Recognizing Native American Donors and Bringing Awareness to Donation within Native American Communities
The Association for Multicultural Affairs in Transplantation (AMAT) recognizes the significance of the National Native American Heritage Month* theme, “Celebrating Tribal Sovereignty and Identity.”
Tribal sovereignty empowers Native American communities to make decisions regarding their property and citizens with full participation and consent.
During the month of November, we highlight the contributions of Native American donors and donor families whose selfless gifts have saved countless lives. We also raise awareness about the pressing need for organ, eye and tissue donors within Native American communities.
Native Americans and Alaska Natives currently make up approximately 2% of the U.S. population, with over 900 American Indians/Alaska Natives on the national organ transplant waiting list—representing about 1% of the total list.
By understanding and respecting the rich cultural heritage and sovereignty of Native American peoples, we can work toward a more inclusive healthcare system that recognizes and honors their contributions, particularly in the field of donation and transplantation.
*In 1990 President George H. W. Bush approved a joint resolution designating November 1990 “National American Indian Heritage Month.” Similar proclamations, under variants on the name (including “Native American Heritage Month” and “National American Indian and Alaska Native Heritage Month”) have been issued each year since 1994.