UKB Council meeting draws calls for cooperation, outlines federal advocacy and programs
Speakers at the March Tribal Council meeting called for cooperation among members, while officials reported on federal advocacy efforts and announced upcoming programs and deadlines.
The March meeting of the United Keetoowah Band of Cherokee Indians in Oklahoma Tribal Council was held with all but one member in attendance.
Ernestine Berry, director of the John Hair Cultural Center & Keetoowah Museum, called for cooperation during public comments.
“I just want to encourage the council, that working together is the thing to do,” Berry said. “I would like for us to have a plan to secure the rights and privileges of our people over the next five years.”
Berry urged council members to address disagreements directly and focus on serving the people.
Jeannie Tidwell asked members to participate in preplanning meetings and said their responsibility is to serve tribal members.
Anile Locust said council operations require structure and raised concerns about the Election Ordinance.
“I have asked the Election Ordinance be revised to be aligned with the constitutional requirements – didn’t happen,” Locust said.
Locust also said a January action adding two positions to the housing committee had not been reflected in a revised ordinance or agenda.
Principal Chief Jeff Wacoche reported that he, Congressional Delegate Victoria Holland, and attorney Bryan Shade met with congressional offices in Washington, D.C., during the week of Feb. 9 regarding Indian Health Service and federal funding.
“We reminded congressional offices of our request to ensure that if the House of Representatives intends to seat any delegate in fulfillment of the treaty obligations of the United States to the Cherokee people, it must seat the UKB delegate in addition to the delegates from the Cherokee Nation of Oklahoma and the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians at the same time,” Wacoche said.
After executive session, attorney Bryan Shade announced a paid internship for one UKB college student who has completed at least one year. The six-week program includes one week in Washington, D.C.
Applications open March 16 on the UKB Facebook page and close April 15.
Applications for the Election Board are due March 23 ahead of a special council meeting March 24 at noon.
The Echota Eggs-traordinary Extravaganza is scheduled for March 28 at 10 a.m., with activities including egg hunts, arts and crafts, and music.
By Staff Reports | Giduwa Cherokee News reports on Cherokee people and tribal governance in Indian Country. Based in Candy Mink Springs, Oklahoma. Reporting prioritizes verified records and serves all communities. Giduwa Cherokee News® is a registered trademark of Candy Mink Springs Media LLC.