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1 <br /> ORANGE COUNTY <br /> BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS <br /> ACTION AGENDA ITEM ABSTRACT <br /> Meeting Date: November 18, 2025 <br /> Action Agenda <br /> Item No. 4-a <br /> SUBJECT: Native American Heritage Month Proclamation <br /> DEPARTMENT: Office of Civil Rights and Civic <br /> Life <br /> ATTACHMENT(S): INFORMATION CONTACT: <br /> Proclamation Paul Slack, Chief Civil Rights Officer, <br /> (919) 245-2317 <br /> PURPOSE: To approve a proclamation recognizing November 2025 as Native American <br /> Heritage Month. <br /> BACKGROUND: Native American Heritage Month, observed each November, honors the <br /> history, culture, and contributions of Native American and Indigenous peoples, acknowledging <br /> their significant influence on the formation and development of the United States. This observance <br /> recognizes the perseverance and resilience of Native peoples who have maintained their identity <br /> and traditions despite centuries of hardship, including forced removal, assimilation, and systemic <br /> injustices. <br /> This month-long recognition highlights the diversity of Native nations, languages, customs, and <br /> histories across the United States, which includes the eight state-recognized tribes of North <br /> Carolina. The Occaneechi Band of the Saponi Nation, whose ancestral homeland includes what <br /> is now Orange County, continue to be an integral part of the County's cultural and historical fabric. <br /> Native Americans have contributed greatly to the advancement of the United States, from <br /> environmental stewardship and land care to their roles in government, education, the arts, and <br /> military service — including the famed Native American Code Talkers who served with distinction <br /> in World Wars I and 11. <br /> Native American Heritage Month serves as an opportunity for all communities to learn about and <br /> celebrate Indigenous cultures, traditions, and enduring contributions. It calls upon residents to <br /> engage in programs, ceremonies, and educational activities that honor Native American heritage, <br /> while fostering a shared commitment to freedom, peace, and justice for all. <br /> FINANCIAL IMPACT: There is no financial impact associated with approval of the proclamation. <br /> ALIGNMENT WITH STRATEGIC PLAN: This item supports: <br /> • GOAL 5: PUBLIC EDUCATION/ LEARNING COMMUNITY <br />