RICHMOND, Va. (AP) - Members of Virginia Indian tribes and state officials gathered on the grounds of the Capitol to dedicate the site of a future tribute to the state's native people.
The ceremony Thursday included the sprinkling of tobacco on the site, the burning of sage and spiritual blessings for those in attendance.
The grounds of the Capitol include memorials to former governors, civil rights leaders and Edgar Allen Poe, but no recognition of Virginia's 11 recognized Indian tribes.
Del. Chris Peace of Hanover co-chairs the Virginia Indian Commemorative Commission. He says members of the commission will narrow the proposed designs for the tribute to three, then bring the artists to Richmond to discuss their work.
Peace says work on the tribute should begin in late 2013.
