Celebrating Native American Heritage Month in November is an opportunity to honor and recognize the rich and diverse cultures, traditions, and contributions of Indigenous peoples in the United States. It is a time to learn about the history and resilience of Native American communities and to acknowledge the important role they have played in shaping the nation. Activities during this month often include cultural events, educational programs, art exhibitions, and discussions that promote a greater understanding of Native American heritage and contemporary issues.
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The Hobbs Scholarship for Native American & Indian Fund provides financial assistance to qualified American Indian or Alaska-Native Juris Doctor degree candidates enrolled at GW Law. This award is for any student who is a member of a federally recognized Indian tribe or a student with natural parents or grandparents who are/were members of a federally recognized tribe. Established by Charles A. Hobbs in 1999, Hobbs (1928-2017) received his JD from GW Law in 1957 and dedicated his professional career towards working with American Indian tribes and organizations. He acted as lead attorney on several landmark Indian law cases.
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Alumni Spotlight
Francis La Flesche
- About Francis La Flesche
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Francis La Flesche, a distinguished figure in Native American ethnology and anthropology, is renowned for his significant contributions to the preservation and understanding of Indigenous cultures. Born in 1857 to a prominent Omaha family, La Flesche pursued a remarkable academic journey, culminating in his graduation from the National University Law School (now George Washington University Law School) in 1892 and earning a master's degree there in 1893. This educational background allowed him to navigate the complex legal and cultural landscapes facing Indigenous communities in the late 19th and early 20th centuries.
La Flesche's groundbreaking work includes collaborations with the Smithsonian Institution's Bureau of American Ethnology, where he helped document and preserve the languages, traditions, and folklore of several Native American tribes. His writings and research continue to be invaluable resources for scholars and Native communities today, shedding light on the rich and diverse heritage of Indigenous peoples. Francis La Flesche's legacy as a GW Law alumnus and his pioneering ethnographic contributions have left an indelible mark on the field of Native American studies, and his dedication to preserving and celebrating Indigenous cultures remains an inspiration.