The statue that stands atop the Oklahoma State Capitol building is known as “The Guardian.” It is a three-ton, seventeen-and-one-half-foot-tall bronze representation of an American Indian man. This colossal statue was designed by state Senator Enoch Kelly Haney, who is of Seminole and Creek descent, and was lifted to its prominent place on June 7, 2002 (Oklahoma State Senate; Oklahoma Arts Council; Oklahoma Historical Society).

“The Guardian” symbolizes the historic and enduring presence of Native American people in Oklahoma. Haney’s creation stands as a tribute to the cultural significance and sovereignty of Oklahoma’s indigenous tribes. The statue holds a staff that reaches 22 feet into the sky and was cast in 50 sections using 4,000 pounds of bronze. The pose of the statue and the details were carefully chosen to reflect the strength and spirit of the Native American community (Tulsa World; The Oklahoman).