Nez Perce warrior on horse c1910November is Native American Heritage Month in the US.  I have always thought American Indian culture was fascinating and beautifully in-sync with the earth - frankly, in a way I know I will never be able to experience. I also believe American Indians are one of the most discarded socities I'm aware of.  When I was an undergrad at the University of Illinois, the Chief Illiniwek controversy was raging, and everyone seemed eager to voice their opinion whether the mascot was offensive or not (he was - in case you're wondering - retired).  However, I heard no conversation whatsoever about the socio-economic conditions most Native Americans live under, and I would argue how American Indians have sometimes been treated in this country is really the offensive action worth debating.  I'm not sure why the mascot debate never opened up more dialog about American Indians in the US today, other than it seems like one of those almost "taboo" topics - no one knows anything about it, and everyone is too afraid to say something un-PC to discuss it.  An episode of the show "30 Days" hammered all of this home for me with an episode called "Life on an Indian Reservation" (I strongly encourage you to read the synopsis - it really is incredible).  It was beautiful and devastating, fascinating and frustrating.  For those who would like to take a peek into Native American culture, there are many events taking place this month in NYC.  Another option is the National Museum of the American Indian - a free museum at Bowling Green, just footsteps from the 4/5.

What are some other Gals doing to observe Native American Heritage Month?