miccosukee peoples, whose resilience and deep connection to nature remain an important part of our state’s identity. From the Everglades to the Gulf Coast, their influence can be found in our stories, place names, and the very landscape we call home.

This month invites all of us to explore the diverse histories and experiences of Native communities—not just through textbooks, but through art, storytelling, and living traditions. It’s a reminder that Indigenous cultures are not relics of the past, but thriving communities contributing to modern life in meaningful ways.

You can honor Native American Heritage Month by visiting museums or cultural centers, reading books by Native authors, supporting Indigenous artists and businesses, or simply taking a moment to learn about the first people who called this land home. Every act of awareness helps build a more inclusive and informed community—something we can all take pride in, right here in Horizon West.

How to Learn More

• Ah-Tah-Thi-Ki Museum (Clewiston, FL): A Smithsonian-affiliated museum dedicated to preserving and sharing Seminole Tribe history and culture.

• The Native Learning Center: Offers free webinars and resources from the Seminole Tribe of Florida.

• Smithsonian National Museum of the American Indian (Virtual): Explore online exhibits and educational materials year-round.

• Read Native Voices: Authors like Joy Harjo, Louise Erdrich, and Robin Wall Kimmerer share powerful modern Indigenous perspectives.

• Support Indigenous Artisans: Look for Native-owned businesses and certified Native-made art when shopping this season.