National American Indian and Alaska Native Heritage Month
The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) observes National American Indian and Alaska Native Heritage Month during the month of November. The
annual theme is announced by the Defense Equal Opportunity Management Institute.
From generation to generation, American Indians and Alaska Natives (AI/ANs) handed down invaluable cultural
knowledge and rich traditions in art, folk tales, literature, religion, language
and American history, which continue to thrive in AI/AN communities and
across our country today. AI/ANs also have served in the U.S. Armed Forces
with honor and distinction, defending the security of our Nation with their lives.
Historically, AI/ANs have the highest record of service per capita compared
to other ethnic groups.
According to the U.S. Department of Interior, the United States has 567 federally
recognized tribes. An estimated 6.7 million people identified as AI/AN alone
or AI/AN in combination with one or more other races,
according to the U.S. Census Bureau.
As we commemorate the contributions and heritage of AI/ANs, we also recommit
to supporting tribal self-determination, security and prosperity for all AI/ANs.
VA also salutes and honors all AI/AN employees who help care for our Nation’s Veterans and their family
members through their commitment and dedicated service. As of August 31, 2017, VA
employees who identified as AI/AN represented 1.49 percent
of VA’s total permanent workforce.
For further information about VA's American Indian and
Alaska Native Employment Program, contact the
program manager.
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