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Remembrance and Healing During Native American Heritage Month

By Kristin Keen

November marks Native American Heritage Month, a time to honor the rich cultural tapestry and contributions of Native American communities throughout history. It is a focused period where we can reflect on the enduring legacy of Native Americans, including their continued presence in Charlotte.

Generations ago, the region was home to various indigenous tribes, such as the Catawba and Cherokee. These communities thrived with unique customs, languages, and traditions, providing a strong foundation for the area’s cultural landscape. Indeed, their legacy and continued presence are seen and felt throughout the region.

The arrival of European settlers profoundly impacted Native American communities, ushering in an era of cultural disruption and displacement. The introduction of new diseases, forced relocations, and encroachment on ancestral lands resulted in devastating consequences for indigenous populations. The European quest for resources and territorial expansion disrupted traditional ways of life, leading to the erosion of native cultures. The impact extended beyond immediate challenges, influencing the social, economic, and spiritual fabric of Native American societies. Acknowledging this historical trauma is crucial in understanding the complex legacy that continues to shape the experiences of indigenous communities today.

Native American Heritage Month offers the opportunity to foster a deeper understanding and encourage necessary healing surrounding our collective history and culture. This month, let us honor and amplify the voices of Native American communities, acknowledging their enduring legacy and contributions to the cultural mosaic of Charlotte and the nation.

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Janet LaBar

Executive Director​
jlabar@womensimpactfund.org

With more than 25 years of experience, Janet has a proven track record of leading organizations and teams in developing strategies that foster thriving communities. Her career is dedicated to the well-being of the places she serves, and the people and businesses within them, positioning her as a trusted sounding board, critical thinker, and purposeful protagonist across corporate, government, education, entrepreneurial, and civic spheres.
Janet joined Women’s Impact Fund in June 2025 to guide one of Charlotte’s most respected, women-led philanthropic organizations into its next phase of growth and impact. In partnership with the Women’s Impact Fund team, Board, Advisors, members, volunteers, and key community partners, she will continue strengthening communities by maximizing women’s leadership in philanthropy through collective giving, education, and engagement.
Inspired by her family, teams who dare greatly, and people and communities striving to be their best selves, Janet’s impactful career includes leadership roles as President and CEO of Charlotte Regional Business Alliance, President and CEO of Greater Portland Inc, and Chief Performance Officer of Greater Phoenix Economic Council. As a first-generation Filipino American, her lived experience deeply informs her professional drive to create equitable economic growth and opportunity in the metro areas she’s served.
She holds a BA in Communication Arts from the University of West Florida and an MBA in Marketing from the University of Phoenix. Janet and her husband James are proud parents to an older daughter, and a daughter and son who are twins.