Celebrating Native American heritage

VIRGINIA BEACH, Va. (WAVY) - Many gathered in Virginia Beach Sunday to celebrate National Native American Heritage Month.

The event recognized the traditions and contributions of Native American culture through music, dance and the spoken word. Organizers say it’s a chance for everyone to experience and learn about the rich history of the people who were the first to step foot in the United States.

“Absolutely amazing,” Spectator Erica Evers told WAVY.com. “When they were doing the sneak up I wanted to start crying. It’s empowering, it’s beautiful and I think everybody should know the true meaning of being a Native American.”

Native American Heritage Month highlights the relationship between the United States government and the Native American governments.