INDIANAPOLIS (WISH) — The Indianapolis Indians have unveiled a new Native American Heritage collection that honors the legacy of Eastern Woodlands tribes, historically connected to Central Indiana. The new alternate logos, jerseys, and caps will debut on the field during the team’s annual Nat ive American Heritage Night on May 8 at Victory Field. The uniforms will then be worn during six games throughout the season beginning in May. The design draws inspiration from Eastern Woodlands ribbon work, a traditional art form known for layered patterns that symbolize cultural continuity, identity, and pride among tribal communities. The ribbon-inspired elements appear throughout the design, including intricate patterns featured on the sleeves of the jerseys. Team officials say the artwork reflects three central themes: The heritage of Eastern Woodlands tribes, the long history of the Indianapolis Indians baseball organization, and the team’s connection to Indianapolis. The project took about 18 months to complete and included more than 100 interviews with local leaders, Native American community members, and Major League Baseball representatives. “We pride ourselves in being stewards of the Indianapolis Indians name, and the unveiling of our Native American Heritage collection is an important evolution to our existing partnership with the Miami Nation of Indians of Indiana,” Indianapolis Indians President and CEO Randy Lewandowski said in a statement. “We look forward to elevating and celebrating the history of Eastern Woodlands tribes on Native American Heritage Night, throughout the season and into the future.” The Indians first partnered with the Miami Nation of Indians of Indiana ahead of the 2023 season and have since hosted an annual Native American Heritage Night. The event includes pregame ceremonies performed by the Miami Nation, educational displays about Indigenous history and culture, as well as recognition programs honoring veterans and supporting scholarships. “Working with the Indianapolis Indians on this partnership has been an absolute pleasure,” Chief Brian Buchanan of the Miami Nation of Indians of Indiana said. “We look forward to continuing to contribute to this excellent platform and educating the broader community about the Indigenous people of Indiana.” Beginning in 2026, the team also plans to install a permanent land acknowledgment at Victory Field. The statement will be etched into the concrete at the Toyota Center Field Gate and will also be read before each game. The organization said it is also launching a mandatory awareness and education program for employees as part of the broader initiative. Specialty merchandise from the Native American Heritage collection is available now at the team’s online store. ...read more read less