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Written by: Saraya Hamidi, Indigenous Partnerships Manager

As a Native person, I have never deliberately celebrated Native American Heritage Month. Perhaps that is because, in my life, in a sense, every month is a Native American Heritage Month. However, what I most appreciate about the holiday is the opportunity it presents to discuss meaningful work happening in Indian Country.

Today, I would like to spotlight three Native-led organizations that are making a significant impact in their communities through the lenses of governance, land, and culture. These organizations, driven by the voices and visions of Indigenous leaders, play a pivotal role in preserving, promoting, and advocating for the rights and culture of Indigenous people. Learn more about their work and get involved below.

Governance: Native Governance Center

Native Governance Center is a Native-led nonprofit supporting Native Nations to strengthen their governance systems and capacity to exercise sovereignty. Their free resources teach organizations and individuals how to show up for Native Nations in the right way, with respect for Tribal sovereignty and Native people. As a member of their community committee, I encourage all organizations and individuals to check out their resource bank and support their annual giving campaign.

Land: Sacred Lands, Native Hands

Sacred Lands, Native Hands is a nonprofit organization whose mission is to restore ancestral homelands to the hands of Indigenous peoples for traditional stewardship and protection. Their co-founder Caressa Nguyen (Ione Band of Miwok Indians) has led campaigns to reclaim Miwok lands, advocate for Tribal co-management, and support land back. The organization is an active leader in what is now called Sacramento, the homelands of the Miwok and Nisenan People, where Blue Forest is rooted. Follow Sacred Lands, Native Hands on social media to stay informed and participate in their upcoming campaigns.

Culture: California Heritage Indigenous Research Project

California Heritage Indigenous Research Project (CHIRP) is a nonprofit whose mission is to preserve the history and culture of the Nevada City Rancheria Nisenan Tribe. The Tribe, which is part of the North Yuba Forest Partnership with Blue Forest, is one of the 44 California Tribes whose federal status was terminated in 1958, making CHIRP’s work all the more significant. To support CHIRP and the restoration of the Nevada City Rancheria Nisenan Tribe, get involved in their Ancestral Homelands Reciprocity Program.