Native American Heritage Month
Native American Heritage Month is observed each November in Salt Lake City and across Utah to honor the first peoples of this place and their ongoing contributions to our state. During this month we recognize the eight federally recognized Tribal Nations with homelands in Utah and the many Native peoples who now call Salt Lake City home. We also acknowledge the deep histories, languages, and cultural traditions that continue to shape our communities today. Throughout November, educational programs, cultural events, and community gatherings lift up Indigenous voices, celebrate Native excellence, and tell the stories of resilience that have always been part of Utah.
November Kick-Off Celebration
Featured Events
Foster Care Indigenous Fashion Show
In partnership with fashion designer/artist Jessica Wiarda and the Urban Indian Center of Salt Lake, this event is for the public and all foster families caring for Native children in foster care. This fashion show will be an exciting and memorable experience for everyone.
Beyond the Book: Exploring the Legacy of Wakara and Tribal Sovereignty in Utah
Join The King’s English Bookshop and the Center for Native Excellence & Tribal Engagement for a discussion of the recently published book, Wakara’s America. The event will be guided by author Max Mueller and Ute knowledge keeper, Forrest Cuch. Together, they'll provide insight into the lasting impact of Wakara on Tribal Nations and Utah.
Film Screening: Remaining Native/Fire Tender
Join American Indian Services and Urban Indian Center of Salt Lake for two compelling films that explore the richness of Native culture, identity, and tradition while shining a light on the challenges and triumphs of preserving these legacies today. Panel following screenings.
Wuda Ogwa Planting Days
Join the Northwestern Band of the Shoshone Nation for the 3rd annual Community Planting Days at the Wuda Ogwa Restoration Site. The tribe is seeking volunteers to help plant ~50,000 native trees and seedlings to restore the land back to its historic condition.
Navajo Rug Show
The 2025 Adopt-A-Native-Elder Navajo Rug Show theme is "We Come From The Stars." The event will feature Navajo rugs, jewelry, crafts, and cultural activities including a veteran's ceremony and pow wow dancers. The Friday evening starts with a VIP reception and early shopping access, while Saturday and Sunday offer free entry.
Medicine Wheel Workshop
Join the Office of Academic Culture and Community, the Center for Native Excellence and Tribal Engagement, the Association of Native American Medical Students, and the Veterans Support Center to learn about the MedicineWheel, a teaching of balance, healing, and connection that centers the physical, emotional, spiritual, and mental aspects of health.
Honoring Native American Resilience
David Eccles School of Business invites you for lunch and a panel discussion exploring the lasting impact of the boarding school era on Native communities. Panelists will share stories of resilience and strength while highlighting ongoing efforts to preserve Native culture, identity, and storytelling traditions today. All are welcome.
Shoshone Ethnobotany
Rios Pacheco is Northwest Shoshone/Kewa Pueblo and will be sharing the NWB Shoshone language and his extensive knowledge, ranging from traditional uses for native plants in medicine and food to the construction of shelters. Learn the stories of the NWB Shoshone migration routes, from gathering plants in wetlands and in the mountains.
Additional Resources
The Library of Congress, National Archives and Records Administration, National Endowment for the Humanities, National Gallery of Art, National Park Service, Smithsonian Institution and United States Holocaust Memorial Museum join in paying tribute to the rich ancestry and traditions of Native Americans.
PBS Utah has a long history of producing documentaries and outreach projects that give voice to Utah’s Native American population. Education Resources enhance these films and bring them to life in the classroom. Explore PBS Utah's Native Heritage Education Collection.
The National Endowment for the Humanities is proud to have funded numerous projects that preserve and document Native American and Alaska Native language and history; expand humanities resources for Native communities; and deepen public awareness of the cultures and contributions of Indigenous peoples.