How to Celebrate Native American Heritage Month

Learn about Native Americans making a difference in the field of mental health 

In line with our commitment to equity, we’re celebrating a remarkable Native American Changemaker this month—Rebecca Johnson. Rebecca is a beacon of change in her community, dedicated to spreading awareness and supporting those in crisis. She offers a compassionate ear to anyone in need. Discover her inspiring story below.

How did you first hear about Crisis Text Line? 

Rebecca: I first heard about Crisis Text Line through my advocacy work with the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention. I was really excited to be trained for Crisis Text Line, to be a part of something so revolutionary and far-reaching. As I am a bit older, it actually took me two tries to get through my training but I was determined to be qualified in the early days of the launch. I share that so that others out there will know to keep at it if the training is challenging to them.

Why did you decide to volunteer at Crisis Text Line? 

Rebecca: I decided to volunteer on the Crisis Text Line because our family experienced a loss to suicide. I was once listening to a beautiful song based on the Prayer of St. Francis. The lyrics speak of being an “instrument of peace”, of bringing hope where there is despair. I felt inspired that it was my calling, so to speak, to help others who may be struggling with their hope, whether that be personally or because of the loss of someone close to them. I began looking for a way to honor that pull in my heart. I knew the sorrow that follows a loss to suicide especially. Volunteering places me where I can be a listener to those who may feel alone in their struggles.

Why is Native American Heritage Month so important to you? 

Rebecca: Native American Heritage Month is particularly important to me because my loved one lost to suicide was Native American. His life’s work was to educate others about Native American Culture. He was a storyteller, musician, and artist. His daughter, my niece, played Pocahantas in a Smithsonian special, which was a beautiful way to carry on her dad’s traditions and we were all so proud of her. I often wear a brooch that belonged to him which is of Native American origin. It reminds me of him and of the heritage that meant so much to him.

Besides volunteering with us, how do you impact the community around you as it pertains to the Native American community and mental health? 

Rebecca: Besides my volunteer work with Crisis Text Line, I have had the opportunity to share our family’s story of loss with local and national leaders. Recently, I had a meeting with my senator, Senator Tillis in Washington, D.C. It was an emotional experience to speak about why mental health is important to me. It is also important to me to lend my heart to those who are grieving and I have done that through facilitating local support groups for suicide loss survivors. That work led to me volunteering at our local hospice and I was most recently trained as an End-of-Life Doula. All of this work feels sacred to me and I feel it a privilege to provide safe spaces to those in need.

Who inspires you?

Rebecca: I am most inspired by those who show extraordinary courage as they persevere through difficult times and then share their experiences to help others. I am in awe of them and aspire to that same resiliency.

Chat, share, vent, connect with Rebecca and other volunteer Crisis Counselors by texting “NATIVE” to 741741 or start a web chat here.  

Read books about Native Americans

Here’s a selection of highly acclaimed fiction and non-fiction books that focus on the Native American community. Each book dives into Native American stories, creating a vivid mosaic filled with culture, history, and personal tales. Together, they offer a compassionate glimpse into the intricate and beautiful world of Native American experiences.

Fiction Books about Native Americans

• “The Lone Ranger and Tonto Fistfight in Heaven” by Sherman Alexie is a captivating collection of interconnected stories that explore the complex tapestry of Native American life, identity, and resilience with compassion and raw honesty. 
• “Reservation Blues” by Sherman Alexie is a poignant exploration of the resilient spirit and struggles of Native Americans, following an unlikely rock band’s quest for identity and redemption on the Spokane Indian Reservation.
• “Five Little Indians” by Michelle Good is a powerful novel that authentically highlights the Indigenous struggle in Canada due to the effects of Residential Schools

Non-fiction Books on Native American History 

• In “Braiding Sweetgrass,” Robin Wall Kimmerer beautifully merges indigenous wisdom with scientific knowledge, inviting readers to reflect on their relationship with the natural world. 
• Terese Marie Mailhot’s “Heart Berries” is a raw and poignant memoir that tackles mental health and identity with grace and courage. 
• David Grann’s “Killers of the Flower Moon” (which is now a movie) uncovers a dark chapter in American history, highlighting the injustices faced by the Osage Nation. 
• Elissa Washuta’s “White Magic” confronts themes of addiction, spirituality, and resilience, presenting a candid look at contemporary Native life. 
• Angeline Boulley’s “Firekeeper’s Daughter” is a gripping young adult thriller that interlaces crime fiction with Ojibwe culture. 
• Finally, “Three Day Road” by Joseph Boyden tells a haunting story of two Cree snipers in World War I. 

Watch Films and TV Shows about Native Americans 

Movies and TV shows focusing on Native Americans offer thoughtful and respectful representations of their narratives. These portrayals help audiences gain a deeper appreciation for the rich culture and history of Native American communities, while also promoting empathy and respect.

• Sitcoms like “Rutherford Falls” and drama/comedy series like “Reservation Dogs” blend humor with heartfelt narratives, shedding light on contemporary issues faced by Native communities. 
• Thrillers such as “Dark Winds” captivate audiences with suspenseful storytelling that honors Indigenous traditions and perspectives. 
• Movies like “Dream Keeper,” a Western drama, and “Smoke Signals,” a beloved drama/comedy, bring forth powerful tales rooted in cultural heritage and personal journeys. 
• Additionally, films like “Rez Ball,”& “Running Brave” both a sports drama, and “Bury My Heart at Wounded Knee,” a Western drama, further explore themes of resilience and identity. 

As we wrap up our celebration of Native American Heritage Month 2024, let’s take a moment to reflect on the powerful stories we’ve explored through books, films, and our Changemaker, Rebecca. These stories continue to enrich our understanding and appreciation of Native cultures. They remind us of the community’s resilience and strength, encouraging us to stand together in support. 

If you’re inspired to make a difference and offer immediate help to those in need, consider volunteering with Crisis Text Line. Your compassion and commitment can provide crucial support to individuals in need of mental health support and contribute to building a more inclusive and supportive world for everyone.