On November 14, 1990, President George H.W. Bush proclaimed the month of November 1990 as National American Indian Heritage Month. In his proclamation he said, “I encourage all Americans and their elected representatives at the Federal, State and local levels to observe this month with appropriate programs, ceremonies and activities”.
Princess Pale Moon, President of the American Indian Heritage Foundation, had dreamed for years that a special commemorative month would be dedicated especially to Native people. She had noted the great success of Black History Month and she believed that Native people also deserved to have a front row seat in the media.
In the spring of 1990, Pale Moon met with Congressman Eni Faleomavaega. He agreed that a tribute was long overdue and he introduced a bill to the U.S. House of Representatives. Senator Daniel Inouye was asked to introduce the bill to the Senate. They worked together and the bill was signed into law on November 14, 1990.
President Bush went on to say in his proclamation, “During the National American Indian Heritage Month, as we celebrate the fascinating history and time-honored traditions of Native Americans, we also look to the future. Our Constitution affirms a special relationship between the Federal Government and Indian tribes and – despite a number of conflicts, inequities, and changes over the years – our unique government to government relationship has endured. In recent years, we have strengthened and renewed this relationship. Today we reaffirm our support for increased Indian control over tribal government affairs, and we look forward to still greater economic independence and self sufficiency for Native Americans”.
