It's American Indian & Alaska Native Heritage Month
The first American Indian Day was celebrated in May 1916 in New York. Red Fox James, a member of the Blackfeet Nation, rode horseback from state to state to get endorsements from 24 state governments to have a day to honor American Indians.
In 1990, President George H.W. Bush signed a joint congressional resolution designating November 1990 as “National American Indian Heritage Month.” Similar proclamations have been issued every year since 1994, and we now refer to this celebration as “American Indian and Alaska Native Heritage Month.”
 Did You Know?
6.9 million
The nation’s American Indian and Alaska Native population in 2018, including those of more than one race.
10.1 million
The projected American Indian and Alaska Native population, including those of more than one race, on July 1, 2060. They would constitute 2.5 percent of the total population.
141,438
The estimated number of single-race American Indian and Alaska Native civilian veterans of the U.S. armed forces in 2017.
573
The number of federally recognized Indian tribes in 2018.
The 2020 Census Is Coming Soon
As we gear up for the 2020 Census, the U.S. Census Bureau recognizes the unique challenges associated with conducting the census as accurately as possible in American Indian and Alaska Native areas. To tackle this challenge, we began reaching out to these communities' years in advance to build awareness. This work includes coordinating closely with tribal governments to accurately count tribal populations on and off reservations. It is especially important because the Remote Alaska Operation kicks off the 2020 Census. This first enumeration activity will set the tone for the entire nation.
By participating in the 2020 Census, you can help provide an accurate count of American Indians and Alaska Natives. Click the link below to learn more about the upcoming 2020 Census and find resources for tribal communities.
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