Native American Heritage Day (yesterday)

I just found out that yesterday was Native American Heritage Day: National heritage day honors American Indians

For the first time, federal legislation has set aside the day after Thanksgiving — for this year only — to honor the contributions American Indians have made to the United States. Frank Suniga, a descendent of Mescalero Apache Indians who lives in Oregon, said he and others began pushing in 2001 for a national day that recognizes tribal heritage. Suniga, 79, proposed his idea to a cultural committee that is part of the Portland-based Affiliated Tribes of Northwest Indians. The organization took on the cause of a commemorative day, as did the National Congress of American Indians and other groups. Congress passed legislation this year designating the day as Native American Heritage Day, and President George W. Bush signed it last month

(link via International Herald Tribune) I think this is a fantastic idea! It's a shame though that it didn't get more publicity and that it was set up for this year only. Let's hope the Native American Heritage Day will become an annual event. It should be.