As we reflect on National Indigenous Peoples Day and throughout the year, it is important to think about how we, as individuals and communities, can support Native American tribes and honor the heritage that has shaped the land we now call home. Indigenous peoples have long had a deep connection to the land, their cultures, and traditions, and continue to contribute to society today. Yet, much of this history has been overlooked or diminished in mainstream narratives.

Central Texas has a rich and diverse history, with many Indigenous tribes once calling this region home. The following tribes are among the most prominent historically associated with Central Texas:

• Tonkawa – Known for their hunting and gathering lifestyle along the Colorado River and its tributaries.

• Comanche – A nomadic tribe, renowned for their horsemanship, who moved across the American Southwest, including Central Texas.

• Lipan Apache – Known for their agility and survival skills, this tribe lived in Central Texas before being displaced by settlers.

• Wichita – Primarily based in East Texas, but their territory extended into parts of Central Texas, where they were agricultural and hunter-gatherers.

• Caddo – An advanced society known for their agricultural practices and social systems, their territory included parts of East and Central Texas.

• Kiowa – Associated with the Great Plains, but also lived in Central Texas before moving westward, sharing cultural similarities with the Comanche.

• Muskogee Creek – A group who spent time in Central Texas during early European contact.

• Jumanos – A lesser-known group who lived in parts of Central and West Texas, engaging in trade and agriculture.

• Karankawa – A Gulf Coast tribe whose reach extended into parts of Central Texas, known for their close relationship with the waterways.

These tribes shaped the culture and history of Central Texas, and their stories, traditions, and contributions should be recognized and honored. Supporting Native communities isn’t just about recognition on one day of the year, it's about meaningful action that extends throughout our lives.

Educate Yourself and Others

The first step toward support is education. Learning about Native history, culture, and the challenges that Indigenous peoples face is vital. Too often, narratives around Native peoples are shaped by non-Native voices, leaving out critical perspectives and insights from Indigenous communities themselves.

Learn About Native History and Culture: Take time to explore the rich history and diverse cultures of Native American tribes. Read books by Native authors, attend lectures, and visit local museums or cultural centers. Indigenous peoples have their own stories, beliefs, and practices that are essential to understanding the history of our land.

Share Knowledge: Once you’ve educated yourself, pass on that knowledge to others. Whether you have a blog, a social media platform, or just engage in conversations with friends and family, use your voice to share accurate and respectful information about Native peoples. Amplifying Native voices, rather than speaking for them, is a crucial part of this process.

Support Native Owned Businesses

One of the most impactful ways to support Native communities is to invest in Native-owned businesses. These businesses span a wide range of industries, from arts and crafts to technology, tourism, and food production. By buying directly from Native entrepreneurs, we help provide economic opportunities that empower communities and sustain traditions.

Purchase from Native Artists and Craftspeople: Many Native artists produce beautiful and meaningful work, from handmade jewelry and clothing to pottery, paintings, and textiles. Purchasing from these artists supports their livelihood and helps preserve their cultural traditions.

Support Native Businesses: Beyond the arts, many Native entrepreneurs operate successful businesses in diverse fields. Look for Native-owned businesses in your area or online, and support them by shopping with them or utilizing their services.

Donate to Native Organizations and Causes

Financial contributions to Native organizations are an essential way to support Indigenous communities. These organizations work on issues such as land rights, education, health care, and environmental justice. Donations help provide resources for grassroots movements and advocacy efforts that promote Native sovereignty and protect the rights of Indigenous peoples.

Financial Support: Donate to organizations that work to uplift Native communities. The Native American Rights Fund (NARF), the American Indian College Fund, and the Native American Heritage Association are just a few examples of nonprofits that support Indigenous peoples. You can also find specific campaigns that fund legal defense, environmental protection, and health initiatives.

Specific Campaigns: Look for campaigns that focus on specific issues, such as land preservation, water rights, and the revitalization of Native languages. These causes directly impact the well-being of Native communities and offer concrete ways to help.

Advocate for Native Rights and Sovereignty

Advocating for Native rights is a powerful way to show support. It is important to recognize that Indigenous peoples are not just a part of history but are vibrant, active communities today. Supporting policies that promote tribal sovereignty, protect Native lands, and ensure equal access to resources is key.

Support Policy Change: Advocate for laws and policies that recognize and protect the rights of Native peoples. This includes supporting efforts to preserve tribal sovereignty, promote economic development, and protect Native lands from exploitation. Writing letters to elected officials, participating in relevant movements, and voting for policies that recognize Native rights can make a significant impact.

Respect Native Land Acknowledgments: A land acknowledgment is a way to honor the people who have lived on the land long before us. While land acknowledgments are a positive step, they must be paired with action that respects Native land rights and the sovereignty of Indigenous communities. Advocate for the return of sacred lands and support initiatives to protect those lands from further harm.

Engage with Local Native Communities

Where possible, engage directly with the Native communities in your area. If you live in a region with a Native presence, seek out cultural events, festivals, and local organizations. Building relationships with Indigenous peoples can help foster mutual respect and understanding.

Create Partnerships: For those in business or organizational roles, consider ways to collaborate with Native communities. Whether it’s through sponsorships, partnerships, or consulting, collaborating on projects that respect and uplift Native cultures is a great way to ensure their voices are heard in every field.

Respect Native Cultural Practices and Traditions

Respecting Native cultures goes beyond supporting economic endeavors, it involves honoring traditions and practices that have been passed down through generations.

Be Mindful of Cultural Appropriation: Avoid using sacred symbols, practices, or artifacts from Native cultures without understanding their significance or seeking permission. Cultural appropriation disrespects the meaning behind these practices and often exploits them for profit. Instead, learn about their true significance and honor them with respect.

Celebrate Native Culture: Whether it’s through art, food, or music, celebrating Native culture can help to highlight the beauty and richness of Indigenous traditions. Show respect by engaging with Native culture in a thoughtful and informed way.

Support Native American Artists

Celebrating and supporting Native American women artists and writers is essential for honoring their contributions and preserving their cultures. Here is a curated list of notable Native American female artists and writers, along with their Instagram handles when available:

Visual Artists:

1. Jaune Quick-to-See Smith (Salish)

   • A prominent visual artist known for her paintings, printmaking, and installations that explore themes of Native identity and social justice.

   • Instagram: @jaune_quick_to_see_smith

2. Marlene Ollivier (Muscogee Creek)

   • Her work features intricate patterns and vibrant colors, often inspired by her Muscogee Creek heritage.

   • Instagram: @marlenelolivier

3. Fawn Douglas (Southern Paiute)

   • A Las Vegas-based artist addressing environmental issues and Native identity through various media.

   • Instagram: @fawndouglasart

4. Tanya Tagaq (Inuk)

   • Renowned for her throat singing, blending traditional Inuit music with modern influences.

   • Instagram: @tanyatagaq

Writers:

1. Joy Harjo (Muscogee)

   • The first Native American to serve as U.S. poet laureate, known for her poetry, memoirs, and essays.

   • Instagram: @joyharjo

2. Louise Erdrich (Ojibwe)

   • An acclaimed novelist and poet whose works explore Native American life and history.

   • Instagram: @louisederdrich

3. Robin Wall Kimmerer (Citizen Potawatomi Nation)

   • A botanist and author of "Braiding Sweetgrass," blending indigenous wisdom with scientific knowledge.

   • Instagram: @robinwallkimmerer

4. Erika T. Wurth (Apache/Chickasaw/Cherokee)

   • An author and poet whose works explore themes of identity and culture.

   • Instagram: @erikatwurth

5. Jaylyn Gough (Navajo)

   • A photographer, writer, and speaker, founder of Native Women’s Wilderness, sharing stories and supporting Native women on the land.

   • Instagram: @jaylyn.gough

6. Alana Yazzie (Navajo)

   • A lifestyle and food blogger known as @TheFancyNavajo, sharing insights into Navajo culture and cuisine.

   • Instagram: @thefancynavajo

7. Autumn Peltier (Anishinabek Nation)

   • A young water activist and chief water commissioner advocating for clean drinking water for Indigenous people in Canada.

   • Instagram: @autumn.peltier

8. Kahara Hodges (Diné)

   • A model and activist featured in Nike’s N7 campaign, highlighting the importance of self-representation for Indigenous people.

   • Instagram: @kahara.hodges

9. Natalie Franklin (Navajo Nation)

   • An avid hiker and explorer, sharing her adventures and experiences as a Native woman.

   • Instagram: @natalie_franklin

These individuals offer diverse perspectives and talents, enriching the cultural landscape with their art and words.

By taking these steps, educating ourselves, supporting Native businesses, advocating for Native rights, and celebrating Native culture—

we can make a lasting difference in honoring Indigenous peoples and their enduring legacies.