North Carolina is home to a vibrant Native American community, with over 130,000 Native Americans and eight state- and federally-recognized tribes.
If you want to learn more about Native American heritage in North Carolina, here are eight excellent resources for students, educators, and anyone interested in Indigenous history and culture.
1. North Carolina American Indian Heritage Commission (AIHC)
The AIHC leads efforts to preserve, interpret, and promote Native American history, arts, customs, and culture across the state. They provide educational materials, coordinate cultural events, and oversee state-managed historic sites related to Native American history.
The AIHC also promotes public awareness through events like the annual American Indian Heritage Celebration at the North Carolina Museum of History.
2. American Indian Heritage Center at UNC Pembroke
Located at the University of North Carolina at Pembroke, the American Indian Heritage Center (AIHC) centralizes cultural, social, and academic programming for Native students.
It also offers educational events for non-Native students and the public, such as speaker series and workshops about powwow etiquette and traditions.
3. Indian Museum of the Carolinas
This museum in Laurinburg showcases artifacts and exhibits from North Carolina’s Native American communities, from prehistoric times to the present.
The museum’s mission is to educate the public and support archaeological research, with displays and a seasonal Native American garden that is popular with students.
4. Triangle Native American Society
This nonprofit provides educational, social, and cultural programs for Native youth and the broader community. They host events, advocate for Native issues, and work to eliminate stereotypes by educating the public about Native American history and culture in North Carolina.
5. North Carolina Department of Public Instruction (DPI) – Culturally Responsive Resources
The DPI offers resources for teachers to help them teach about American Indians and support Native students. Their instructional materials focus on valuing diversity, understanding cultural dynamics, and institutionalizing cultural knowledge in schools.
6. Exploring Indigenous Cultures: Ancient North Carolinians (UNC World View Fellows Program)
This program offers lesson plans and educational materials for K-12 and community college students. Lessons cover the history, archaeology, and contemporary cultures of North Carolina’s eight state-recognized tribes, helping students connect the past to the present.
7. American Indian Studies Department at UNC Pembroke
UNC Pembroke’s American Indian Studies program offers degree options and courses that explore the diversity of American Indian histories and cultures.
The program encourages research and scholarship on Indigenous issues and prepares students for careers related to Native American heritage.
8. State Advisory Council on Indian Education (SACIE)
SACIE promotes academic excellence among American Indian students by providing culturally responsive resources, professional development, and annual reports on Native education issues in North Carolina. They help ensure that Native perspectives are included in school curricula.
These resources offer a variety of ways to learn about and celebrate the rich Native American heritage of North Carolina, whether through museums, educational programs, or community organizations. Participating in events like powwows is also a great way to experience Native traditions and connect with local Indigenous communities.
Sources:
- https://www.trilliumhealthresources.org/article/native-american-heritage
- https://www.uncp.edu/academics/american-indian-heritage-center
- https://aihc.nc.gov/american-indian-resources
- https://www.ncpedia.org/sites/default/files/americanindianheritage/items/aihm053.html