Author: muscadmin
2020-2022 Creek Nation TANF/TFAP
Public Notice:
The General Public is invited to review and comment on the 2020-2022 Creek Nation TANF/TFAP (Tribal Family Assistance Plan) regarding the use and allocation of Federal Funds received by the Muscogee (Creek) Nation TANF department for its clients. Your comments should be received no later than August 31st, 2019. The document can be viewed at 300 N. Mission Okmulgee, Ok. 74447.
Muscogee (Creek) Nation holds dedication for state-of-the-art bridge
For Immediate Release
July 23, 2019
Muscogee (Creek) Nation holds dedication for state-of-the-art bridge
TWIN HILLS, Okla. – The Muscogee (Creek) Nation Tribal Construction and MCN Federal Roads Program in partnership with Premier Steel have completed construction on a bridge that is the first of its kind. The road leading to Concharty United Methodist Church became impassable this spring due to recent flooding in the area. This road is known to present problems as it has washed away twice this year.
“We were fortunate to be able to donate this project for the benefit of the community and the members of Concharty United Methodist Church and replace it with a more sound construction option,” Principal Chief James R. Floyd said.
Premier Steel reached out to MCN Secretary of Interior Jesse Allen about the development of their Fast Cast Bridge System, which provided an opportunity to model cutting edge technology in a rural community.
“It was our honor at Premier Steel to work with Muscogee (Creek) Nation Tribal Construction department and Federal Roads Program to provide the Fast Cast Bridge for installation for the Concharty Bridge,” Premier Steel President Andy Vanaman said. “We believe the Fast Cast Bridge, which was installed in one day, will revolutionize bridge replacement and the Muscogee (Creek) Nation is leading the way.”
The new Concharty Bridge construction was efficient in time and cost.
“A box culvert of this size would cost $50,000-60,000 and normally take two months. This is a turn-key job at $40,000 and takes a week to complete,” Tribal Construction Manager Steve Emerson said.
The Fast Cast Bridge System uses concrete, rebar and steel framing to create a bridge able to withstand a heavier load than a typical concrete bridge and rated for use on federal highways. The Concharty Bridge is more than a means for transportation, it is a passage to preserve the longstanding fellowship of the Muscogee (Creek) people.
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Muscogee (Creek) Nation asks citizens to update citizenship cards
For immediate release
July 23, 2019Media Contact
Amanda Rutland
O: (918) 732-7615
C: (918) 752-7302
arutland@muscogeenation.comMuscogee (Creek) Nation asks citizens to update citizenship cards
OKMULGEE, Okla. — The Muscogee (Creek) Nation Human Services Department has been receiving an influx of expired citizenship cards.
An expired citizenship card does not affect citizenship.
MCN Human Services Director Denise Honawa said citizens with expired cards are being asked to update their information.
“Citizens who have not updated their citizenship cards are being asked to do so. No one is being turned away from services, but their applications are held as pending until we receive the updated information,” Honawa said.
Citizenship Director Nathan Wilson said the expiration has a dual benefit to the Nation.
The expiration allows MCN citizenship cards to be used as a form of identification.
“In order for our citizenship cards to be accepted as a form of state identification, it has to have an expiration date,” Wilson said.
The expiration also allows the Nation to gather data for grants and budgeting.
“We routinely provide information to the Planning and Grants department. By requiring citizens to update information, such as by having the citizenship cards expire, it gives the Nation the most current data,” Wilson said.
To update an expired citizenship card, please bring a primary form of identification such as drivers license or birth certificate with a secondary form of ID to the Jenks or Okmulgee Citizenship Offices.
Citizens may trade in the expired card to receive an updated card at no cost or a card replacement fee is $5.
For more information please call (918) 732-7941 or visit the Citizenship page of the MCN website.
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Mission home successful for Mission 22 memorial
For Immediate Release
July 22, 2019
Media Contact:
Liz Gray
O: (918) 549-2453
C: (918) 758-8106
egray@muscogeenation.comMission home successful for Mission 22 memorial
OKMULGEE, Okla. – Mission 22 ‘The War At Home Memorial’ was safely delivered to its new home July 17 at Veteran’s Park in Broken Arrow, Oklahoma.
The Muscogee (Creek) Nation Lighthorse Police Department joined the rally in Roland, Oklahoma for the Oklahoma leg of the memorial’s marathon from Norfolk, Virginia.
When asked to escort the group, Lighthorse Police Chief Robert Hawkins had an immediate answer.
“I told them we would be honored to do it,” Hawkins said. Three Lighthorse officers joined the group on their motorcycles to represent the Nation.
The 20 steel plates, with silhouette cut outs of veterans lost to suicide due to Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, were escorted by different motorcycle clubs and law enforcement to support American veterans and their families.
Muscogee (Creek) citizen Staff Sgt. Michael K. Coon is one of the veterans honored in the memorial. His father, Michael Coon, became an ambassador with Mission 22 and helped to see the monument moved to its permanent site.
Mission 22 is a nonprofit organization that raises awareness about Veteran suicide. With a rate of 20 Veteran suicides each day, one of the group’s objectives is to bring the number to zero through veteran treatment programs, memorials and national awareness. Treatment programs are offered to veterans for PTSD, brain injury and other issues they may be facing.
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Inter-Tribal Council unanimously pass three resolutions at July quarterly meeting
For Immediate Release
July 19, 2019
Media Contact:
Liz Gray
O: (918) 549-2453
C: (918) 758-8106
egray@muscogeenation.comInter-Tribal Council unanimously pass three resolutions at July quarterly meeting
TULSA, Okla. – The Muscogee (Creek) Nation hosted the quarterly meeting of the Five Civilized Tribes Inter-Tribal Council July 10-12 at the River Spirit Casino Resort.
During the meeting the ITC addressed three resolutions, which passed unanimously. The first resolution passed opposed Oklahoma Governor Kevin Stitt’s attempt to repudiate the State-Tribal Gaming Compact.
The Model Tribal Gaming Compact is a 15-year agreement approved by a vote of Oklahoma citizens in November 2004 in relation to Class III gaming and exclusivity fees paid to the state. Gov. Stitt issued a letter July 5 addressed to tribal leaders for renegotiation of a new gaming compact.
“It is the position of the Inter-Tribal Council and Five Civilized Tribes that the Compacts will automatically renew on January 1, 2020,” the Council declared in their resolution. “The [ITC] do hereby memorialize our intent to reject the State’s attempt to unlawfully and unilaterally terminate the Compact.”
The next resolution supports the expansion of Opportunity Zones in Indian Country. Currently, the Opportunity Zones created through the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017 has been problematic as it places the authority with states’ governors and has caused tribal nations to be disregarded by their respective states when creating these zones.
ITC supports the expansion across Indian Country, “so that tribal nations have the same economic development opportunities as the rest of the country and to further improve the quality of life for Native peoples.”
The final resolution urged the state of Oklahoma to remove the cap on Itemized deductions for gaming losses. The state passed a law creating an overall cap of $17,000 on deductions from state income taxes, which includes deducting gaming losses. This deters gaming players and negatively affects tribal gaming in Oklahoma therefore the ITC “supports the continuation of the federal standard that calculates taxable income by deducting total gaming losses from total winnings,” urging the state to pass and sign legislation removing the cap and include retroactive legislation so casino players can accurately record their income.Prior to the addressed resolutions, each of the ITC leaders provided updates of their respective tribal nations.
MCN Principal Chief James Floyd introduced the new MCN Ambassador Jonodev Chaudhuri to ITC and also addressed the Margaritaville closure due to flooding in the months of May and June.
“We are very thankful to host you here because we didn’t know if we were able to do this 30 days ago,” Floyd said.
Cherokee Nation Principal Chief Bill John Baker gave his final update as principal chief. The newly-elected Principal Chief Chuck Hoskin Jr. will be greeted during the next ITC meeting set to be hosted by the Choctaw Nation.
Choctaw Nation Chief Gary Batton dedicated his time to Choctaw’s involvement within the community, with hosting a veteran’s eligibility summit and a summer feeding program with 10 sites within their boundaries that have provided 13,000 meals and 500 snacks.
Batton announced the economic development of the Choctaw Nation with the opening of a coffee shop in Talahina, Oklahoma.
“This last quarter we opened our first version of what we call our Starbucks café, our Rustic Roast that created about 30 different jobs,” he said.
Chickasaw Nation Governor Anoatubby used part of his update to announce the Chickasaw Nation’s new transportation service center in Ada, Oklahoma.
“They offer access to affordable transportation within our communities,” Anoatubby said. “They provide 43,000 rides for medical appointments, job interviews, worksites and 100s of rides to Native Americans and community members during the year.”
Seminole Nation Principal Chief Greg Chilcoat updated the ITC on the Seminole Nation Language Department’s stride to reach the community.
“Everyday we strive to do something better, something stronger, to be a better example to others as we all move forward,” Chilcoat said.
The Choctaw Nation will host the next ITC meeting Oct. 9-11, 2019.
Mvskoke Nation Youth Services holds 4th Annual Mvskoke Youth Awards
Mvskoke Nation Youth Services holds 4th Annual Mvskoke Youth Awards
OKMULGEE, Okla. — The Mvskoke Nation Youth Services (MNYS) program held the 4th Annual Mvskoke Youth Awards on June 18, 2019 at Camp Loughridge in Tulsa, OK. The Mvskoke Youth Awards is designed to celebrate the accomplishments Muscogee (Creek) youth and adults impacting the lives of Mvskoke youth.
The Mvskoke Youth Awards are modeled after the Center for Native American Youth’s Champion for Change awards. MNYS created two awards in 2016. The Mvnettvlke Onaya (Youth Visionary) award recognizes Mvskoke Youth ages 12-24 making an impact and inspiring their community. In addition to recognizing youth champions, MNYS also created the Vculvlke Mvnettvlke Emvnicv which means “old who helps the young”. This award recognizes adults ages 25 and older who work to improve the lives of Mvskoke youth. In 2019, MNYS expanded the awards to include a youth and adult for each MNYS program goal.
“The Mvskoke Youth Awards began as a celebration of the accomplishments of the Mvskoke Nation Youth Council and all youth and adults affecting the lives of Mvskoke Youth. The people who do this work well, do it because it is just who they are as a person. The MNYS believes it is important to highlight the amazing efforts of these individuals.” Nancy Mason, Mvskoke Nation Youth Services Director said. “We normally award four youth and four adults. This year we decided to tie the awards to our program goals of fostering advocacy, promoting civic duty, creating support, encouraging wellness and providing resources. Our hope is that we will be able to partner with the award recipients to further develop our program.”
Awardees of the Mvnettvlke Onaya award include: Jasmine Buckley, Kintv Deere, Louisa Harjo, Brittany McKane, and Mahiya Ramirez. The Vculvlke Mvnettvlke Emvnicv awardees include: Jordan Harmon, Katie Kelley, Scott Robinson, Laurisa Soap, and Eddie Screechowl. To learn more about the Mvskoke Youth Awards and this year’s award recipients go to www.mvskokeyouth.com/mvkokeyouthawards. To learn more about the MNYS contact Nancy Mason at: 918-549-2557 or nmason@muscogeenation.com.
Hofmeister acknowledges Muscogee (Creek) Nation as leader in investing in state’s educators
For Immediate Release
July 15, 2019
Media Contact:
Liz Gray
O: (918) 549-2453
C: (918) 758-8106
egray@muscogeenation.comHofmeister acknowledges Muscogee (Creek) Nation as leader in investing in state’s educators
TULSA, Okla. – The Muscogee (Creek) Nation Department of Education hosted its EDGE Conference July 10, at the River Spirit Casino Resort.
Over 250 educators from across the state attended the collaborative opportunity for tribal nations and Oklahoma education agencies to focus on the children they have in common in the classroom.
Recent reports revealed that Oklahoma has a high concentration of children suffering from higher Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACE) scores. The ACE test consists of questions about experiences commonly associated with childhood trauma.
“The Muscogee (Creek) Nation has been a leader in investing in teacher professional development around working with children that have had hardship, abuse and neglect in Oklahoma classrooms,” Oklahoma State Superintendent Joy Hofmeister said. “All of us working together I know we can solve this and we can help see kids break the cycle of trauma.”
The conference held presentations about moving from trauma-informed to healing-centered practices, conducting tribal consultation, understanding the Johnson O’Malley Modernization Act and Native EDGE; the Nation’s response to Oklahoma’s eight-year strategic plan for the state’s education.
“A critical component of Native EDGE is this idea of working alongside the state department and the U.S. Department of Education and building these connections with those other agencies for public education,” MCN Department of Education Federal Programs Administrator Sarah Price said.
Price said building bridges with agencies allows MCN as a tribal nation to conduct research, gather data and work alongside school systems about culturally-responsive teaching. The combination of trauma-informed instruction and collaboration with teachers’ in their own classroom help to pave the way from theory to practice.
As a component of Native EDGE, MCN hosted a teacher fellowship prior to the Edge Conference with a professional development opportunity for educational experts interested in the fields of culturally-responsive teaching, student-centered learning practices and building classroom communities.
Thirty-one participants from four school districts: Eufaula, Dewar, Weleetka and Wetumka, sought assistance from the fellowship with cultural sensitivity and methods to connect with Native students.
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Tribal leaders sign joint resolution opposing Gov. Stitt’s repudiation of the State-Tribal gaming compacts
Media Contact
Amanda Rutland
O: (918) 732-7615
arutland@muscogeenation.comTRIBAL LEADERS SIGN JOINT RESOLUTION OPPOSING GOVERNOR STITT’S REPUDIATION OF THE STATE-TRIBAL GAMING COMPACTS
OKLAHOMA CITY (July 12, 2019)– The Inter-Tribal Council of the Five Civilized Tribes (ITC) provided a unified, formal and firm response to Oklahoma Governor Kevin Stitt’s recent repudiation of the Oklahoma Model Tribal Gaming Compact through a joint resolution signed by the leaders of the Cherokee, Chickasaw, Choctaw, Muscogee (Creek) and Seminole Nations. The Tribal leaders unanimously agreed and adopted the resolution at the Inter-Tribal Council meeting today at the River Spirit Casino Resort in Tulsa, Okla.
The ITC is an organization that unites the tribal governments of the Cherokee, Chickasaw, Choctaw, Muscogee (Creek), and Seminole Nations.
Leaders of all five nations, which collectively represent more than 750,000 Native people, jointly signed the resolution outlining a clear and strong response to Governor Stitt’s letter dated July 5, 2019, proposing the Tribes negotiate a new Class III gaming compact.
Tribal leaders expressed their disappointment in the action by Gov. Stitt to take a matter of such great importance to the media before engaging in respectful and purposeful conversations given the complexity of the compacts and the law. The ITC memorialized through the joint resolution their collective intent to reject the state’s attempt to unlawfully and unilaterally terminate the compact.
The gaming industry has become a significant driver of Oklahoma’s economy, employing over 55,000 Oklahomans, primarily in rural areas, and paying more than $1.5 billion in exclusivity fees over the past 15 years, mostly for public education. In response to the exclusive fee arrangement outlined in the compacts, Tribes have invested hundreds of millions of those dollars into education, roads, health care, public safety, and tourism to support the betterment of our state for the benefit of all residents. The tribes’ investments have allowed the state to channel tax revenue to other high priority needs.
During Friday’s general session of the ITC, the tribal leaders detailed the extensive legal history and complexity surrounding gaming compacts and highlighted the current compact, which was approved by Oklahoma voters on November 4, 2004, and approved by the U.S. Secretary of Interior.
The tribes also detailed their concerns that Gov. Stitt made no proposal of any terms, nor presented a framework, for any renegotiation. That noted, the ITC pledged their support for the continuation of the exclusive fee structure and amounts outlined in the current compact. They underscored their confidence in the legal reality that the compact does not expire, but in fact renews on January 1, 2020.
Joint Statement from the Five Tribal Leaders:
“We have considered the state of Oklahoma a trustworthy partner through the years. Working together we have made strides in building a better, stronger and more prosperous Oklahoma for the benefit of the hundreds of thousands of members of our Tribes who live and work here as well as all residents of this great State. We can trace the starting point of our constructive partnership to the carefully crafted and balanced approach represented in the current compact negotiated in a respectful manner between the State of Oklahoma and the sovereign Tribes residing in Oklahoma. This compact represents a continuing and mutually beneficial partnership. The recent action of Governor Stitt puts into question his sincerity to work with us in a cooperative manner moving ahead. We are resolute in our position, and it is our hope Governor Stitt and his advisors will not attempt any bad faith interference on the compact which could set back the progress we have achieved by working together.”
Bill John Baker, Principal Chief, The Cherokee Nation
Bill Anoatubby, Governor, The Chickasaw Nation
Gary Batton, Chief, The Choctaw Nation
James R. Floyd, Principal Chief, The Muscogee (Creek) Nation
Greg P. Chilcoat, Chief, The Seminole Nation
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Inter-Tribal Council of the Five Civilized Tribes Joint Resolution
Muscogee (Creek) Nation Tax Commission addresses new Oklahoma state law
For Immediate Release
July 1, 2019
Media Contact:
Liz Gray
O: (918) 549-2453
egray@muscogeenation.comMuscogee (Creek) Nation Tax Commission addresses new Oklahoma state law
OKMULGEE, Okla. – Effective July 1, a new Oklahoma state law require drivers to carry up-to-date certificates of registration in their vehicles at all times and also includes drivers who choose to sell their vehicles to keep their tag.
The new state law applies to ALL drivers, including those who are registered through the Muscogee (Creek) Nation tag agency.
MCN Deputy Tax Commissioner Jennifer Langley said the new law does not affect policy and procedure for Muscogee (Creek) citizens’ vehicle registration.
“It has always been the policy of the Muscogee (Creek) Nation to retain the paper registration in the vehicle and it has always been policy to remove and retain your vehicle license plate when selling a vehicle and then inform our office,” Langley said.
Muscogee (Creek) citizens in need of a replacement vehicle registration may contact the MCN Tag Agency at: 918-756-6374.
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Muscogee (Creek) Nation Reintegration Program celebrates opening of welding school
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
June 26, 2019
Media Contact:
Liz Gray
O: (918) 549-2453
egray@muscogeenation.comMuscogee (Creek) Nation Reintegration Program celebrates opening of welding school
HENRYETTA, Oklahoma – The Muscogee (Creek) Nation Reintegration Program held a ribbon cutting for their career services center on June 26 in Henryetta, Oklahoma.
RiP Manager Tony Fish said the MCN RiP Career Services Welding School is a concept five years in the making with the event signifying the growth and accomplishments of the program and its students.
The welding program is an 8-week course in partnership with MCN RiP, MCN Workforce, MCN Employment and Training and the Oklahoma Department of Career Technology Education with collaboration with MCN Vocational Rehabilitation.
A total of 11 students are currently enrolled in the program’s first class with expected graduation in mid-July. The program requires a minimum enrollment of 10 students and a maximum of 15 students.
The welding program offers technical education in SMAW and MIG welding, which would prepare students for most applications of welding in various industries.
“The way we are set up we actually have employers waiting in line to hire people,” Fish said.
Through career fairs, participants are able to go through the process of application, interview and drug testing for jobs in one setting.
MCN RiP assists citizens participating in the program through their department with the cost of tuition. Any Muscogee (Creek) citizen can participate in the welding school program with out-of-pocket payments or assistance through other programs such as MCN Employment and Training and MCN Vocational Rehabilitation.
For more information about the welding program, citizens may contact:
MCN Reintegration – (918) 652-2676
MCN Employment and Training – (918) 732-7773
MCN Vocational Rehabilitation – (918) 623-1197
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Muscogee (Creek) Nation releases statement regarding U.S. Supreme Court decision in Murphy case
For Immediate Release
June 27, 2019Media Contact
Amanda Rutland
O: 918.732.7615
arutland@muscogeenation.comMuscogee (Creek) Nation releases statement regarding U.S. Supreme Court decision in Murphy case
OKMULGEE, Okla. — Today, JUNE 27, the U. S. Supreme Court announced its decision to hold additional oral arguments in the Murphy case during the next session in October. The Muscogee (Creek) Nation released the following statement in response to the Court’s decision:
The Muscogee (Creek) Nation respects and welcomes the Court’s decision calling for additional argument. The Nation remains steadfast in its conviction that the 1866 Creek Reservation has never been disestablished and very much looks forward to this opportunity to present further arguments to the Court this Fall.
In the meantime, the Nation will continue to serve all citizens within its borders, Indian and non-Indian alike; to make its strong economic impact felt within Oklahoma, which exceeded $860 million in 2017; and to enjoy a positive and productive relationship with the State of Oklahoma.
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New report shows Muscogee (Creek) Nation had $866 million economic impact on Oklahoma economy
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
June 26, 2019Contact: Amanda Rutland
918.732.7615
ARutland@muscogeenation.comNew report shows Muscogee (Creek) Nation had $866 million economic impact on Oklahoma economy
Study, new website highlight tribe’s investment
TULSA, Oklahoma – The Muscogee (Creek) Nation had an economic impact of $866 million in Oklahoma in 2017, supporting 8,700 jobs that paid $303 million in wages and benefits to workers, according to a new study released Wednesday.
In the U.S., that number increased to an economic impact of $1.4 billion, accounting for more than 10,000 jobs and paying $443 million in wages and benefits.
MCN is the fourth-largest federally recognized tribe in the U.S., with 87,000 citizens. It is headquartered in Okmulgee, Oklahoma.
“The Muscogee (Creek) Nation is thriving and this report showcases how we are providing critical services such as healthcare, transportation and housing to our citizens, as well as sought-after jobs and education opportunities across Oklahoma and the United States,” Principal Chief James Floyd said.
The report, which was released during a news conference Wednesday at River Spirit Casino, breaks down the tribe’s investment in each of the 11 counties in its jurisdictional area in east-central Oklahoma.
Muscogee (Creek) Nation’s commitment to its employees and the greater Tulsa area was evident during recent severe weather and flooding. River
Spirit Casino was shuttered for two full pay periods, affecting 1,400 employees. All employees continued to receive wages during the closure, which totaled $5 million in payroll expenses.“We are committed to our workers and to River Spirit Casino in Tulsa,” Floyd said. “Continuing to pay wages despite the closure shows our investment in our employees.”
According to the report, in 2017, MCN provided more than $12 million to stateand local governments, including nearly $34,000 to school districts in Creek, Muskogee, Okfuskee and Okmulgee counties. Combined with the education portion of gaming exclusivity fees, the report estimates that $8.1 million in education funding was provided to districts within Oklahoma. Economic Impact Group prepared the report after collecting and analyzing data provided by the Muscogee (Creek) Nation.In addition to the report, a new website allows users to select a county and read about how the tribe has invested in that area. The website can be viewed at www.mcnimpact.com. For example, 36 Lighthorse officers patrol an area four times the size of Rhode Island. A team of swift-water rescuers has been deployed to rescue missions across Oklahoma and other states. Meanwhile, a $50 million investment in Okfuskee County built the Okemah Creek Nation Community Hospital, which serves both Native Americans and non-Native Americans.
“We want to continually improve the lives of Muscogee (Creek) Nation citizens and non-citizens alike, and we continue to invest thoughtfully in
critical services areas as well as cultural experiences and tourism,” Floyd said. “We hope the report and accompanying website will give thorough insights into our work in Oklahoma.”The Muscogee (Creek) Nation is the fourth-largest federally recognized tribe in the United States, headquartered in Okmulgee, Oklahoma. MCN has more than 87,000 citizens, 75 percent of which live in Oklahoma.
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Muscogee (Creek) citizen Joy Harjo named US Poet Laureate
(U.S. Poet Laureate Joy Harjo, Photo courtesy of Shawn Miller.)
For Immediate Release
June 21, 2019Muscogee (Creek) citizen Joy Harjo named US Poet Laureate
OKMULGEE, Okla. — Poet, musician and Muscogee (Creek) citizen becomes the first Native American to be named the U.S. Poet Laureate Consultant in Poetry for 2019-2020 by the Library of Congress.
The poet laureate is an annual appointment with each term running September to May. The position of poet laureate seeks to bring a larger appreciation to poetry nationally.
“Joy Harjo has championed the art of poetry – ‘soul talk’ as she calls it – for over four decades,” Hayden said. “To her, poems are ‘carriers of dreams, knowledge and wisdom,’ and through them she tells an American story of tradition and loss, reckoning and myth-making. Her work powerfully connects us to the earth and the spiritual world with direct, inventive lyricism that helps us reimagine who we are,” Librarian of Congress Carla Hayden said.
Harjo said it is a surprise and an honor, which she shares with her Muscogee (Creek) ancestors.
“What excites me most is it honors our people, in particular, it honors the Muscogee people. It is a great honor and I wouldn’t be here without my people,” Harjo said.
Harjo gives back to the Native community by mentoring youth to express themselves through the arts.
“We have so many stories and I have seen such creative talent within our community. I have been working with the youth with mentorships and mentoring our Muscogee (Creek) youth who want to pursue arts or even practice them,” Harjo said. “You do not have to be an ‘artist’ to enjoy writing poetry or making songs or any of that. That is something all of us can do. Poetry is how we talk to each other, soul to soul.”
Muscogee (Creek) Nation Principal Chief James Floyd said the appointment of a Native American to poet laureate shows the influences of Native people and Harjo’s accomplishments.
“It is a recognition of the uniqueness and strength of our culture, as Indian people, particularly Muscogee People. For Joy, I think it speaks to her long Chief Floyd went onto say he believes Harjo being appointed is a positive message.
“As a message to all Indian people, it shows that one of the most prestigious and recognizable positions in the United States can be held by a woman, as well as a Native American,” Chief Floyd said.
Harjo, a resident of Tulsa, Okla., is the author of eight poetry books. She plays saxophone with her current band, Arrow Dynamics Band and she has appeared on the HBO television series “Def Poetry Jam.”
Harjo has won many awards both for her music and her poetry including: Native American Music Award (NAMMY) Best Female Artist of the Year, the American Indian Distinguished Achievement in the Arts Award, the Arrell Gibson Lifetime Achievement Award from the Oklahoma Center for the Book and others.
Harjo is the 23rd poet laureate since the position was created in 1936. Harjo assume her duties by opening the Library of Congress annual literary season, Sept. 19, with a reading of her work at the Coolidge Auditorium at Library of Congress in Washington, D.C.
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Media Contact
Amanda Rutland
O: (918) 732-7615
arutland@muscogeenation.comMuscogee (Creek) Nation welcomes California area citizens to annual gathering
Muscogee (Creek) Nation welcomes California area citizens to annual gathering
By: Amanda Rutland/MCNPR
ANAHEIM, Calif. — The Muscogee (Creek) Nation held the annual California At-Large Gathering June 8 at the Native American United Methodist Church in Anaheim. The event provided Muscogee (Creek) citizens living outside of the Nation’s boundaries the opportunity to have face-to-face interactions with tribal leadership and services.
Attendees listened to programs present information, but they also could visit with the programs about individual concerns at the departmental booths. Programs in attendance were: Citizenship, Election Board, Social Services, Realty Trust Services, Higher Education and more.
MCN Principal Chief James Floyd delivered a State of the Nation Address, which touched on economic development, the Council House restoration and the Three Ponds Elder Housing Community.
Chief Floyd said the Nation’s economic development continues to grow.
“The economy of the Nation needs to be diverse and it needs to be strong so that we can continue to provide programs to assist all of our citizens throughout the world,” Chief Floyd said.
The largest economic producer is the gaming division with the largest asset being River Spirit Casino and Resort. River Spirit is the largest hotel in Tulsa with 476 rooms. It is also the number one Uber destination in the state of Oklahoma.
Recently, River Spirit has been forced to close due to flooding from the Arkansas River. The floodwaters have since subsided and River Spirit is set to open July 1.
The Council House restoration was not limited to only the building. Period specific furniture had to be collected or reproduced.
“What you see there today meets the standards of National Historic Preservation because it is on the National Register of Historic places. It is an amazing place to go visit,” Chief Floyd said.
In the last quarter, over 650 people have visited the Council House and it has been utilized for National Council Sessions.
Chief Floyd shared plans for a visitors’ center across from the Council House.
“The Visitors’ Center will have more exhibits than we have [in the Council House],” Chief Floyd said.
MCN is shifting from cluster homes similar to duplexes to more independent type of living for elderly citizens.
“We have a project in Okmulgee called the Three Ponds project because there are three ponds on the property, which have been incorporated into the project,” Chief Floyd said.
The event would not have been as successful without the help of area citizens like Hope Craig of Valencia, Calif. Craig was raised in California and Arizona. Her grandparents came to the western U.S. in the 1950’s with the American Indian Relocation Program.
Craig began to get involved with the Muscogee (Creek) at-large community by attending at-large events and being passionate about Muscogee (Creek) people.
“Knowing how much the tribe has given to us, I thought it was my responsibility to see what I could give back to our tribe, most importantly our Muscogee people,” Craig said.
Craig said, for her, the biggest challenge of being an at-large citizen is maintaining a connection to MCN.
“I always felt like an outsider because I just felt no connection back to Oklahoma and it wasn’t until I went back home to Oklahoma that the connection was created,” Craig said.
Craig said she believes the preservation of culture and language is the main priority
“The best thing I can do to honor my ancestors is to make sure I am a vessel to fill in that gap; so, that no one feels like they are left behind,” Craig said.
Muscogee (Creek) Nation announces 2019 Living Legends honorees
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASEJune 5, 2019
Muscogee (Creek) Nation announces 2019 Living Legends honorees
OKMULGEE, Okla. — The Muscogee (Creek) Nation announced the 2019 Living Legends honorees. The Living Legends induction began in 2005 and the ceremony continues on as a one of the annual Mvskoke Festival events.
Living Legends honorees are chosen from the nominations submitted to the Living Legends Selection Committee. In order to be considered for Living Legends, nominees must be Muscogee (Creek) citizens, aged 55 years or older and have made significant contributions to the Nation on local, national or international levels. Their impact could be through a variety of capacities including traditional, professional, education and more.
The 2019 inductees are: Michael Flud of Okmulgee, Okla., former MCN Principal Chief Bill Sunday Fife of Dustin, Okla., Martha Jean Froman of Tulsa, Okla., Margaret Floyd of Eufaula, Okla., and Reverend Patrick Freeman of Tahlequah, Okla.
Michael Flud was nominated as an educator and tribal leader within MCN. Flud served on the first Muscogee (Creek) Nation Supreme Court in 1979. He was a member of the court having been re-nominated in 1998 to his fourth consecutive six-year term. He served five terms as Chief Justice of the Supreme Court.
Flud was instrumental in starting the College of the Muscogee Nation. He currently is the President of the Board of Regents for the College of the Muscogee Nation.
Bill Sunday Fife, Vietnam Veteran and former Muscogee (Creek) Nation Principal Chief, served six terms as Okfuskee District Representative to the Muscogee (Creek) National Council as well as Director of the Division of Tribal Affairs and as Secretary of the Nation.
He further served as Interim President and Executive Vice President for Bacone College in Muskogee, OK in addition to serving as Chairman of the Board of Trustees.
He also served on numerous boards and committees for national, tribal, state, and local organizations.
Martha Jean Froman has devoted over 34 years to Indian education serving as a teacher, counselor and administrator. She has made a positive impact on countless students and she continues to have strong relationships with many of her former students. She served as a counselor and administrator for the MCN operated Eufaula Indian Dormitory for 6 years.
During her years in Indian Education, she served on local and state boards and committees such as Indian Health Care Resource Center, Central Library, Indian Affairs Commission, Oklahoma State Education Committee on World Language, American Indian Institute with Oklahoma University and Oklahoma Council for Indian Education.
Margaret Floyd has taught hundreds of children and improved the quality of life for hundreds of Muscogee (Creek) citizens and their communities during her 91 years.
Granny Margaret as she is fondly called has volunteered as a foster grandparent for more than 30 years in McIntosh County.
She has been recognized with numerous awards including: the Ki Bois Community Action Foundation Granny of the Year Award in 2013, the Oklahoma Department of Human Services Volunteer and Community Partner Award in 2014 for mentoring over 150 children through 35,000 donated hours as a Foster Grandparent and other honors.
Floyd continues to support children with reading tutoring, study skills and through showing them love. She attends most school events and support to the students, teachers and coaches.
Reverend Patrick Freeman was the first Muscogee (Creek) citizen to attend a Methodist seminary. He has pastored Native American churches in Kansas and North Carolina where he was recognized for his ministry to the Eastern Band of Cherokees. He returned to Oklahoma to serve and minister in Tahlequah at DD Etchieson Memorial United Methodist Church.
Freeman’s ministry empowers Native people to build and support their faith communities. His churches are known for their generous outreach and he has inspired many other Native people to enter pastoral and ordained ministry. Freeman will soon celebrate 60 years as an ordained minister of the United Methodist Church.
The five inductees will be honored at the Living Legend Ceremony Thursday, June 20, 2019; at 11 a.m. at Faith Church in Glenpool, Okla. Lunch will be served directly after the ceremony.
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The final resolution urged the state of Oklahoma to remove the cap on Itemized deductions for gaming losses. The state passed a law creating an overall cap of $17,000 on deductions from state income taxes, which includes deducting gaming losses. This deters gaming players and negatively affects tribal gaming in Oklahoma therefore the ITC “supports the continuation of the federal standard that calculates taxable income by deducting total gaming losses from total winnings,” urging the state to pass and sign legislation removing the cap and include retroactive legislation so casino players can accurately record their income.
According to the report, in 2017, MCN provided more than $12 million to stateand local governments, including nearly $34,000 to school districts in Creek, Muskogee, Okfuskee and Okmulgee counties. Combined with the education portion of gaming exclusivity fees, the report estimates that $8.1 million in education funding was provided to districts within Oklahoma. Economic Impact Group prepared the report after collecting and analyzing data provided by the Muscogee (Creek) Nation.
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