Deciding the future of the Illinois River Watershed

For decades, Cherokees have been noticing a change to our water resources. When I was a boy the Illinois River was pristine, even in the deepest areas, and at Lake Tenkiller visitors and locals alike flocked to the crystal-clear waters during the warmest parts of the summer. Like most people in this region, I treasure the memories of swimming, fishing and catching crawdads in the creeks and rivers that make up the Illinois River Watershed. The entire watershed west of Arkansas is within the Cherokee Nation, making it a uniquely Cherokee water...

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Spirit of Native people unbowed at Standing Rock

Recently, I had the fortunate opportunity to visit the Standing Rock Sioux Reservation and the Sacred Stone Camp, where close to 10,000 people were standing in solidarity with the tribe in its righteous campaign to protect its historic and sacred sites, along with its precious natural resources. I was deeply touched by the resolute spirit and collective power of the water protectors, and I am so proud the Cherokee Nation is standing united with our brothers and sisters from North Dakota. It was a powerful moment to stand shoulder to shoulder...

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Back home: Cherokee Nation secures ownership of Sequoyah’s Cabin

Cherokee Nation was the first tribe to adopt a written language, and the impact the syllabary has had on our people and the advancements of our tribe continue still today. Sequoyah, also known as George Gist, gave us one of the most significant gifts in our history. Sequoyah’s invention of the syllabary had an immeasurable impact on us as a tribe. Recently, Cherokee Nation finalized the purchase of Sequoyah’s Cabin, near Sallisaw, from the state....

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Diversifying the Cherokee portfolio through federal contracts

Cherokee Nation’s entertainment venues are thriving these days and provide budget dollars that fund services for our people.  That is a good thing for all of northeast Oklahoma.  However, real, long-term success for the tribe and for our future cannot hinge on just one industry. Diversification is essential. At Cherokee Nation, it is important to become less dependent on gaming dollars, so our businesses are making a concerted effort to diversify, broaden and expand.  Today, we have 35 active business enterprises with a far-reaching...

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