For the second year, Mayor Elizabeth Tisdahl declared through proclamation that November will be Native American Heritage Month in the city of Evanston. Mayor Tisdahl urges Evanstonians to observe this month with appropriate programs, ceremonies and activities. Evanston’s own Mitchell Museum of the American Indian has events scheduled every week throughout the month of November for all age groups to learn more about American Indian life through lectures, crafts and exhibits.
With more than 40,000 Native Americans living in the Chicago area, including Evanston, the proclamation acknowledges the American Indian people’s significant contributions to the history and culture of the area. The Mitchell Museum has been educating local and international visitors for over 37 years about the art, history and culture of American Indian and Indigenous peoples.
Native American Awareness Week began in 1976. Recognition was expanded by Congress and approved by President George Bush in August of 1990 when he designated the Month of November as National American Indian Heritage Month.
The national designation was later changed to Native American Heritage Month. Today, every November is celebrated nationally as Native American Heritage Month.
“We are thrilled that the City of Evanston has recognized the importance of the American Indian peoples, their history, and culture. While the museum offers excellent programming throughout the year, we hope that people will take advantage of the great programs we have to offer to celebrate Native American Heritage Month.” said Executive Director Kathleen McDonald.
For more information about The Mitchell Museum of The American Indian, visit www.mitchellmuseum.org. or call 847-475-1030. The museum is open Tuesday-Wednesday 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., Thursday, 10 a.m. to 8 p.m., Friday- Saturday 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sunday noon to 4 p.m. Admission is $5 for adults, $3 for seniors, students and children and Free for Mitchell Museum members and Tribal members.