The Muscogee Nation

Category: Article

  • 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.com

    Hofmeister 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.

    ###

  • 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.com

    TRIBAL 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

     

     

    -###-

     

    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.com

     

    Muscogee (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.

    ###

  • 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.com

    Muscogee (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

    ###

  • Muscogee (Creek) Nation releases statement regarding U.S. Supreme Court decision in Murphy case

    For Immediate Release
    June 27, 2019

    Media Contact
    Amanda Rutland
    O: 918.732.7615
    arutland@muscogeenation.com

    Muscogee (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.

    ###

  • New report shows Muscogee (Creek) Nation had $866 million economic impact on Oklahoma economy

    FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
    June 26, 2019

    Contact: Amanda Rutland
    918.732.7615
    ARutland@muscogeenation.com

    New 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.

    ###

  • 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, 2019

    Muscogee (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.

    ###

    Media Contact
    Amanda Rutland
    O: (918) 732-7615
    arutland@muscogeenation.com

  • Principal Chief Floyd announces decision to not seek re-election

     

    Press Release PDF

    Citizen Letter PDF

     

  • Muscogee (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 RELEASE

    June 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.

    ###

  • Muscogee (Creek) Nation Principal Chief Floyd revokes Oklahoma City Muscogee (Creek) Association community charter

    For immediate release

    June 5, 2019

     

    Muscogee (Creek) Nation Principal Chief Floyd revokes Oklahoma City Muscogee (Creek) Association community charter

    OKMULGEE, Okla. — Muscogee (Creek) Nation Principal Chief James Floyd revoked the Oklahoma City Muscogee (Creek) Association (OCMA) community charter effective June 3.

    According to MCN Code Title 11, §1-101, the principal chief has the exclusive right to grant charts to qualified MCN Indian communities. Chartered communities that fail to comply with tribal law are subject to having their Tribal charters revoked and all of their financial resources and assets confiscated by the MCN tribal government.

    OCMA has failed to provide annual audits for fiscal years 2018 and 2019, which are required by Title 11, MCNCA §6-303.

    The MCN Executive Office released a proclamation stating, “Oklahoma City Muscogee (Creek) Association has engaged in gross mismanagement of tribal funds with egregious financial accounting and failing to meet basic financial accounting standards.”

    Chief Floyd said it is unfortunate that such measures had to be taken.

    “It is unfortunate that this severe action must be taken to correct problems that community leaders are trained to prevent. We have worked with the community and extended time for them in order to comply with required accountability,” Chief Floyd said. “Our audit of their records identified significant non-compliance, which required this severe action.”

    MCN Community Research and Development shall serve as OCMA acting director and will control daily operations including employment and building rentals.

    Controller Clay Darnell is authorized to confiscate and manage all financial resources including: accounts, bank records, computers, and all other documents related to OCMA, Creative Circles Promotions, LLC and Creative Circle Gift Shop and Gallery, LLC.

    Chief Floyd expressed the need for services to continue.

    “We must do the right thing and will do everything possible to continue services and events for community members,” Chief Floyd said.

    The charter revocation will remain in effect until further notice.

    ###

    Proclamation of Action Declaring a National Emergency in the Oklahoma City Muscogee (Creek) Association

  • Muscogee (Creek) Nation sues to restore burial site desecrated by Poarch casino

    For Immediate Release
    June 5, 2019

    Muscogee (Creek) Nation sues to restore burial site desecrated by Poarch casino

    Montgomery, Ala.—The Muscogee (Creek) Nation today filed a federal lawsuit demanding the Poarch Band of Creek Indians immediately return the sacred site known as Hickory Ground to its condition prior to the construction of the Wetumpka, Ala. casino resort, which desecrated the human remains of scores of Muscogee (Creek) ancestors.

    “The remains and cultural objects must be put back at peace in their original resting ground,” said Mekko George Thompson, who has served as the traditional Chief of the Hickory Ground Tribal Town for more than four decades. “Our ancestors’ remains have been wrenched from their final resting places and removed. We’re not opposed to development, but a burial ground is no place for a casino.”

    The Poarch Band acquired the Hickory Ground site in 1980 by promising to preserve the site, and the U.S. District Court suit asserts that the subsequent desecration and construction were executed unlawfully by Poarch and numerous federal defendants.

    The Muscogee (Creek) Nation is demanding restoration of the original site, and Mekko Thompson is seeking monetary damages for the intentional infliction of emotional distress.

    “We entrusted the Poarch Band to maintain that ground in perpetuity, because that is what they promised,” said Muscogee (Creek) Nation Principal Chief James Floyd. “Not only did they not do that, they desecrated an extremely important cultural, historical and archaeological site, unearthing remains and sacred objects. They’ve shown no remorse.”

    The suit maintains the Poarch Band and the federal government violated federal laws including the Native American Graves Protection and Repatriation Act, the National Historic Preservation Act, the Religious Freedom Restoration Act, and the Indian Reorganization Act, among others.

    The action expands upon a suit first filed in 2012 that was paused while both sides explored a settlement.

    Located in Wetumpka, Ala., the 33-acre Hickory Ground is one of the most historically and spiritually important sites to the Muscogee (Creek) Nation. The sacred site was the tribe’s capital before the Muscogee (Creek) were forcibly relocated in the 1830s to what is now Oklahoma on the infamous Trail of Tears. Hickory Ground is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

    Hickory Ground was also critical to the very formation of the United States. When international nations questioned the sovereignty of the newly born United States, President George Washington lent legitimacy to the nascent country by signing treaties with Indian Nations, whose sovereignty had previously been affirmed through treaties with France, Spain, and England.
    Thus, in 1790, nearly two centuries before Poarch was recognized as a tribe, President Washington executed a treaty with the Muscogee (Creek) Nation. The head of the Muscogee treaty delegation was from Hickory Ground. Poarch not only desecrated a sacred site of the Muscogee, they desecrated the wellspring of Muscogee leaders who legitimized the sovereignty of the United States.

    Despite its desecration by the Poarch, Hickory Ground remains an integral part of Muscogee (Creek) religious and ceremonial life. In the Muscogee (Creek) religion, it is considered sacrilegious to disturb the bodies of ancestors or desecrate ceremonial grounds. Restoration of the site is critical to protect ancestral graves from ongoing desecration. Hickory Ground is a place where Muscogee (Creek) cultural ceremonies were practiced for more than a thousand years. Hundreds of their ancestors were buried there.

    The Muscogee (Creek) Nation is one of the largest tribes in the United States, with more than 87,000 tribal citizens.

    The Poarch Band, which numbers just over 3,000, claims to be composed of Creek descendants who stayed in Alabama, assimilating with non-Indians during the forced removal of southeastern tribes on the Trail of Tears. The group began petitioning for federal recognition at a time when talk of Indian gaming was beginning, and received it in 1984.

    “No amount of money is worth betraying our faith and disrespecting our ancestors. That land is sacred ground, and it needs to be returned to its sacred condition,” Mekko Thompson said. “We are fighting for that—for our elders, for our tribal members today, and future generations. This is for all of us.”

     

    # # #

    Additional Information and Documents

    Media Tips

    Background information

    Chronology

     The Motion for Leave to file the second amended complaint

    The second amended complaint
    >

    Contact:
    Amanda Rutland
    Public Relations
    arutland@muscogeenation.com
    T 918.732.7615 |C 918.752.7302

  • Chief Floyd provides status update on Impact to communities and properties

     Thursday, May 30, 2019

    To:       Citizens of the Muscogee (Creek) Nation

    From:   Principal Chief James Floyd

    Re:      Status update on Impact to communities and properties

     

    Dear Citizens,

    There are moments in times like this that I have the opportunity to witness neighbors helping neighbors and our employees going above and beyond during long hours to help lessen this ongoing crisis.

    I want to take a moment to express my pride and appreciation for all that each of you have done to step up and lessen the burden on others impacted by the severe weather and flood issues. I know our Nation’s leadership joins me in sharing our heartfelt thank you for all that you have done and will continue to do in the coming weeks.

    This latest round of severe weather this week impacted citizens throughout our Nation, as well as left damage to several of our tribal-owned properties. The responsiveness from our team at the Tribal headquarters and our business partners has been remarkable. I would especially like to recognize the staff of our Arbor Care program for storm damage clean-up and the Emergency Management Water Rescue Team that worked for five days alongside emergency crews in Wagoner County. Our Emergency Manager Coordinator continues to assist the Wagoner County Emergency Operations Center overseeing the operations of Emergency Command Center. I would, also, like to thank Lighthorse Tribal Police for the quick responsiveness in checking our tribal properties.

    If outstanding needs remain, please do not hesitate to contact our teams to see how we can be of assistance. You may contact Sylvia Tulsa, Office of Risk Management at (918) 732-7795.

    The RiverWalk in Jenks remains open. The Citizenship office remains open to serve citizens. The restaurants, retail and Flying Tee are exceeding expectations with guests seeking a view of the Arkansas River. The trail in front of RiverWalk is closed for safety precautions. The parking lot potentially could be impacted by the water, but the buildings remain dry.

    The River Spirit Casino Resort management team, operations and security crews continue to work incessantly to protect the Resort from the relentless water released by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers from the Keystone Dam.

    As of Wednesday, May 29, the Corps announced that it can begin reducing the current 275,000 cubic feet per second. The last flood occurrence was in 1986 and the level of release has slowed, which assists in clean up and re-opening.

    I had the opportunity to tour River Spirit with Gov. Kevin Stitt and his team to showcase the Steps being taken to protect the Resort and to prepare to re-open as soon as the water recedes. I appreciate the Governor’s interest and time to learn more about the $169 million impact the Resort has on the economy, as well as the 1,800 area employees that depend on the Resort for their livelihood. I am actively seeking his support for future Federal Disaster Relief funds to help offset the cost of the operation to protect the Resort from additional damage, as well as the cost to clean and restore the areas impacted by the water.

    Currently, we estimate the Resort will remain closed through the month of June assuming the water levels diminish as reported by the Corps. We will update this information after a total assessment of the property. The first priority is bringing the power back online as the utilities for the property are contained in underground vaults. Additionally, for the safety of guests and employees, the parking structures and asphalt must be cleaned and repaired prior to reopening.

    Leadership at River Spirit Casino Resort is attempting to invalidate false information spreading in the community via social media channels and comments online regarding the structural integrity of the Resort. We hope each of you can assist in helping to ensure correct information reaches our citizens and public:

    Construction of the Resort hotel tower and expanded gaming and restaurants were built utilizing 675 heavily reinforced concrete piers, eight feet in diameter that are 80 to 87 feet below the ground and socketed to the bedrock at an elevation level of 588. Additionally, the Resort complex is further protected from land erosion due to the one-inch thick, solid steel sheet piling surrounding the river side of the property from the hotel tower to the theater. The sheet piling begins at the elevation level of 614 and protects the land all the way to the bedrock elevation level of 588.

    As designed, there is no possibility the Resort complex can be structurally damaged by the water release. External construction engineers have been on site to review and develop a report regarding the structural integrity of the buildings and land bridges.

    I want to reassure the citizens and public that River Spirit, including the 26-story hotel, Margaritaville and Ruth’s Chris restaurants, along with both our gaming floors remain unaffected by the water surrounding our property. Some of the Resort amenities, such as the ground level pool, spa and indoor/outdoor restaurant may be impacted longer for clean-up and repairs.

    I hope all citizens of the Nation join me in showing pride for the beautiful Resort we built on our historic land on the banks of the Arkansas River. The water will recede and the sun will soon bless our land again.

     

  • Muscogee (Creek) Nation Dignitaries, Staff Welcome New Mexico Area Citizens to Learn About Available Services

    FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

    May 20, 2019

    Muscogee (Creek) Nation Dignitaries, Staff Welcome New Mexico Area Citizens to Learn About Available Services

    SANTA FE, N.M. – The Muscogee (Creek) Nation At-Large Citizen’s Office held the 4th Annual New Mexico Quarterly Outreach Gathering May 11, at the Institute of American Indian Arts in Santa Fe, New Mexico.

    MCN Principal Chief James R. Floyd, Second Chief Louis A. Hicks and the MCN New Mexico At-Large community welcomed citizens to fellowship while learning about the Nation’s programs and services.

    Muscogee (Creek) citizen and New Mexico resident, Kenneth Johnson, said this year’s gathering was a success with attendees coming from Colorado, Arizona, Texas and of course, New Mexico.

    “We had a good response from our community but we really appreciate all the Okies that came down I-40 one more time to join us for some green chile chicken enchiladas,” Johnson said.

    Principal Chief Floyd also spoke to citizens during the At-Large event and shared the Nation’s latest successful milestones in the U.S. Congress including the amendments cited in S. 943, the Johnson-O’Malley Supplemental Indian Education Program Modernization Act and H.R. 2606, the Stigler Act Amendments of 2018.

    S. 943 now holds the Bureau of Indian Education and the U.S. Department of Interior responsible for carrying out the new legislation, which includes conducting an annual student count in order to award more accurate monetary contract amounts based on the number of Native American students served.

    While H.R. 2606 now allows the law ensure that citizens of the Five Civilized Tribes in Oklahoma are treated the same as citizens of all other U.S. federally-recognized tribes, who under federal law were never governed to meet any arbitrary blood quantum requirement to keep ancestral land in restricted fee status when it comes to land in trust status.

    The event allowed the out-of-state citizens to ask questions regarding recent legislation, as well as inquire about available MCN services.

    There were presentations from members of the MCN Election Board, who were on-site registration for citizens as Absentee Voters by the Election Board, as well as the MCN Office of Citizenship, who were available for citizens to apply for the Enhanced Tribal Card.

    Other MCN services available during the gathering included Realty & Trust Services, Higher Education, Language, Social Services, Mvskoke Media, Cultural Preservation and Creek Tourism among other programs.

    The At-Large Citizens’ Office was created to assist with tribal services’ outreach, as well as promote ongoing relations with citizens, specifically with those who live outside of the Nation’s juridiction.

    The Nation’s At-Large Citizens’ Office consists of two parts – At-Large: In-State and At-Large: Out of State, which assists with providing program information specific to the citizens’ needs, depending on where they reside.

    The At-Large Tribal Liaison who coordinates oversees both departmental entities with the various MCN programs in order to assist the citizens living outside the Nation’s boundaries, who otherwise may be less informed of all the services available to them.

    In addition to putting out-of-state citizens in touch with the appropriate programs and point of contacts, the outreach efforts also consist of hosting events in various locations, both in and out of state.

    Each outreach event provides an opportunity for citizens in the area to learn more about available services in person and speak with the knowledgeable staff members of each program.

    The MCN At-Large Citizen Services Guide is also a resource for citizens to use as a reference and lists each program and the summarized details such as eligibility, contacts, deadlines and updates.

    The MCN At-Large Citizen Services Guide is available online, to view or as a PDF download, which can be found on the Nation’s website at: //www.muscogeenation.com/out-of-state-at-large/

    For more information on upcoming At-Large Quarterly Outreach events or other inquiries, contact the At-Large Citizens’ Office at 918-732-7752.

     ###

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

                                                                                                   

  • Muscogee (Creek) Nation Department of Health (MCNDH) issues measles statement

    Muscogee (Creek) Nation Department of Health (MCNDH) issues measles statement

    OKMULGEE, Okla. — The Oklahoma State Department of Health has confirmed the first case of measles since May 2018 at Saint Francis – Glenpool Emergency Room. The case was confirmed on May 15, 2019.

    The Muscogee (Creek) Nation Department of Health (MCNDH) met this morning to discuss and review internal protocols.

    “At this time, Muscogee (Creek) Nation is on standby and prepared to provide all necessary services in the event a case of measles presents to one of our facilities,” Chief Medical Officer Dr. Billy Beets said.

    MCNDH will continue to partner with the Oklahoma State Department of Health and local county health departments to ensure the safety of the community.

    MCNDH will provide updates should the situation develop.

  • Chaudhuri named Muscogee (Creek) Nation Ambassador

    For immediate release

    May 7, 2019

    Chaudhuri named Muscogee (Creek) Nation Ambassador              

    OKMULGEE, Okla. — The Muscogee (Creek) Nation has named citizen Jonodev Chaudhuri as the Ambassador for the Nation. The MCN Ambassador will strengthen the Nation’s sovereignty and allow for a sustained MCN presence in Washington, D.C.

    The Ambassador position was created to uphold the historic sovereign-to-sovereign relationship between MCN and the U.S. The Ambassador will take part in federal executive and congressional discussions that affect MCN interests. It is difficult for MCN leadership to attend many of the meetings at the U.S. Capitol while still attending to the day-to-day operations of the Nation.

    “Now, more than ever, it is very important for us to have a voice in D.C. The Nation needed an official onsite advocate,” MCN Principal Chief James Floyd said.

    This contractual position was created by National Council legislation, NCA 18-200. The Act sets the first term to expire Dec. 31 of this year and following terms will align with the term of the elected Principal Chief.

    The Ambassador is named by the Principal Chief and will work with both the Executive and Legislative Branches. The Ambassador will represent one unified tribal voice and communicate the will of the leadership.

    This position does not allow for decisions to be made independently. The Ambassador will be a diplomat of the MCN government, as opposed to serving as a lobbyist or an attorney.

    Although this position was recently created, historically MCN has sent diplomats to Washington, D.C., and as such, the creation of the position, as well as the naming of a capable and trusted citizen to serve as Ambassador, is not only a critical exercise of MCN sovereignty, but one that is in keeping with past MCN practices.

    “This is nothing new for us; even before Oklahoma statehood Chitto Harjo lobbied Congress to address allotment of communal lands,” Chief Floyd said.

    A handful of forward-looking Tribal Nations have established similar diplomatic positions in recent decades, successfully enhancing their efforts to engage in long-term planning and advocacy. MCN looks to build on these models to vigorously exercise its sovereign diplomacy.

    Chaudhuri knows his way around D.C. He has served as National Indian Gaming Commission Chairman since 2013, a position nominated by the President and confirmed by the U.S. Senate.

    In a media release, Chaudhuri reflected on his time with NIGC.

    “It has been the honor of my professional life to serve at the NIGC.” Chaudhuri said. “During the five and a

    half years I have served as Chairman or acting Chair, the Agency has not only upheld its regulatory responsibilities by adhering to the letter of the law in implementing Indian Gaming Regulatory Act (IGRA), but we have done so in a manner that is true to the spirit and explicit purpose of the law: to promote tribal economic development, self-sufficiency, and strong tribal governments.”

    Prior to serving as Chairman of the NIGC, he served as U.S. Department of the Interior Senior Counselor to the Assistant Secretary of Indian Affairs.

    Chaudhuri recently announced his departure from NIGC and he will begin serving as Ambassador May 16, 2019.

    Chaudhuri has maintained a strong relationship with MCN throughout both his personal and professional lives. His late mother, Jean (Hill) Chaudhuri, was an example of a strong Muscogee woman and leader. She was very active during her lifetime in Creek cultural affairs and national Native American advocacy.

    Before she passed away, she co-wrote with Chaudhuri’s father, Joy, the book “A Sacred Path: The Way of the Muscogee Creeks.” Chaudhuri is of the Bear Clan and is an active member of Nuyaka Ceremonial Ground. His family church is Green Leaf Baptist in Okemah, Okla.

    Chaudhuri has served as a MCN Supreme Court Judge from 2006-2012 and recently has served the Nation in other capacities. He has spent years advocating for tribal sovereignty as a practicing Indian law attorney.

    Due to the structure of the ambassador position, Chaudhuri will resume practicing Indian law outside the scope of the ambassadorship. This will allow him to stay up-to-date on the latest issues facing Indian Country adding valuable insight to his experience.

    “I look forward to advancing critical policy and helping to implement long-term strategic planning to ensure that MCN preserves and enhances its role as a leader in Indian Country,” Chaudhuri stated. “I am extraordinarily humbled and honored to serve my Nation, and I will do so to the absolute best of my abilities.”

     

    ###

  • Muscogee (Creek) Nation Head Start Programs Compete in Mvskoke Language Bowl

    FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

    April 30, 2019

     

    Muscogee (Creek) Nation Head Start Programs Compete in Mvskoke Language Bowl

     OKMULGEE, Okla. – On Friday, April 26, several of the Muscogee (Creek) Nation Head Start Programs brought teams of students to compete in the Head Start Language Bowl in Okmulgee, Okla.

    The MCN Head Start Program partnered with the Mvskoke Language Program staff to coordinate the competition, which tested the Muscogee (Creek) students’ knowledge of the Mvskoke language.

    Three years ago, the Mvskoke Language Program began sending Language Instructors to the Head Start Programs to teach basic Muscogee (Creek) words and phrases to the three to five-year old students.

    This year’s Language Bowl had multiple teams participating from the Eufaula, Tulsa, Wetumka, Okmulgee, Checotah and Okemah Head Start Programs.

    The 1st place winner in the Language Bowl was Tulsa Team #1 from the Tulsa Head Start, followed by the 2nd place winning team from the Okemah Head Start.

    MCN Head Start Program Family Service Worker Marcus Jeffrey said the Language Bowl is a positive experience for the students.

    “This is good for the Nation and it’s a good opportunity for Creek children to learn their culture,” Jeffrey said. “It’s an event where the children can actually learn the Creek language and teach their children one day. So it’s a good learning tool and atmosphere for them and for their parents, as well.”

    ###

  • Muscogee (Creek) Nation Sees Successful Start for Fountainhead Creek Golf Course Reopening

    FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
    April 22, 2019

     

    Muscogee (Creek) Nation Sees Successful Start for Fountainhead Creek Golf Course Reopening

    CHECOTAH, Okla. – Just six months after the Fountainhead Creek Golf Course Ribbon Cutting Ceremony, the Lake Eufaula venture is proving successful for the Muscogee (Creek) Nation.

    The Nation celebrated the reopening of the Fountainhead Creek Golf Course and its updated features, which included new greens, golf carts and a new roof among other things.

    Following the ribbon cutting Oct. 1, 2018, the golf course has been the host of several notable golf tournaments, such as the Heartland Conference and the Lake Eufaula Classic.

    Fountainhead General Manager Jimmy Saenz said they are pleased to be hosting tournaments and building partnerships with local schools.

    Fountainhead has hosted tournaments for Eufaula and Oktaha Public Schools and will finish the month of April by hosting several Oklahoma Secondary School Activities Association Golf tournaments.

    The OSSAA tournaments include the Class 2A Girls and Boys Qualifiers, as well as the Class 3A Girls and Boys Regional.

    Aside from hosting events, the 18-hole, par-72 course not only offers a driving range, putting green and golf shop, but also offers private and group golf lessons.

    Saenz said the facility is unique in that the standard golf course membership fees aren’t offered to visitors, but instead they offer Golf Passes, which are more like packages with rounds.

    Saenz said they will also be launching new programs soon, such as the Teaching Academy that will offer women and youth golf clinics.

    Beginning Summer 2019, the facility will host at least eight Junior Summer Camps to area students.

    Saenz said Fountainhead will continue to come up with new ideas and programs that makes the course unique and standout to the visitors.

    “I think a lot of the things that we’re doing out here, we’re attracting some new eyes for sure,” Saenz said. “Just getting people to realize that everybody’s welcome and we want everybody here. So, as long as we continue to make small changes that are noticeable then people will remember that.”

    The Fountainhead Creek Golf Course is located at 112469 Hwy. 150 Checotah, OK 74426.

    For more information and pricing, visit the Fountainhead website at: www.fountainheadgolf.com or call 918-689-3209.

    ###

  • Muscogee (Creek) Nation included in Presidential Task Force on Protecting Native American Children in the Indian Health Service System

    (Photo courtesy of: Lennea Montandon, Public Affairs Officer, U.S. Attorney’s Office)

    Muscogee (Creek) Nation included in Presidential Task Force on Protecting Native American Children in the Indian Health Service System

    OKMULGEE, Okla. — The Presidential Task Force on Protecting Native American Children in the Indian Health Service System (Task Force) held its first meeting April 4, at the U.S. Attorney’s Office in Tulsa, Okla.  The task force is focused on protecting Native American children from sexual abuse at the hands of Indian Health Service healthcare providers.

    Muscogee (Creek) Nation Principal Chief James Floyd attended the first meeting, which outlined mission, expectations and goals, including seeking the perspective of Native Americans on the IHS system.

    Photo courtesy of: Lennea Montandon, Public Affairs Office, U.S. Attorney’s Office

    Chief Floyd expressed support for the initiative and commitment to being involved for the well being of Muscogee (Creek) children.

    “I am pleased that the White House has elevated the urgency of protecting American Indian children cared for under the Indian Health Service to the highest level possible,” Floyd said. “I will continue to follow the progress of the task force and commit to being available to advise the task force at every opportunity to ensure that systems and programs are in place for accountability in healthcare delivery to our children.”

    Heading up the Task Force as co-chair is Choctaw Nation citizen and U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of Oklahoma Trent Shores.

    “We have the opportunity to do good work for a righteous cause,” Shores said. “Protecting Native American children who enter the Indian Health Service system is a common sense mission. It’s also one, which this Task Force will approach, with a great sense of purpose and urgency.”

    The Task Force discussed issues including: recruitment and retention of healthcare providers, continuing education requirements and reporting protocols.

    Future meetings are scheduled in South Dakota and Montana.

    ###