ALCOAST 431/24 - NOV 2024 NATIONAL NATIVE AMERICAN HERITAGE MONTH - AFFIRMING NATIVE VOICES

R 141329Z NOV 24   MID120001543656U
FM COMDT COGARD WASHINGTON DC
TO ALCOAST
BT
UNCLAS
ALCOAST 431/24
SSIC 5350
SUBJ: NATIONAL NATIVE AMERICAN HERITAGE MONTH - AFFIRMING NATIVE
VOICES
1. National Native American Heritage Month is observed each November
to celebrate the history, traditions, and contributions of Native
Americans and Alaskan Natives (NA/AN) to our country. The origins of
this observance trace back to early 20th-century efforts by Native
American rights advocates including Dr. Arthur C. Parker, a member
of the Seneca tribe. In 1990, President George H. W. Bush signed a
joint resolution designating November as National American Indian
Heritage Month.
2. This year's theme, "Affirming Native Voices: Visibility,
Leadership, Service," encourages us to magnify the importance of
Native American perspectives, honor their leadership in various
fields, and celebrate their deep-rooted tradition of service.
3. Throughout our Nation's history, Native Americans have answered
the call to serve in the U.S. Armed Forces. During World War II,
several Native American women joined the Coast Guard SPARS as part
of the "Sooner Squadron," including Nellie Locust, Corrine Koshiway
Goslin, Lula Mae O'Bannon, Mildred Marjorie Cleghorn Womack, June
Townsend Gentry, and Lula Belle Everidge. Their leadership, pride in
their heritage, and American patriotism exemplify the importance of
recognizing and valuing diverse perspectives to make our service
stronger, more effective, and more inclusive.
4. The Coast Guard is proud to partner with NA/AN communities
through various initiatives. As we celebrate National Native
American Heritage Month, we continue to honor the service and
leadership of NA/AN members within our workforce and across the
country. I encourage you to further explore the traditions,
histories, and perspectives of NA/AN communities by hosting and
attending events and engaging in discussions that celebrate this
heritage. You can access the following resource as a start:
(Copy and Paste URL Below into Browser)

https://americanindian.si.edu/online-resources

5. POC: COMDT (CG-00H), Ms. Leslie Jones, (202) 372-4510,
Leslie.Y.Jones@uscg.mil.
6. ADM Linda L. Fagan, Commandant (CCG), sends.
7. Internet release is authorized.