President Reagan and Santa Fe artist John Nieto (Mescalero Apache) stand in the Oval Office. Behind them is the painting, Delegate to the White House, a contemporary-style depiction of a Native American man in traditional dress.
Since before the White House was constructed, Native delegations have met with U.S. presidents to negotiate treaties, defend tribal sovereignty, reinforce existing treaties, and establish alliances. According to Nieto, the painting depicts Indigenous groups’ “historic relationship with many Chief Executives.”
The painting remained at the White House through Reagan’s presidency and is now a part of Ronald Reagan Presidential Library and Museum collection.
