Learning the native language of ancestors is a meaningful way for descendants of immigrants to connect with their heritage. Experts say knowing the mother tongue can unlock family history and enhance cultural identity. Heritage language learners who grew up hearing a language other than Engish at home often have an advantage because they learned pronunciation early, but they might hesitate due to gaps in grammar. Experts encourage learners to embrace mistakes and enjoy the process. Listening to relatives, engaging with podcasts and videos in the language, and traveling to ancestral homelands can help. Community language schools and cultural activities also offer valuable opportunities for learning and connection.

November marks the start of National Native American Heritage Month. It's a time to celebrate the diverse histories and cultures of hundreds of tribal communities across the U.S. In Alaska, a family carries on a tradition of harvesting salmonberries even after a devastating typhoon. In North Carolina, a group of Indigenous girls convinced tribal lawmakers to grant rights to a river. And in Oklahoma, a tattoo artist is working to revitalize ancestral markings. U.S. presidents have issued proclamations for decades honoring Native peoples in the month that coincides with the traditional harvest season.