UNITED WE ROW: Celebrating Native American Heritage Month

Native American Heritage Month 2023

Celebrating Tribal Sovereignty and Identity

Native American Heritage Month is observed to honor and celebrate the culture, traditions, and

achievements of Native and Indigenous people in the United States and their descendants. Native

American spirituality, both traditionally and today, emphasizes gratitude for creation, care for the

environment, and recognition of the human need for communion with nature and others.

USRowing encourages all members of the rowing community to learn more through the resource

guide below and to celebrate within their boathouses during the month of November and beyond. By

respecting and valuing individuals in their rowing organizations, they will become more inclusive and

welcoming.

WAYS TO CELEBRATE

At USRowing, we encourage our rowing leaders across the country to:

1. Learn about the indigenous waters you row on through the Know Where You Row campaign,

an initiative by Tacoma Rowing to honor native waters.

Listen to the Steady State Podcast to learn more about Know Where You Row and how it

connects people, land, and water. This is a good one to share with your community and

discuss.

2. Discover the tribal land on which your boathouse or home is built via the Native Lands

interactive map. Consider recognizing this land at your next boat meeting, event, or

boathouse gathering to bring awareness.

3. Learn about Native Americans and their strong connection to the water. One of the (many)

reasons we love our sport is the deep connection to water and nature. Explore how the Native

Americans were the first in America to appreciate its vast opportunities for recreation, food,

and more. Learn more.

ADDITIONAL RESORUCES TO EXPLORE

• Learn more about Native American tribes and cultures: National Museum of the American

Indian

• 10 Ways to Celebrate Native American Heritage Month

• Celebrating Native American Heritage Month: BBC My World

• Mossback’s Northwest: When the 'boys in the boat' raced Swinomish paddlers

• National Native American Heritage Month

• Sacred Waters: A UW Grad’s Indigenous Walking Tour Enlightens Rowers

• Explore the intersectionality of Indigenous women through art: Ancestors Know Who We Are