November marks Native American Heritage Month, calling attention to the rich and diverse cultures, traditions, and histories of Tribal Nations, and acknowledging the important contributions of Indigenous peoples. North Carolina has an extensive Native American history that’s highlighted in state historical sites, museum exhibits, and more.

Southeastern Community College (SCC) is proud to celebrate our regional history of Indigenous people.

Native American Heritage Month is also an opportune time to educate the public about tribes, to raise general awareness about the unique challenges Native people have faced both historically and, in the present, and the ways in which tribal citizens have worked to overcome these challenges.

North Carolina has a rich history of American Indian Tribes across the state from the mountains to the sea. Columbus County is fortunate to celebrate the Waccamaw Siouan Tribe in our local history.

Many American Indians have fought for the right to be educated, vote, and be recognized on the state and federal levels. (North Carolina Commission of Indian Affairs) “SCC has played an important role in the education of tribal members,” said Pamela-Young Jacobs, Waccamaw Siouan Tribal Member. “Many began their educational journey on the SCC campus, we continue to support the educational journey of Indigenous people across the state.”

To learn more about North Carolina’s Native American tribes, visit the North Carolina Commission of Indian Affairs, the Columbus County Public Library, or the Williamson Library located on our college campus.

Land Acknowledgement

The College would like to honor the land beneath us. We acknowledge that this land is the traditional and ancestral homeland of the Waccamaw Siouan Tribe of North Carolina. Southeastern Community College recognizes and respects the enduring relationship that exists between tribes, states, and federal government, and we affirm Southeastern Community College’s commitment to a partnership with Native Nations and Urban Indian communities through education and community outreach activities.

Pictured from left to right: Cliff Young, Mary Revels, Chelsea Graham (Former student), Nancy Dudley, Dr. Chris English, Pamela Young-Jacobs, Rakyah Jacobs (East Columbus High School, CCP), Andrea Jacobs-Rofail, Faith Jacobs (former student and Keeper of the Wampum for the Waccamaw Siouan Tribe)