City Celebrates Native American Heritage Month

The City celebrates and honors Native American Heritage Month in November with educational displays, a craft activity, and a proclamation highlighting the culture, heritage, and achievements of our Native American neighbors.

An official proclamation designating November 2026 as "Native American Heritage Month" in the City of Gaithersburg will be presented during the November 2 Mayor and City Council meeting. The public is welcome to attend the meeting at 16 S. Summit Ave., watch it live on YouTube or watch it via Teams by registering here.

Native and indigenous people have significantly contributed to the rich fabric of history and culture we celebrate in our community. While Native Americans represent less than 1% of Gaithersburg's population, according to the 2020 Census, we recognize that our City stands on land originally inhabited by Indigenous peoples. This month serves not only to celebrate Native cultures but also to reflect on the complex histories and ongoing legacies of Native communities across the country. By acknowledging Native American Heritage Month, we reaffirm our commitment to inclusivity, respect, and historical awareness.

The U.S. government officially recognizes 574 tribes in the contiguous 48 states and Alaska. In Maryland, there are residents who represent these Nations as well as some of the more than 500 tribes from Latin America and the Caribbean. The Nation most closely associated with the boundaries of today's Montgomery County are the Piscataway Conoy Tribe. The state of Maryland officially recognized the Piscataway Conoy Tribe and the Piscataway Indian Nation in 2012.

The mission of the Multicultural Affairs Committee is to enrich our City through the promotion of understanding, respect, and appreciation of the many cultures of Gaithersburg. Interested in volunteering and helping plan Heritage Month celebrations? Please email [email protected].