I am part Cherokee (5th generation), but it has always meant a lot to me, so seeing the Mid-American All-Indian Center was high on our list. As you walk in, the Gallery of the Nations Hall is in front of you. In this location, there is an effort to gather all the tribal flags together in one place. This will take time as there are 549 tribal nations, flying their symbols of sovereignty within the borders of the USA. So far the center has approx. 80 nations represented and we were there the day a ceremony brought the Kiowa?s flag to join with the other nations. There is a wonderful quote about how Native American people view themselves that I'd like to share in this journal.
It represents for me what I hope each U.S. citizen can someday believe, regardless of what cultures they descend from. It goes like this, "I am proud to be a citizen of the United States of America, I am proud to belong to my sovereign tribal nations, and I am proud to be a Native American." We all have cultures we are a part of as well as being a part of the United States. We don't all have sovereign tribal nations to belong to, but the idea is to honor our cultural heritage, whatever it is and however varied it is, and to honor our citizenship as well. We can also work at honoring other people's heritage and treasure it for the strength in diversity it brings to our country.
In addition to the Gallery of the Nations, there are several other exhibits. First is the Indian Center Museum where the heritage of Native Americans is showcased. There are examples of bead work, dwellings, clothing and a large teepee which dominates the back of the museum. There is also a "Walk of Fame" representing Indian artists and musicians. Outside on the grounds is an 1800's style Native American Indian Village, which is sure to interest family members of all ages! They also have a very nice gift shop.
The Center holds several special events. In the spring, there is the Wichita Indian Art Market and Exhibition. In May, the River Festival Rendezvous and the last full weekend in July is the Mid-America All-Indian Center Annual Intertribal Powwow. If you'd like information about these and other Indian Center events call 316-262-5221.
The Center is located at the confluence of the Little and Big Arkansas rivers in the heart of Wichita's "Museums on the River" district. From downtown, take U.S. Hwy 54 (Kellogg St.) to Seneca St. N. It's minutes away, and well worth your time!