"It's November, National American Indian Heritage Month. And it's time for Americans to step back and reflect on the lives of indigenous people.

Some might take a cue from President Bush. In a proclamation Thursday, he stated: "As the first people to call our country home, American Indians and Alaska Natives have a noble history in this land and have long shaped our nation. ... I encourage all Americans to commemorate this month with appropriate programs and activities."

National American Indian Heritage Month is a curious time.

It's usually the only time of year when government agencies, groups and educators make an attempt to acknowledge the historical - and maybe even contemporary - contributions and livelihoods of tribal citizens across the country."

Get the Story:
Reporter's notebook: November special for Indian heritage (The Billings Gazette 11/9)

Relevant Links:
Jodi Rave Lee - http://www.missoulian.com/jodirave

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