Establishing the embassy has been one of
Allen’s top priorities during the several years he’s served with
NCAI. Ideas for the embassy were spawned in the 1980s, he said,
and donations from tribes started being seriously collected in the
2000s.
“It’s been my baby for so long, and it will
continue to be until it’s totally paid off.”
NCAI leaders spent a chunk of late-winter and
spring sealing the deal on the 17,000-square-foot office building
with an 8,500-square-foot lot. It was listed for sale at $8.5
million.
Research from the organization’s planners
indicated it was a good time to buy, especially considering the
dip in prices in the real estate market and the high cost of rent
in the region. They hope the investment will increase the value
and long-term equity and stability of the organization’s assets.
Hundreds of tribal citizens gathered at the
facility on launch day, taking turns touring the main building and
participating in a day-long ceremony devoted to its dedication.
In the morning, approximately 70 tribal leaders
gathered for a prayer and blessing event. Later, traditional food
and drink was served, and many in attendance heralded the opening
of the embassy.
“It’s a new time, it’s a new era,” said Ernie
Stevens Jr., chairman of the National Indian Gaming Association
and citizen of the Oneida Nation of Wisconsin.
“We call this Indian country in Washington,
D.C. – right here, right now. I think it’s going to make a
difference. This is our home.”
John Echohawk, the Pawnee director of the
Native American Rights Fund, was pleased to see the embassy open,
adding that he expects it to be another avenue for tribes to
achieve accomplishments in Washington.
Billy Frank Jr., chairman of the Northwest
Indian Fisheries Commission and citizen of the Nisqually Tribe,
remembered taking part in a fire ceremony years ago, which
launched the fundraising for the embassy.
“All of you helped the fire get bigger and
bigger over time, and now look where we are today.”
Earlier in the day, hoop, shawl and jingle
dancers performed and NCAI president Jefferson Keel, a citizen of
the Chickasaw Nation, took part in a Circle Dance.
Many in attendance were impressed by the
physical features of the building, which include high ceilings,
hardwood floors, remodeled baths, two new kitchens and a
kitchenette.
Much of the space has already been decorated by
NCAI staffers with uniquely Indian elements, including tribal
paintings, posters and other artwork.
NCAI has also reserved a room for tribal
leaders who visit Washington and need a place to work. The space
features desks with work stations. On the wall is an enlarged
picture of several tribal leaders who originally gathered decades
ago to help found the organization.
Sen Tom Udall, D-N.M., said he believed the
embassy would serve to strengthen tribal sovereignty.
“Tribal nations now have a permanent place in
Washington, D.C. … this is no small thing,” said the senator, who
was one of many lawmakers who took part in the opening gala.
In total, the facility is made up of three
office buildings and three carriage houses. The parking lot, where
the dedication festivities were held, has space for 22 vehicles.
Beyond NCAI, one of the buildings also now
houses the D.C. arm of NARF, as well as the
Native
American Contractors Association.
