National Native American Heritage Month is commemorated in November, and the effort to establish it began more than a century ago.

The first American Indian Day was celebrated in May 1916 in New York. The event culminated an effort by Red Fox James, a member of the Blackfeet Nation, who rode across the United States on horseback seeking approval from 24 state governments to designate a day to honor American Indians. 

In 1990, more than seven decades later, President George H.W. Bush signed a joint congressional resolution designating the month of November National American Indian Heritage Month. 

Similar proclamations have been issued every year since 1994 to recognize what is now called National Native American Heritage Month. 

This Facts for Features presents statistics about the American Indian or Alaska Native population, one of the six major race categories defined by the U.S. Office of Management and Budget.

The following facts are possible thanks to responses to the U.S. Census Bureau’s surveys. 

“We appreciate the public’s cooperation as we continuously measure America’s people, places and economy,” the agency said.

Did You Know?

7.7 million
The nation’s American Indian or Alaska Native population alone or in combination with other race groups in 2024.

9.0 million
The projected American Indian or Alaska Native population alone or in combination with other race groups on July 1, 2060. It would constitute 2.5% of the total population.

574
The number of federally recognized Indian tribes in 2025.

325
The number of distinct, federally recognized American Indian reservations in 2025, including federal reservations and off-reservation trust lands. 

221
The number of Alaska Native village statistical areas in 2025.

123,404
The number of single-race American Indian or Alaska Native veterans of the U.S. Armed Forces in 2024.

2,356
The number of residents of Lake County, California, who identify as American Indian or Alaska Native alone, based on the American Community Survey.