History
The North Carolina American Indian Heritage Commission was created by the 2021 State Budget Act under G.S. 143B-135.5.
On July 12, 2022, N.C. Department of Natural and Cultural Resources Secretary D. Reid Wilson announced the appointments of Kerry Bird as Director and Quinn Godwin as Associate Director of the newly created North Carolina American Indian Heritage Commission.
“We are committed to inclusive and accurate representation of the people and history of North Carolina,” said Secretary Wilson. “The American Indian Heritage Commission under the leadership of Kerry Bird and Quinn Godwin will help realize this vision by ensuring that state-supported sites and resources preserve and promote American Indian culture and contributions to our state.”
Mission
The North Carolina American Indian Heritage Commission advises and assists the Secretary of Natural and Cultural Resources in the preservation, interpretation, and promotion of American Indian history, arts, customs, and culture.
Powers & Duties
- Assist in the coordination of American Indian cultural events
- Provide oversight and management of all State-managed American Indian historic sites
- Promote public awareness of the annual American Indian Heritage Month Celebration
- Encourage American Indian cultural tourism throughout the State of North Carolina
- Advise the Secretary of Natural and Cultural Resources upon any matter the Secretary may refer