On November 4 at the newly opened National Museum of the American Indian, President George W. Bush declared that November is National American Indian Heritage Month. Bush stated, "I encourage all Americans to commemorate this month with appropriate programs and activities and to learn more about the rich heritage of American Indians and Alaska Natives." Bush also signed an executive memorandum to all Federal agencies reaffirming Indian systems of self-determination and sovereignty. He said in his address, "As they have in the past, tribal governments will maintain jurisdiction over their lands, systems of self-governance, and government-to-government relationships with the United States."
In response to Bush's declaration on Thursday, the National Museum of the Native American and other Smithsonian museums will be providing numerous Native American performances throughout the month.
