Gallery of Nations

Strength...Tradition...Pride...Unity...

While viewing these flags:

• feel the strength of the Indian people.
• live the traditions that have been native to this land for generations.
• absorb the pride Native Americans hold in their heart for their people and their tribe.
• learn the unity of over 500 nations flying their symbols of sovereignty within the borders of the United States of America.

The "Gallery of Nations" has been created to help visitors understand the strength, traditions, pride, and sovereignty of the Native people of North America.

Each flag represents a sovereign Native American Nation recognized by the United States Government and found within its borders.

The flags also represent the individuals who make up these nations. Stand in silence to feel the tears and joys of the past mixed with hope and determination for the future. Look in awe and listen for the voices of millions of people saying "I am proud to be a citizen of the United States of America, I am proud to belong to my sovereign tribal nation, and I am proud to be a Native American."

The "Gallery of Nations" is a major permanent exhibition at the Indian Center Museum. We are collecting and exhibiting the flags of the officially recognized tribes in the United States. These flags are displayed in our 10,000 sq. ft. 'Kiva' Ceremonial Hall. This is the first exhibit of its kind in America. All the flags have been donated. Many of the flags were given by the tribal council. Some of the flags were donated by individuals to honor their heritage or in memory of a loved one. Included in the exhibition are labels about each tribe, giving information about their history and culture.

Currently there are 549 recognized Native American tribes in the United States. Each tribe is considered a sovereign nation with its own civil court, jurisdictions, and rights. The flags symbolize the history, culture, and future of these societies; societies which have had a tremendous impact on the development of our country.

Upon completion, the "Gallery of Nations" will demonstrate the large number of Native American tribes found within our borders, and the pride each tribe has in its own individual identity.

We would like to express our sincere thanks to the flag donors.

The Gallery of Nations was funded by a grant from the Travel and Tourism Development Division of the Kansas Department of Commerce and Housing and Target Stores. Our sincere gratitude is extended to the State of Kansas and Target Stores.