Kansas Governor Offers Apology to American Indians

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Statehood 1861

Native Brief: Topeka - Leaders of the Kickapoo Tribe, Prairie Band Potawatomi Nation, Iowa Tribe, Sac and Fox Nation, and Kaw Nation joined Kansas Governor Sam Brownback last week for the Kansas 150 Tribal Commemoration at the Kansas Historical Society. The event was part of the state's sesquicentennial celebration.

Recognizing the tribes' impact on the State of Kansas, Governor Brownback signed a proclamation recalling the wrongs committed against them through forced relocation and mistreatment and offered an apology on behalf of the people of Kansas.

Tribal Chairman with Kansas Governor Brownback after the proclamation signing. (l to r) Mike Dougherty, Sac & Fox; Steve Ortiz, Prairie Band Potawatomi Nation (shaking hands with Governor Brownback); Steve Cadue, Kickapoo Tribe; Tim Rhodd, Iowa Tribe; Guy Monroe, Kaw Nation

"Our state's sesquicentennial also has been a time to rediscover the heritage and cultures that have helped shape Kansas history and will continue to impact the future of this great state. The history and culture of our state have been significantly influenced by Native Americans and indigenous peoples," Governor Brownback said.

19 tribes were once relocated to Kansas before they were ultimately relocated to Indian Territory, which became the State of Oklahoma. There are four tribes residing in Kansas today:

"As Governor, I resolve we will move forward with the recognized tribes in a positive and constructive relationship that will help us fairly and effectively resolve differences to achieve our mutual goals and work together to protect this land we call Kansas," Brownback said.

He also presented an American Bison from the state herd to each of the tribes.

Prairie Band Potawatomi Nation We-Ta-Se Color Guard

The event included a welcome from Chris Howell, executive director for the Kansas Native American Affairs Office, followed by posting of the colors by Prairie Band Post 410 Color Guard. Jennie Chinn, executive director of the Kansas Historical Society, also made remarks about Kansas 150 events.

The commemoration is one of several events that are part of the Kansas 150 commemoration of statehood. Kansas was admitted to the Union January 29, 1861.

photo credits Suzanne Heck, PhD, APR, Potawatomi News
updated November 23, 2011 2:50 pm est; posted November 23, 2011 6:30 am est