CHAMPAIGN – State Senator Scott Bennett (D-Champaign) sponsored a bill to recognize the month of November as Native American Heritage Month in Illinois.

“Native American Heritage Month is a tremendous opportunity for Illinoisans to learn more about the rich history of the first Americans,” Bennett said.

Native Americans, who were the first inhabitants of the U.S., have helped shape American culture through food, medicine, literature and the arts. A dedicated month would provide the opportunity to highlight these contributions, raise awareness about the unique challenges Native people have faced both historically and in the present, and focus on stories of the ways in which Native Americans have worked to conquer these challenges.

“This month gives us the chance to pay tribute to the contributions and influences of Native Americans,” Bennett said. “After all, it’s the least we can do for a people who laid the foundation for our country.”

Bennett encourages people across the state to recognize the influences of Native Americans on American history, achievement, culture and innovation during the month of November.