ALCOAST 377/18 - NOV 2018 NATIONAL NATIVE AMERICAN HERITAGE MONTH

R 010712 NOV 18
FM COMDT COGARD WASHINGTON DC//CG-00H//
TO ALCOAST
UNCLAS //N05350//
ALCOAST 377/18
COMDTNOTE 5350
SUBJ: NATIONAL NATIVE AMERICAN HERITAGE MONTH
1. Each year during National Native American Heritage Month, we honor and celebrate the
profound ways that the First Americans and their descendants helped to develop our
country’s culture, traditions, and character. This year’s observance theme is
“Sovereignty, Trust, and Resilience.” For hundreds of years, members of the 573 federally
recognized American Indian and Alaska Native tribes, and others not formally cited, have
created and sustained thriving systems for the protection of natural resources, building
communities, and strengthening the government-to-government relationship between the
sovereign Indian nations and the United States.
2. The rich diversity of American Indians and Alaska Natives is reflected in their
ongoing and lasting contributions to the betterment of our communities and strengthening
of our Nation. Native Americans have served with distinction in the Coast Guard and
other military services for more than 150 years. Their enduring legacy of service to
our country is a beacon to all who face adversity, yet bring strength, healing, and hope
to generations of Americans.
3. The Coast Guard’s long-standing relationship with tribal nations is evident in the
Service’s involvement in remote communities that live a subsistence lifestyle and rely
heavily on the natural resources the Coast Guard is committed to protecting. School and
community involvement through Partnership in Education programs and other outreach
initiatives further connect the Service to many of these resilient communities.
4. During National Native American Heritage Month, all Coast Guard units and commands
are encouraged to participate in activities and special events that highlight the
contributions of Native Americans and Alaska Natives in service to our Nation. For more
information about National Native American Heritage Month, contact Ms. Gwendolyn White,
(202) 372-4519 or Gwendolyn.E.White@uscg.mil.
5. Dr. Terri A. Dickerson, Director, Civil Rights Directorate, sends.
6. Internet release is authorized.