Today marks a first for Native American nations. The National Congress of American Indians (NCAI) is opening an Embassy of Tribal Nations in Washington, DC. The event coincides with President Obama’s 1st Annual Tribal Nations Conference, set to begin on Thursday.

NCAI President Jefferson Keel marked the occasion, saying:

For the first time since settlement, tribal nations will have a permanent home in Washington, D.C. where they can more effectively assert their sovereign status and facilitate a much stronger nation-to-nation relationship with the federal government.

The official opening of the embassy will take place later today. Tribal leaders, Members of Congress and administration officials are likely to attend.

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Details on the official opening:

WHO: Tribal Leaders, International Dignitaries, Supporters of Indian Country

WHAT: Embassy of Tribal Nations Gala Open House

WHEN: Tuesday, November 3, 2009–2:00-8:00 p.m.

WHERE: Embassy of Tribal Nations — 1516 P Street, NW — Washington, D.C. 20005