ALCOAST 398/20 - NOV 2020 2020 NATIONAL NATIVE AMERICAN HERITAGE MONTH

R 031513 NOV 20
FM COMDT COGARD WASHINGTON DC//CG-00H//
TO ALCOAST
UNCLAS //N05350//
ALCOAST 398/20
COMDTNOTE 5350
SUBJ:  2020 NATIONAL NATIVE AMERICAN HERITAGE MONTH
1. Since 1990, the month of November has been recognized as National Native
American Heritage Month. The theme for this year’s observance from the Society
of American Indian Government Employees (SAIGE) is “Sovereignty is Sacred:
Sharing our Rights and Cultures.” During this time, we take the opportunity to
honor and celebrate all Native Americans and to acknowledge the special place
sovereign Native Communities have within our country.
2. The federal government recognizes 574 American Indian and Alaska Native
tribes and villages in the United States. As sovereign entities, Native
American tribes have a unique relationship with the federal government.
The Coast Guard plays an important role in this government-to-government
framework, partnering with Tribal communities to manage and regulate natural
resources, to protect lives and vessels at sea, and to jointly manage
emergency response, navigation, and waterways. Since the Coast Guard
maintains a presence in many small coastal towns, we are often the primary
representative of the federal government that interacts daily with Native
Communities and Tribal members. In order to respect the rights and
responsibilities of the tribes, the Coast Guard, and all federal agencies,
engage in frequent consultation with Tribal governments.
3. During National Native American Heritage Month, all Coast Guard units and
commands are encouraged to participate in activities and special events that
highlight the people in, and the strong partnerships with, our Tribal
Communities. In light of public health guidance during the COVID-19 pandemic,
please follow guidelines for in-person gatherings and use remote collaboration
platforms, websites, newsletters, and/or social media to celebrate this observance.
4. For more information about National Native American Heritage Month, contact
Mr. Juan Torres, (202) 372-4594 or Juan.L.Torres@uscg.mil.
5. Dr. Terri A. Dickerson, Civil Rights Director, sends.
6. Internet release is authorized.