November Holiday Spotlight

November is Native American Heritage Month.  What started at the turn of the century as an effort to gain a day of recognition for the significant contributions the first Americans made to the establishment and growth of the U.S., has resulted in a whole month being designated for that purpose.

"We are too often relegated to the past but what we look like now is alive, vibrant, contributing member of general society and our tribal communities.”- Boo Balkan Foster (Seattle Public School teacher)

November 27 is Native American Heritage Day. A day of observing and honoring Native Americans through appropriate ceremonies and activities. Native American Heritage Day is held annually the Friday after Thanksgiving. For those participating in Black Friday, consider supporting Native-owned businesses. 

November 11 is Veterans Day. Veterans Day commemorates the ending of World War I ("The Great War") in 1918. School is closed on this day to honor and remember those who have fought for our country over centuries. We want to acknowledge all our veterans currently teaching at SAAS and many others in our extended community. Thank you for your service.  

"As we express our gratitude, we must never forget that the highest appreciation is not to utter words, but to live by them." -- John F. Kennedy

Also in November:

• November 1: All Saints’ Day
• November 1- 2: Dia de los Muertos
• November 11: Veterans Day
• November 14: Diwali
• November 20: Transgender Day of Remembrance
• November 26: Thanksgiving
• November 27: Native American Heritage Day
• November 29 - December 24: Advent

Written by Taylor Kanemori, Director of Equity & Inclusion