Noem announces plan to display tribal flags in the Capitol Rotunda

PIERRE, S.D. — Gov. Kristi Noem announced on Wednesday that she plans to permanently display the flags of South Dakota’s nine tribal nations in the State Capitol Rotunda.

“South Dakota has a unique opportunity for a new beginning between the state and tribal governments. Bringing tribal flags to the rotunda is a sign that we are unified and working together to create policies for the next generation,” said Governor Kristi Noem. “I want our rotunda to be a place that represents the culture of South Dakota, and we can’t do that without the symbols of all nine tribes. May this be a sign to all that South Dakota is united, that we have common ground, and that we truly embrace the meaning of the word Dakota. We are allies.”

“Displaying each of the nine South Dakota tribal flags in the Capitol rotunda is a great step in strengthening State-Tribal relationships,” said Secretary of Tribal Relations David Flute. “The Department of Tribal Relations looks forward to coordinating with the Governor’s office and tribal leaders to set a time and date to hold a formal flag display ceremony.”

Noem made the announcement on State-Tribal Relations Day. This year the event focused on efforts between the South Dakota Department of Tribal Relations and the Department of Education to promote knowledge of traditional culture in the classroom.