AUGUST 31, 2025 — The Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes (CSKT), located on the Flathead Indian Reservation in northwestern Montana, USA, are considering a new tribal flag designed to better represent all three constituent tribes: the Séliš (Salish), Ksanka (Kootenai), and Ql̓ispé (Upper Pend d’Oreille), reports the Char-Koosta News on their website and on a Facebook post.
After a lengthy deliberation, the Tribal Council has selected a new design and is offering a 30-day public comment period before making a final decision.
The current CSKT flag features symbols of a traditional Plains lifestyle, with a central disk illustrating a buffalo and bear prints, a tepee, Rocky Mountains, and traditional weapons, according to FOTW.
The proposed new flag aims for greater inclusivity by displaying the official seal and prominently including all three tribal names of Séliš, Ksanka, and Ql̓ispé. According to the CSKT, the official seal, originally designed by artist Corky Clairmont, features Chief Koostatah, a prominent Ksanka leader, overlooking whitewater and the Flathead River, symbolizing both heritage and a forward-looking vision for the tribes.
Before the new flag design is officially adopted to replace all existing flags, the CSKT Tribal Council is inviting comments from tribal members and the public. The comment period is open until September 30, 2025. Submissions will help inform the Council’s final decision.
Image: Char-Koosta News and FOTW
