Celebrating Native American History Month 2025 at SSFS

This November, the SSFS community honors Native American Heritage Month (NAHM). We observe this as a time to celebrate the rich traditions, artistry, and enduring contributions of Indigenous peoples. Across all divisions, students are engaging in learning experiences that deepen understanding of Native cultures and histories while also reflecting on the land that sustains our school community.

One highlight of this month’s celebration was a read-aloud and cultural demonstration led by Jeremy Wright, an accomplished musician and artist who graduated from SSFS in 1989 and now serves as a valued member of our Facilities team. Jeremy shared several handcrafted flutes, one of which he had made himself, and described how the design, materials, and sounds of each instrument were deeply connected to his heritage. Students were captivated as he performed, weaving stories of tradition, craftsmanship, and identity through his music. Through this, the students learned that the flutes are more than instruments; they’re voices that carry stories, prayers, and connections to the earth.

Throughout November, divisional decorations, advisory lessons, and library displays will highlight Native voices, artwork, and contemporary contributions. These campus-wide efforts, with the support of the Office of Institutional Equity, Justice, and Belonging (OIEJB), are designed to celebrate Indigenous resilience and creativity while helping students reflect on the ongoing presence of Native peoples today.

As a Friends school, SSFS also recognizes the historical and spiritual significance of the land we occupy, which is part of the traditional territory of the Piscataway Tribe. This month invites our community to honor that connection, to remember, learn, and act in ways that uphold respect, stewardship, and justice for Indigenous communities past and present.