Honoring Native American Heritage Month in the DMV

November is Native American Heritage Month — a time to honor the history, culture, and resilience of Indigenous peoples whose stories began long before the founding of this nation. Here in the DC, Maryland, and Virginia area, those stories remain deeply rooted in the land we live on — once home to the Piscataway, Nacotchtank (Anacostan), and Pamunkey peoples, among many others who continue to preserve and celebrate their heritage today.

Local Heroes Making an Impact
From Dr. Gabrielle Tayac, a Piscataway historian and activist working to preserve Native history and visibility in Maryland, to Roxanne Swentzell, an Indigenous artist whose works have inspired community art spaces throughout the region — these voices remind us that Native heritage is living, evolving, and deeply rooted in this place we call home.

Dr Gabrielle Tayac Associate Professor of Public History, George Mason University, Former Curator at the Smithsonian National Museum of American Indian. Source: UCLA

Organizations such as the Baltimore American Indian Center, Native American Lifelines, and The Cedarville Band of Piscataway Indians continue to provide health, education, and cultural support to Native residents throughout the DMV. Their work keeps traditions alive and ensures the next generation grows up proud of their identity and history.

How You Can Support

You can help uplift these efforts by:

• Visiting the National Museum of the American Indian on the National Mall — a space dedicated to celebrating Indigenous life, art, and sovereignty.

• Attending community events hosted by Native-led groups in the DMV.

• Supporting Indigenous artists, businesses, and storytellers who share their heritage through creativity and craftsmanship.

• Learning about the original stewards of the land you live on and sharing that history with others.

Featured Programming

At WHUT, we believe in using public media to amplify those stories. This month, we’re highlighting programs and conversations that celebrate Indigenous resilience and creativity:

• “Native Ball: Legacy of a Trailblazer”  

• “Electric Indian”

•  “Independent Lens: One with the Whale”

• “Medicine Game”

• “Racing the Rez”

Please take a moment to explore the National Museum of the American Indian, attend a local cultural event, or tune in to one of our featured broadcasts. Each action — big or small — helps deepen understanding and respect for the First Peoples of this land.

Join WHUT all month long as we honor Native American Heritage Month and continue telling stories that connect us all.