In this month's "Let's Talk Human Rights" blog:
Last month, the Iowa Commission of Native American Affairs celebrated the inaugural signing of the proclamation for Indigenous Peoples Day on Monday, October 8, 2018.
November is Native American Month and we are also celebrating Iowa Native American Veterans Day on November 23, 2018. Please join us as we honor Native Americans and their important contributions in the past and present.
Written by Jill Avery, Office of Native American Affairs
Proclamation:
Native American Month and Iowa Native American Veterans Day 2018
 The Proclamation reads:
State of Iowa, Executive Department, in the Name and by the Authority of the State of Iowa
PROCLAMATION
Whereas, November has been declared Native American Month; and
Whereas, it was the indigenous people of Iowa who first consecrated the ground on which we now live and grow and flourish, and whose petitions for bountiful harvest and protection from the elements are still being heard; and
Whereas, the courage, determination and spirit of Native Americans have strengthened and continue to fortify the United States, including the United States Armed Forces; and
Whereas, Native Americans have volunteered to serve in the United States Armed Forces and have served with valor in all of the nation’s military actions from the Revolutionary War through the present day; and
Whereas, Native Americans have made distinct and important contributions to the United States and the world in many fields, including government, agriculture, medicine, music and art, and
Whereas, public elementary and secondary schools are encouraged to enhance student understanding of Native Americans by providing classroom instruction focusing on accurate history, achievements, and contributions, and
Whereas, Native Americans of Iowa are an integral and venerable part of Iowa’s population; and
Whereas, this recognition will encourage self-esteem, pride and self-awareness in Native Americans of all ages:
Now, therefore, I, Kim Reynolds, Governor of the State of Iowa, do herby proclaim November 2018 as
NATIVE AMERICAN MONTH
And do further proclaim November 23, 2018, as
IOWA NATIVE AMERICAN VETERANS DAY
In Iowa, and encourage Iowans to celebrate and learn about the contributions of Iowa’s Native American population.
Indigenous Peoples Day Proclamation Signing Ceremony - October 8, 2018
 From left (front row): Commissioner Vicky Apala-Cuevas, Chair Karen Mackey, Governor Kim Reynolds, and Commissioner Kelly Montijo Fink; from left (back row): Commissioner Timothy Perkins, Commissioner Crystal Davis, and Commissioner Joe Coulter 
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