Have you ever wondered how your business could make a meaningful impact in recognizing and celebrating the rich cultural heritage of Native American communities and their present day influence in today’s economy? As we celebrate National Native American Heritage Month, it’s the perfect time for companies to reflect on ways they can show support and appreciation for the first inhabitants of this land.
Beyond social media posts or once-a-year acknowledgments, there are numerous impactful steps businesses and organizations can take to honor Native American history, traditions and the ongoing contributions of Indigenous peoples. By embracing these practices, you not only demonstrate your commitment to uphold the standard of equity and representation, you also gain insights that can impact business outcomes.
Acknowledge the Land
One powerful way to recognize Native American heritage is through land acknowledgments. This meaningful gesture involves publicly recognizing and honoring the Indigenous peoples who were the original stewards of the land where your business operates.
A land acknowledgment can be incorporated into the beginning of meetings, events or even displayed prominently on your company’s website. The acknowledgment should name the specific tribe(s) whose ancestral lands you occupy and express gratitude for their continued presence and contributions.
This act serves as an important reminder of the often-overlooked history of colonization and the ongoing struggles faced by Native American communities. It also demonstrates your organization’s respect for Indigenous sovereignty and a willingness to learn about the unique cultures and traditions of the people whose land you have the privilege of using.
Photo: Ty “Dancing Wolf” Ellis, Founder of Lenapehoking Reestablishment Project
Architect, project manager and CADD tech, Ty “Dancing Wolf” Ellis, also owns the Lenapehoking Reestablishment Project (LRP). He shares his perspective on honoring his culture and how it shows up in business.“LRP is completely built on our heritage,” Ty explains. It was started by citizens of the Nanticoke Lenni-Lenape Tribal Nation of New Jersey.
“A lot of what we emphasize is about indigenous youth and balancing between contemporary and modern life while holding onto traditions and having our feet balanced in both worlds,” Ty said. “With that said, why does it have to be two worlds? At what one point does it become one for us?” People still see us in the past tense. It’s not just about the past tense, it’s about who we are today, expressing through indigenous arts like fashion, and not just our regalia we wear when dancing in spiritual spaces. It’s amazing not just for our community but the indigenous community as a whole.
Through his career in architecture, Ty has seen how being conscious of the land can be meaningful through following local environmental ordinances and respecting site minimums. He also incorporates indigenous roots into his approach. During his architectural sketching, he focuses “on the integration of nature, like the lack of right angles and where the east gate sits in consideration of where the sun rises.” In many Indigenous cultures, the “east gate” represents the direction of the rising sun and symbolizes new beginnings, clarity and life itself.
He also appreciates how the company he works for is open to the cultural aspects that would be unacceptable in the past, such as facial markings and tattoos. His employer understands that many of his cultural or ceremonial times aren’t a part of the federal holiday calendar, and they accommodate those days.
A thoughtful example of a land acknowledgment comes from the ASU Library. Their statement offers a meaningful reference point for those looking to honor Indigenous communities with care and intention.
Amplify Native American Voices
Another impactful way to support Native American Heritage Month is by actively seeking out and amplifying the voices and perspectives of Indigenous leaders, entrepreneurs and subject matter experts.
This could involve:
- Hosting a speaker series or panel discussion featuring Native American professionals
- Collaborating with Native-owned businesses or organizations on joint initiatives
- Featuring Native American authors, artists or creatives in your marketing and content
- Providing a platform for Native American employees to share their stories and experiences
By elevating these voices, you not only shine a light on the incredible contributions of Native American communities but also challenge the often-dominant narratives that have historically marginalized Indigenous peoples. This approach can foster greater understanding, empathy and appreciation for the diverse cultures that make up the fabric of our society.
The Native Art Market offers a powerful example of how to gather community, elevate Indigenous voices and celebrate the beauty and value of Native-made goods and services—all while contributing meaningfully to our shared economy. Founded with the intention of creating a safe, affordable space for Native Americans to sell directly to the public, the market began as an outdoor showcase for Native art and culture. Since its opening, it has grown into a vital platform for economic empowerment, generating millions in revenue for Native artists and their families and reinforcing the deep connection between cultural expression and sustainable livelihood.
Embrace Holistic Approaches
One of the core principles of many Native American belief systems is a deep reverence for the interconnectedness of all living things. This holistic worldview can offer valuable insights for businesses looking to adopt more sustainable and community-centric practices.
For example, consider how your organization can incorporate elements of the “seventh generation” philosophy, which encourages decision-making that considers the impact on the next seven generations. This long-term, circular mindset stands in contrast to the often short-term, linear thinking that has dominated the business world.
Similarly, you might explore ways to integrate traditional Native American approaches to leadership, conflict resolution and problem-solving into your company’s operations. These practices often emphasize consensus-building, collective responsibility and a deep respect for the natural environment—all of which can contribute to a more balanced, holistic and ultimately more successful business model.
Kiyani Botanics is an example of a business that builds with intention, both in what it creates and how it creates. Rooted in Native American identity and wisdom, Kiyani’s offerings, from soaps to healing salves, don’t just look good. They reflect a philosophy of respect for place, ingredients and tradition. Their formulas avoid unnecessary water (to reduce waste and emissions), rely on plant-based, biodegradable botanicals, use refillable or recycled packaging, and source wild-harvested herbs like sagebrush, juniper and broomweed.
For other business owners wanting to follow a similar path, there are several lessons:
- Ingredient transparency: Be clear about what goes into your products and why those ingredients matter.
- Sustainability from source to packaging: Think not just of what’s inside, but how it gets made and presented.
- Creative design plus culture: Let heritage, traditional knowledge or local expertise guide product design—in Kiyani’s case, Indigenous plant knowledge.
- Waste reduction: Concentrated formulas and refill systems are smart ways to lower environmental impact while still delivering value.
By adopting even a few of these practices, a brand can create products that feel mindful, authentic and beneficial to its community, just like Kiyani does.
Support Native-Owned Businesses
One of the most tangible ways to support Native American Heritage Month is by actively seeking out and engaging with Native-owned businesses in your local community or industry.
This could involve:
- Prioritizing procurement from Native-owned suppliers and vendors
- Partnering with Native entrepreneurs on joint projects or initiatives
- Providing mentorship, training or access to resources for Native-owned startups
- Highlighting and promoting the products, services and stories of Native-owned businesses through your marketing channels
By directing your business resources and partnerships towards Native-owned enterprises, you not only help to foster economic empowerment and self-determination within Indigenous communities but also gain valuable insights and perspectives that can strengthen your own operations.
Celebrate Culture and Grow Together
During the month of November and throughout the year, businesses have a unique opportunity to demonstrate a genuine, long-term commitment to honoring the rich cultural heritage and ongoing contributions of Native American peoples. By embracing practices like land acknowledgments, amplifying Indigenous voices, adopting holistic approaches and supporting Native-owned businesses, you can make a meaningful impact that extends far beyond a single month of recognition.
Ultimately, these efforts represent a deeper understanding and appreciation for the invaluable lessons that Native American cultures can offer and how we build communities that grow with integrity and intention. So, as you reflect on how your organization can make a difference this November and beyond, remember that the path to true progress often begins by listening, learning and walking alongside those who have been here all along.
Join a community that celebrates the diverse voices and needs of entrepreneurs and innovators from all backgrounds. The Edson E+I community offers space to learn and refine your vision alongside others who share your drive. Come connect with us at one of our upcoming events.
