Nebraska, once so central to a flourishing Native American culture on the Great Plains, never has been a gathering place for the National Congress of American Indians.

Not until now.

For the first time since the congress formed in 1944, Lincoln will play host to dozens of tribes and 800 or more tribal representatives from all over the United States.

The mid-year conference begins with a long list of Sunday discussions, among them, climate change and violence against Native women. The first day of the four-day event concludes with a powwow and cultural celebration at the Indian Center near the Bob Devaney Sports Center.