Moccia Signs Proclamation: November Is Native American Indian Heritage Month in Norwalk

The theme of the current administration of the National Society of the Daughters of the American Revolution is “Honoring Our Heritage—Focusing on the Future—Celebrating America!”  In honoring our heritage, local chapters of the DAR are working to bring attention to, celebrate and pay tribute to the rich ancestry and traditions of Native Americans.

Mayor Richard Moccia signed a proclamation, proclaiming the month of November as National American Indian Heritage month in Norwalk, and in so doing, urged all our citizens to observe this month with appropriate programs, ceremonies and activities. A copy of the proclamation was presented to the Norwalk-Village Green Chapter of the DAR. 

The proclamation states, “The history and culture of our great nation have been significantly influenced by American Indians and indigenous peoples; the contributions of American Indians have enhanced the freedom, prosperity, and greatness of America today, and their customs and traditions are respected and celebrated as part of a rich legacy throughout the United States.”

In 1915 the annual Congress of the American Indian Association proclaimed the second Saturday in May as American Indian Day.  Native American Awareness Week began in 1976 and recognition was expanded by Congress and approved by President George Bush in August 1990, designating the month of November as National American Indian Heritage Month.  Similar proclamations have been issued each year since 1994 under various names including Native American Heritage Month and National American Indian and Alaska Native Heritage Month. 

The Norwalk-Village Green Chapter encourages all members of the Norwalk community to take time during National American Indian Heritage Month to learn more about the heritage of the Native American Indians and particularly their vital role in the history of the city of Norwalk.