SEPTEMBER: CHIEF'S CHAT

Our work together as a sovereign people continues on many fronts, from defending our rights in Washington to celebrating the growth of our communities here at home. This month, I want to share updates on the proposed legislative language from Senator Mullin, the opening of our Saline District Community Center, and the groundbreaking for our new Council House.

Protecting Our Sovereignty in Congress

Recently, we learned that legislative language has been secretly drafted to be added to federal budget legislation by Senator Markwayne Mullin that would strip away rights of the UKB. This provision is an attempt to circumvent the courts, the Department of the Interior, and Congress itself by undermining our sovereignty through the back door. Let me be clear: we will not stand by while our federally recognized rights – confirmed by history, Congress, and the courts – are attacked. Our Tribal Officers, legal and public affairs teams are actively fighting this, and I encourage every member to raise your voice to both Senator Mullin and Cherokee Nation of Oklahoma leadership to oppose this harmful language. Please visit https://www.ukb-nsn.gov/DefendUKBRights and send a letter to Sen. Mullin demanding he retract this legislative provision.

A Place for Community – Saline District

Amid this fight, we also celebrate progress. Last month, we opened the new Saline District Community Center – a place built by and for our people. This center will serve as a hub for cultural programs, community gatherings, and essential services. It represents the strength of our community spirit and the resilience that has carried us through generations. I want to thank everyone who helped make this project possible, from our Council to the local crews who worked tirelessly to bring this vision to life.

Building the Future – New Council House

Finally, we have broken ground on our new Council House, located on our trust land. This building will be more than a seat of government – it will be a visible and lasting symbol of our sovereignty and self-governance. This milestone is a reminder that every battle we fight in court, in Congress, or in the community is about securing a future where the UKB controls its own destiny.

Our path is not always easy, but it is always worth it. Together, we honor our ancestors, defend our sovereignty, and build a stronger future for our children and grandchildren.