LANSING - Governor Jennifer M. Granholm has declared November as American Indian and Alaskan Native Heritage Month to recognize their contributions to Michigan.

Under the theme, "Creating a Healthy Native World," the special observation recognizes the initial inhabitants' contributions to the cultural history of the nation and the state.

The Department of Human Services, in collaboration with Michigan's 12 federally recognized Native American Tribes, has developed a coordinated vision and service delivery system that focuses on the preservation of Indian families. Working together to deliver services to children and families will help protect, preserve and strengthen families both on and off tribal lands.

"Michigan residents who are American Indian and Alaskan Native have a rich cultural history," DHS Director Marianne Udow said. "We want to ensure that our efforts to protect families and make them self sufficient honor and respect their traditions and cultural practices."