Category: Article
MCN to hold grand opening of newly-renovated 1878 Creek Nation Council House on Nov. 17
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Muscogee (Creek) Nation to Hold Grand Opening of Newly-Renovated 1878 Creek Nation Council House on Nov. 17
WHAT: The Muscogee (Creek) Nation’s Cultural Center & Archives Department invites the public to attend the Grand Opening of the Creek Nation Council House in its original 1878 sandstone structure at the center of the historic Okmulgee town square in Okmulgee, Okla.
The Nation began the renovations in March 2017 with an appropriation from the Muscogee (Creek) National Council, which funded 60 percent of the renovation costs and the remaining 40 percent funded through Historic Tax Credits.
Dating back to forced removal of Muscogee people from their Southeastern homelands, the Nov. 17 Grand Opening will be a momentous day for the tribe as it continues to preserve the Mvskoke culture and acknowledge the strength of the Mvskoke people throughout history.
From losing possession of the Council House to the U.S. Department of Interior in 1906; then purchasing the building and regaining ownership from the City of Okmulgee in 2010; to acquiring its collections back into possession in 2013; the Nation is pleased to begin sharing its story as the Council House opens permanently, Tuesday through Saturday 10 a.m. to 1:30 p.m, to the public.
WHO: Muscogee (Creek) citizens, community members and tribal dignitaries will join MCN Principal Chief James R. Floyd and Second Chief Louis Hicks for the Grand Opening ceremony and dedication prayer.
After the dedication ceremony and prayer, those in attendance will have the opportunity to tour the Council House and view the exhibits displayed throughout.
WHEN: The day will begin with a historic meeting as the Council House will hold the Muscogee (Creek) National Council General Session at 10 a.m. Saturday, Nov. 17, directly followed by the Grand Opening celebration.
WHERE: The Creek Nation Council House is located at 100 W. 6th Street Okmulgee, OK 74447.
A livestream of the General Session meeting and Grand Opening ceremony will be available to view on MCN’s YouTube channel: The Muscogee (Creek) Nation Public Relations.
For more information, contact the MCN Cultural Center & Archives office at 918-549-2434.
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Muscogee (Creek) Citizen’s wish of becoming Lighthorse Police Officer granted
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Nov. 13, 2018
All About the People: Muscogee (Creek) Citizen’s Wish of Becoming Lighthorse Police Officer was Granted with Help of MCN Lighthorse Department, Make-A-Wish Foundation
OKMULGEE, Okla. – On Nov. 7, Muscogee (Creek) Nation had the privilege to take part in turning one citizen’s dream into a realty as 14-year-old Joshua Dubois became the newest MCN Lighthorse Police Officer for the day.
The MCN Lighthorse Police Department worked closely with the national non-profit corporation, the Make-A-Wish Foundation, to prepare for Joshua’s special Wish Day at the MCN Tribal Complex.
The Make-A-Wish Foundation’s primary objective is granting the wishes of children with critical illnesses and leaving behind a positive impact on their lives long after their wish is granted.
At a young age, Joshua was diagnosed with Cerebral Palsy, a neurological disorder caused by a non-progressive brain injury or malformation that occurs during brain development either before, during or immediately after birth, according to the Cerebral Palsy Foundation website.
Joshua’s wish to serve the Nation as a Lighthorseman for the day began with a big welcome from MCN Principal Chief James R. Floyd, Second Chief Louis Hicks and other tribal dignitaries before he met with MCN Human Resources to become an employee and then to the police department for his uniform fitting.
Once in uniform, Joshua was officially sworn in by MCN Tribal Court Judge Greg Bigler as an official Tribal Lighthorse Officer. After taking his oath, Joshua’s older brother, Kenny, did the honors of pinning on his badge for the first time.
Before Joshua took on his new duties, he had to complete extensive police training that included K9 handling, perfecting handcuffing techniques and actually being the first Lighthorseman to train with MILO, a virtual reality system that trains in firearms.
While Joshua took a lunch break with friends and family and his fellow Lighthorsemen, a call came in of a robbery taking place at the College of the Muscogee Nation bookstore.
Joshua experienced his first call to duty and was able to apprehend the robber, complete the investigation and take the suspect on to jail at the Okmulgee County Criminal Justice Authority.
Chief Floyd, MCN Lighthorse Police Chief Robert Hawkins and Deputy Chief Daniel Wind presented Joshua with a certificate recognizing the excellent work he put in.
“He did excellent this morning,” Hawkins said. “He’s a very smart kid and picks up on things quickly. He will be dedicated when he’s given the opportunity when he’s grown to be a part of real time law enforcement.”
Joshua’s family and friends were just as happy to witness his wish come true for the day.
“This is indescribable; I can’t even begin to tell you all how much this means to Josh and to us all,” Joshua’s grandmother, Janet Watkins, said. “This is something we are going to remember the rest of our lives and to see Josh this happy when his life is filled with so much pain; it just makes me feel good and makes me really appreciate people like Creek Nation, Lighthorse and Make-A-Wish Foundation. This is a dream come true for Josh.”
Joshua’s Wish Day is a prime example of the opportunities the Nation looks forward to being a part of because it’s all about the people.
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Principal Chief Provides Statement Recognizing 40th Anniversary of Enactment of Federal Indian Child Welfare Act
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Nov. 8, 2018
Muscogee (Creek) Nation Principal Chief Provides Statement Recognizing 40th Anniversary of Enactment of Federal Indian Child Welfare Act
OKMULGEE, Okla. – On behalf of the Muscogee (Creek) Nation, Principal Chief James R. Floyd prepared the following statement recognizing the 40th Anniversary of the Federal Indian Child Welfare Act (ICWA).
“Nov. 8, 2018 marks the 40th anniversary of the enactment of the Federal Indian Child Welfare Act (ICWA). The protections put in place by this Federal Act require each state to notify tribes of their ancestral children being removed from the care of their parent or guardian; obligation to provide expert witness testimony proving no cultural biases in the removal; requirement to place Indian children with relatives, within their own tribe or other Tribal Nations; and provide active efforts prior to the removal of Indian children from their homes and support the reunification of the Indian family. Within the last year, the Muscogee (Creek) Nation Children & Family Services Administration has provided services to more than 325 Muscogee (Creek) children who were in the custody of the Oklahoma Department of Human Services. This Act works to ensure every effort was made in placing those 325 children with relatives, tribal members or at the very least, members of other federally-recognized tribes.
The strength of our Nation relies on the safety and well-being of our tribal citizens, especially our children. Indian children continue to be removed from their homes for abuse and neglect at an overwhelming rate. Statistics show, in the State of Oklahoma, one in three children placed in foster care are Indian children.
In 1978, Congress found that ‘… Congress, through statutes, treaties, and the general course of dealing with Indian Tribes, has assumed the responsibility for the protection and preservation of Indian Tribes, and their resources; and that there is no resource that is more vital to the continued existence and integrity of Indian Tribes, than their children and that the U.S. has a direct interest, as trustee, in protecting Indian children who are members of or are eligible for membership in an Indian Tribe; and that an alarmingly high percentage of Indian families are broken up by the removal, often unwarranted, of their children from them by non-tribal public and private agencies and that an alarmingly high percentage of such children are placed in non-Indian foster and adoptive homes and institutions.’
The Muscogee (Creek) Nation stands in continued support of the ICWA enactment and the regulations, which protect and preserve our Mvskoke culture and promote the welfare of our children and families.”
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All About the People: Muscogee (Creek) Nation Tobacco Prevention Program Holds the Great American Smokeout Event
For Immediate Release
Nov. 5, 2018
All About the People: Muscogee (Creek) Nation Tobacco Prevention Program Holds the Great American Smokeout Event
OKMULGEE, Okla. – As the single most preventable cause of disease and premature death in the U.S., commercial tobacco use prevention remains at the forefront throughout the country. Each year, on the third Thursday of November, the American Cancer Society’s Great American Smokeout is recognized among health care providers, community groups and other entities as a day of to bring awareness to the effects of tobacco use and offer tools to quit.
Muscogee (Creek) Nation Tobacco Prevention Program has participated in the annual event by inviting anyone and everyone to challenge themselves to go “cold turkey” and quit smoking for one day, in hopes that one day turns into forever.
On Nov. 15, MCN Tobacco Prevention will participate in GASO by hosting this year’s event dubbed the “Cold Turkey Challenge” with a walk, lunch, informational booths and raffle drawings with prizes that include turkeys for the holidays.
MCN Tobacco Prevention Program Manager Sprint Williams said the event is important for not only smokers to attend, but also non-smokers who can show up as a sponsor to support a friend who is trying to quit.
“We have found that if you have a friend or somebody there by your side to try to help you, then it’s easier for somebody to quit,” Williams said. “So that’s why we encourage the non-smoker to come out and support for that day. Basically, for that one day you’re helping a friend stop smoking and that one day may turn into two and then two weeks.”
Williams said the idea of the campaign is that if one quits smoking for even a week, then the hard part is over because it takes an average of seven attempts before a smoker actually quits.
Through tribal funds and the state-funded grant, M-Power, the program is able to advocate for smoke-free environments and bring awareness and tools to help citizens and communities quit smoking and improve their health.
According to the American Cancer Society, quitting smoking at any age improves health immediately and over the long term.
MCN Tobacco Prevention participates in other partnerships and programs to assist in quitting including the Baby and Me – Tobacco Free Program that assists pregnant women to quit smoking and continue after child birth.
Other program efforts include outreach and presentations to youth in the communities by visiting schools and meeting with youth programs as a way to provide statistics and facts and the dangers of tobacco use.
“We try to stay as connected with the youth as we can,” Williams said. “With all the risk and the statistics, it’s just one of those things that the more you know, the better. So, we want to give even the kids a lot of that knowledge too.”
However, Williams said between the program’s four staff members, a majority of their advocacy is partnering with the Oklahoma Health Department and other entities to implement policies changes to tobacco control.
“We partner with the state and try to get some better policies set in place things such as workplaces; making those smoke free,” Williams said. “Basically, we try to work on and improve tobacco control policies for not only the tribe but the state, as well.”
For example, the program was able to update policy, which will make the upcoming grand opening of the Historic Council House a smoke-free event. Williams said they hope the Nov. 17 grand opening will be the start of many smoke-free areas.
Providing the tools and support to citizens and community members is the main objective of the MCN Tobacco Prevention Program, as it is just another outlet citizens and non-citizens are able utilize as needed because it’s all about the people.
The program’s GASO event Nov. 15 will have information tables set up from 9:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. on the MCN Tribal Complex. Lunch and door prizes will also be part of the day’s activities.
The MCN Tobacco Prevention Program is located at 1201 S. Belmont St. Suite 105 Okmulgee, OK 74447. For more information and to sign up for the GASO event, contact the program at 918-756-6231.
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Five Muscogee (Creek) Citizens Honored for Native American 40 Under 40
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Nov. 2, 2018
Five Muscogee (Creek) Citizens Honored for “Native American 40 Under 40”
TULSA, Okla. – Five Muscogee (Creek) citizens represented the Nation as 2018 recipients of the National Center for American Indian Enterprise Development “Native American 40 Under 40” award during the Oct. 30 ceremony at River Spirit Casino Resort, which recognized this year’s honorees.
This year’s awards gala, “Impacting Generations: Honoring a Decade of Exceptional Service and Leadership”, commemorated the National Center’s 10th year of the awards, which honors 40 Native Americans under the age of 40 who have made a significant impact on their communities through their role in the business profession.
The awards ceremony was part of the National Center’s Native Edge Institute training on procurement that brought past and present Native American 40 Under 40 honorees together for networking, professional development and mentorship opportunities.
The 40 businessmen and women were selected for their dedication and devotion in work such as healthcare, tribal government, non-profit organizations, journalism, finance among others.
The five citizens recognized this year were Lauren King of Seattle, Wash.; Rebecca Landsberry of Los Angeles, Calif.; Elsa Lowe of Okmulgee, Okla.; Mekko Tyner of Kiefer, Okla.; and Nathan Wilson of Okmulgee, Okla.
King is an attorney at Foster Pepper PLLC where she practices Indian law relating to cultural resource litigation and treaty rights and chairs as the Native American practice group for the Seattle firm. She is also a board member for the Seattle Indian Health Board and the Northwest Tribal Court Judges Association and formerly served as a chair for the Washington State Bar Association Indian Law Section.
Landsberry is the executive director of the Native American Journalists Association, a non-profit organization that advocates for free press in Indian Country. She previously worked as the editor of Muscogee Nation News for the tribe’s media outlet. She also serves as an elected representative for the Mvskoke Media Editorial Board, which is an independent tribal agency of the Nation.
Lowe works for MCN as a Project Coordinator managing the Native Youth Community Project grant and supervising Education Advisors and Cultural Specialists. Her work also entails working with three school districts to create college and career pathways for Native students.
Tyner also works for the tribe as the registrar at the College of the Muscogee Nation. He is also a graduate of Haskell Indian Nation University and the University of Kansas School of Law.
Wilson is another honoree whose dedication and devotion is to working directly for the tribe. For the past 11 years, he has worked for the MCN Citizenship Department where he has spent the last six of those as Director. His role in the department has led to improvements in the tribe’s enrollment process through advanced technologies in citizenship.
The NCAIED is a non-profit organization that has assisted tribes and their entities with economic and business development for the past 40 years.
For more information on the 2018 class of the “Native American 40 Under 40”, visit the organization’s website at www.ncaied.org.
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MCN Holds 16th Annual Pink Party, Brings Awareness to Breast Cancer
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Oct. 31, 2018
Muscogee (Creek) Nation Holds 16th Annual Pink Party, Brings Awareness to Breast Cancer
GLENPOOL, Okla. – The 16th Annual Muscogee (Creek) Nation Pink Party was held at the Glenpool Convention Center Oct. 30 to bring awareness to breast cancer while honoring those who have lost their battle and sharing the stories of survival.
Every October, as part of the national recognition of October as Breast Cancer Awareness Month, the MCN Department of Health partners with other tribal departments invite survivors and keynote speakers to share their stories and knowledge of breast cancer and informative booths set up as part of the Health Fair.
MCN Principal Chief James R. Floyd and Second Chief Louis Hicks were among the Nation’s dignitaries and citizens joined together to recognize those who have been impacted by breast cancer in all capacities and discuss the latest treatment and prevention.
Floyd expressed to the nearly 600 in attendance the importance of the ceremony and the significant impact it has on the Nation.
“It’s a day that we should celebrate because we are all survivors as you know,” Floyd said. “We’ve all gone through a lot, whether we’ve had cancer ourselves or had family members who’ve survived and those who didn’t. We should honor and respect them and be happy for them because they are in our lives. It’s a day to celebrate for them.”
Attendees also enjoyed lunch, door prizes, Mvskoke hymns by Native Praise and the success story from Muscogee (Creek) citizen and breast cancer survivor, Georgia Harjo.Harjo shared her story and thanked the MCN healthcare system for the medical care she received throughout her battle.
Harjo was later presented with a Pendleton from Floyd and Hicks on behalf of the Nation.
The keynote speaker was, Laurie Flynn, the surgical director of Let’s M. Chapman Breast Center at the Peggy V. Helmerich Women’s Health Center. She discussed the risk factors and statistics associated with the cancer.
According to a statistic Flynn shared from Cancer Treatment Centers of America, “One in eight women will develop invalid breast danger during her lifetime.”
“I want to give you some information that you can take back with you to empower yourselves and empower your family,” Flynn said. “Today, I am going to provide you with information that can be encouraging and that we can all use together.”
Flynn discussed measures women can take to reduce their risk of breast cancer by modifying day-to-day activities such as exercising regularly, maintaining a healthy weight and limiting alcohol consumption and animal fat in the diet.
Flynn said the number one risk factor is being a woman followed by aging, which also increases the risk of developing breast cancer.
This year’s event also presented a video compilation of the popular “Cupid’s Shuffle” song and dance performed by the staff from the MCN National Council, Executive Branch, DOH clinics and hospitals throughout the Nation’s jurisdiction.
The ceremony closed with songs from Native Praise and a closing prayer from Ashley Pendley of Crosstown Church.
For information on the medical services MCN DOH provides, visit www.CreekHealth.org.
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All About the People: Mvskoke Loan Fund Assisting Citizens with Financial Education, Lending Services
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Oct. 31, 2018All About the People: Mvskoke Loan Fund Assisting Citizens with Financial Education, Lending Services
OKMULGEE, Okla. — With Muscogee (Creek) Nation being a sovereign Nation, comes unique opportunities for programs to serve citizens at the highest level through the extensive program efforts to receive grant funding and create partnerships with other organizations.
Created four years ago, the Mvskoke Loan Fund is a non-profit corporation and Community Development Financial Institution certified by the U.S. Treasury CDFI Fund. Currently, Mvskoke Loan Fund offers micro-enterprising lending in loans up to $50, 000 to Muscogee (Creek) citizens and other federally recognized Native Americans residing in Muscogee (Creek) jurisdiction and also provides small business services and financial-related training programs.
Mvskoke Loan Fund Chief Executive Officer Christopher Coburn said the corporation has created a financial training culture for citizens throughout the state, as well as other members of federally recognized tribes within the MCN jurisdiction.
“The training culture is important because it’s giving back to our audience, which helps empower people to better provide for themselves, makes our Nation as a tribe and then our communities, state and our country stronger,” Coburn said. “In my mind, that’s how sovereignty applies to this. The tribe itself is sovereign but if we boil it down to the individual becoming more responsible for what they’re doing then that is a success.”
For the 2018 calendar year, the Mvskoke Loan Fund has helped nearly 900 people, with over 700 being Muscogee citizens, and provided 27 classes free of charge such as Business Boot Camps, GrowOK and other workshops on social media marketing, networking and small business topics.
From the middle of January to the middle of April each year, Mvskoke Loan Fund provides the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program. VITA is an Internal Revenue Service program that allows Mvskoke Loan Fund to offer free tax preparation and e-filing of Federal and State tax returns for low to middle income citizens.
In 2018, 205 citizens (2017 Tax year) received assistance through the VITA program and Coburn said they expect to increase that to 600 families in 2019 (2018 Tax year).
This year, the Tax Counseling for the Elderly (TCE) program will also be available throughout the MCN communities to offer free tax assistance to individuals who are 60 years of age or older, which is funded through an IRS grant.
Other programs are available through grants and partnerships with the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) Community Development Block Grant, the U.S. Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (USDA) Intermediary Relending Program, the First Nations Oweesta Corporation, Oklahoma Native Assets Coalition (ONAC), i2E Foundation, REI Oklahoma, REI Native American Business Centers, and REI Women’s Business Centers. Mvskoke Loan Fund is a member of the Native CDFI Network and has access to share resources and best practices from other successful CDFIs across the United States.
Mvskoke Loan Fund’s target market is for Muscogee (Creek) Nation citizens and other federally recognized Native Americans living in Muscogee (Creek) jurisdictional boundaries. Depending on the funding source, some of the services are not offered exclusively to Native Americans but non-Native Americans, as well.
Coburn said within the next 24 months he is hopeful that mortgage and consumer lending will be available to citizens. Over the long term, he hopes the Mvskoke Loan Fund will become a depository financial institution that offers a full range of banking services.
Institutions such as Mvskoke Loan Fund are pertinent in the success and growth of the Nation and its citizens because it’s all about the people.
“We’re helping people and it’s all revolving around money or how to generate money,” Coburn said. “But the goal is to empower our citizens to empower themselves and become less dependent on others for their needs.”
For more information and a complete list of services Mvskoke Loan Fund offers, visit www.MvskokeLoanFund.org or call 918-549-2603.###
Mvskoke Loan Fund to Host Follow Up Business Workshop
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Oct. 30, 2018Mvskoke Loan Fund to Host Follow Up Business Workshop
MUSKOGEE, Okla. – The Mvskoke Loan Fund will host a half-day workshop for business owners who are looking to generate more business and pique the interest of their target customers through a customer-centric approach.
Valued at $350 per person, the class is available FREE to Oklahoma residents who are looking for confidence in their sales abilities and increase their production.
The ExtraBold Sales Training is an extension of i2E’s GrowOK workshop the Mvksoke Loan Fund recently hosted that provides business owners with the skills needed to promote products or services with less apprehension and greater effectiveness.The course is shepherded by i2E, an Oklahoma nonprofit corporation that provides advisory services to startup companies.
The training will be presented by the creator of the ExtraBold System, Catherine Brown, who uses social science research and an interactive format to increase revenue-generating activities and increase business with immediate “take aways”.Mvskoke Loan Fund Chief Executive Officer Christopher Coburn said the workshop is designed to get the target customer interested and get the business.
“You can’t be shy, you have to go get it,” Coburn said. “Now the customers who attended GrowOK know what they’re doing and have an idea on how to tell their story. Now they need to get out there and get people interested.”ExtraBold is offered through a joint partnership with multiple sponsors including REI Women’s and Native American Business Centers and is funded in part through a U.S. Small Business Administration cooperative agreement.
For more information on the upcoming training and a complete list of services Mvskoke Loan Fund offers, visit www.MvskokeLoanFund.org or call 918-549-2603.
The ExtraBold Sales Training will be held Nov. 9 from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m., in Room C of the Muskogee Civic Center, located at 425 Boston Street Muskogee, OK 74401.
Visit www.REIOK.org/events to register for the ExtraBold Sales Training.###
4th Quarter Report
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Where it All Began: Muscogee (Creek) Nation Reflects Arrival to Indian Territory, History of Council Oak Tree
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Oct. 24, 2018
Where it All Began: Muscogee (Creek) Nation Reflects Arrival to Indian Territory, History of Council Oak Tree
TULSA, Okla. – Each year, the Muscogee (Creek) Nation holds its Council Oak Ceremony at the Creek Nation Council Oak Park in Tulsa, Okla., to celebrate the Mvskoke (Muscogee) people and reflect on the tribe’s history and triumphs over the years.
The gathering allows citizens to not only reflect on the victories that exceeded the trials the Nation has faced throughout history, but also honor the ancestors for their dedication to the tribe and preserving the Mvskoke traditions and beliefs that continue to live on to this day and generations to come.
With several tribal citizens, dignitaries and community members in attendance, MCN Principal Chief James R. Floyd said the Oct. 20 ceremony was a day set aside as an opportunity to reflect and enjoy fellowship of the Mvskoke people and renew friendships.
“I especially want to thank the Mekko-vlke (Traditional Leadership) that are here today for all that they do in service to us,” Floyd said. “As this tree is a site that represents the service they’ve served throughout their lives that has passed on to succeeding generations, to these folks here that have dedicated their life to service us and carrying on our traditions and our beliefs.”
MCN’s Royalty, Miss Nina Fox and Jr. Miss Louisa Harjo, shared the story behind the ceremony and its significance to the tribe, as well as the City of Tulsa.
After surviving forced-removal from their ancestral homelands of Alabama in 1836, the Nation’s Locvpoka (Locapoga) Tribal Town established their new home at the historic Council Oak tree, which resides within the grounds of the Creek Nation Council Oak Park to this day.
As a sacred act, the Locvpoka then placed the coals and ash from the original fires of their homelands at the base of the towering tree, thus, the Council Oak tree which is still present today, to rekindle the fire at their new home, as fire is a revered element of the Mvskoke people and plays an integral part in their religious, political and social systems.
During the ceremony, Muscogee (Creek) citizen Kenneth Johnson detailed the Mvskoke traditions that hold the element of fire to be a sacred representation.
“A fire built with logs pointing in four cardinal directions from the earliest Mvskoke teachings, instruct that our sacred fire should burn internally; and if extinguished, the Mvskoke people will perish,” Johnson said.
Johnson discussed the integral role of sacred fires in the religious, political and social systems of the tribe.
“We take this time to honor all of our tribal towns and our Mvskoke men and women who perpetuate the traditional ways and keep these ceremonial fires burning,” Johnson said. “So, today we gather to honor those past and present that preserve, protect and live the Mvskoke traditions, cultures and life ways.”
Deemed the first settlement of the City of Tulsa, Okla., the Council Oak tree is also where the Locvpoka Tribal Town, upon arriving to Indian Territory, convened and re-established tribal government and held governmental meetings, gatherings, ceremonies, games and feasts; and became known as Tulsa’s first town hall and the first gathering place.
From 1836 to 1896, the Nation conducted business around the tree and had a significant influence on the surrounding area that would later be known as the City of Tulsa, deriving from the Creek word, ‘Tallasi’ or ‘Tvlvhasse’, meaning ‘old town’.
Floyd thanked the citizens and non-citizens in attendance said it’s the Nation’s prayer that the park continues to be utilized as a place to go for reflection and inspiration and guidance in decision making.
While the Mvskoke culture and traditions have remained prominent in the community, this year’s ceremony was a momentous time for the relationship between the City of Tulsa and the MCN.
Earlier this year, Tulsa Public Schools announced the renaming of Lee Elementary to Council Oak Elementary in respect to the school and park’s half-mile proximity.
More notably, the implementing of the 1887 Dawes Act prior to Oklahoma’s statehood, would indicate the Creek Nation Council Oak Park, located at 1750 S. Cheyenne Tulsa, Okla., is two original allotments away from the school.
“It is our intention as the tribe to have an ongoing relationship with the school and that has already started with discussions with the school administration,” Floyd said. “The MCN Public Relations is working with the school a special event to officially unite the two. Our staff will be going in and teaching them not only about Creek history but the history here and allotment of lands.”
In 1992, the Creek Nation Council Oak Park was listed in the National Register of Historic Places. However, the Council Oak tree was added in 1976 to the National Registry.
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All About the People: MCN Program Provides Care and Support to Sexual Assault Survivors
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Oct. 22, 2018
All About the People: Muscogee (Creek) Nation Program Provides Care and Support to Sexual Assault Survivors
OKMULGEE, Okla. – Among the various services the Muscogee (Creek) Nation offers to citizens and communities, the tribe continues to implement new programs that provide assistance to those in need.
One of the fairly new MCN programs, the MCN Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner Program, known as the SANE Program, provides comprehensive care and support to victims of sexual violence for Native and non-Native men and women within the tribal jurisdiction.
Before the MCN SANE Program was established in 2016, MCN Family Violence Prevention Program and the MCN Department of Health joined efforts to identify and resolve gaps in services within the MCN boundaries.
One of the challenges they recognized was the lack of victims’ resources available to sexual assault survivors in rural communities; including access to sexual assault exams. In turn, victims would have to travel to Tulsa for a SANE exam.
Funding from the Federal Victims of Crime Act of Victim Assistance Grant (VOCA) allowed MCN to implement the SANE Program to provide free and confidential exams to victims at the Muscogee (Creek) Nation Medical Center in Okmulgee, Okla., and the Creek Nation Community Hospital in Okemah, Okla.
MCN DOH Public Health Nurse and On-Call SANE Nurse, Brandy Treagesser, said adding the program was a significant impact on the MCN communities.
“In such a small community that serves such a wide population of people, just having it here people are a lot more likely to report what happened than them not reporting because they would have to drive to Tulsa,” Treagesser said. “And with a small community, I think people are more likely to report and are more comfortable.”
MCN SANE Program Manager LaResa Williams said providing the SANE Program to survivors is a first step in the healing process.
Once a call is made to MCN’s 24-hour SANE Hotline, within an hour of that call the sexual assault survivor is able to meet with a SANE Nurse and SANE Advocate who have specialized training in the comprehensive care advocacy of sexual assault victims.
Adults 18 years or older do not have to report the case to law enforcement. However, any SANE Exam administered to a victim under the age of 18 must be reported to law enforcement.
After the completed exam, the program’s support and advocacy services are voluntarily available to the survivor from financial and housing assistance to court advocacy throughout the prosecution process as needed.
“We’re able to meet the needs of citizens and non-citizens within the Nation’s boundaries and put victims in contact with advocacy services,” FVPP Victims’ Advocate Annie Merritt, said. “We can help with emergency shelter, financial services and court advocacy.”
Merritt said court advocacy is essentially working as a lesion between the victim and the court and law enforcement by explaining the court process, attending interviews, meetings and court hearings, as well as offering emotional support.
“We’re providing the information back to the victims and interpreting the criminal justice process and also providing that emotional support,” Merritt said. “Most aren’t familiar with the different hearings and just having us there to explain that and provide them that comfort and support throughout and a familiar face.”
As part of the SANE Program, Domestic Violence Exams are also administered to victims of intimate partner violence and services offered to victims of domestic violence.
Bringing awareness to domestic violence and sexual assault and providing support to the victims is imperative to the Nation, because it’s all about the people.
For more information on the services available to victims as well as full details of the SANE Program, visit the FVPP website at www.muscogeenation.com/services/family-violence-prevention-program.
The 24-hour SANE Hotline can be reached at 918-732-7979 where an advocate is available at all times to speak with.
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All About the People: Muscogee (Creek) Citizen Credits Nation for Education, Experience
(Photo courtesy of Clint Summers)
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Oct. 12, 2018
All About the People: Muscogee (Creek) Citizen Credits Nation for Education, Experience
TULSA, Okla. – Muscogee (Creek) citizen, Clint Summers, is in his third and final year of law school at the University of Tulsa and was recently selected as TU College of Law’s 2018 Oklahoma Bar Association Student of the Year.
Each year, Oklahoma law schools select one graduating student as the OBA award recipient and to be recognized at the association’s event held in November.
Born in Oklahoma City, Summers grew up in Dallas, Texas and later attended the University of Oklahoma before relocating to take a position at Willliams in Tulsa. He later left the company to study law at TU.
Summers said with the help of grant funding, MCN made it possible for him to receive both his undergraduate and post-graduate degrees.
“I wouldn’t have gotten either degrees the way I did without Creek Nation,” Summers said. “The Creek Nation has always been a really big source of pride for me and my family to be members and part of the Nation. I think it really has shaped the direction of both my education and my career.”
Summers received funding through the MCN Higher Education Department’s Undergraduate and Post-Graduate Grants. Most recently, he was awarded the MCN Higher Education Doctoral Grant.
While finishing up his degree TU, he is also working as an articles research editor for the Tulsa Law Review, as well as a research assistant working for TU Professor Russell Christopher who specializes in criminal law.
In addition to the prominent awards and honors Summers has received, he has also gained significant experience on the federal courts level through externships with the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Tenth Circuit and the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Oklahoma in Tulsa.
Summers authored an article to be published soon in the American Indian Law Journal titled “Rethinking the Federal Indian Status Test: A Look at the Supreme Court’s Classification of the Freedmen of the Five Civilized Tribes of Oklahoma.”
After graduation, he will serve one year as a law clerk to the Honorable Claire V. Eagan, U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Oklahoma in Tulsa and the following year he will serve one year as a law clerk to the Honorable Jacques L. Wiener Jr., U.S. Court of Appeals for the Fifth Circuit in New Orleans, La.
Summers has been looking into programs to apply for after completing his externships that would allow him to practice Native American Law.
“Being a Creek citizen is just a sense of pride for me and it’s directed me toward Native American Law and that’s something I really hope to practice after my clerkships,” Summers said.
Summers said he is honored and grateful for the recognition and experience he has received throughout his career.
The countless achievements of citizens and their stories of success is what motivates the Nation’s departments and services to help in all aspects of life when needed because ‘it’s all about the people’.
The MCN Higher Education Department offers grants to Muscogee (Creek) citizens pursuing undergraduate and post-graduate degrees from an accredited college or university.
The department offers three Undergraduate Grants; The Tribal Fund Grant, Bureau of Indian Affairs Grant and Tribal Incentive Grant.
The Post-Graduate Grants include the Doctoral Degree Program and the Master’s Program.
For more information on additional assistance MCN Higher Education provides, visit the departmental website at www.muscogeenation.com/services/education-training/higher-education/ or contact the office at 918-732-7661.
Grant requirements, applications and deadlines are available on the website, as well.
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Muscogee (Creek) Citizens, City of Okmulgee Celebrate First Indigenous Peoples’ Day
(Photo by: Amanda Rutland/MCNPR) Muscogee (Creek) Nation elders sang at the celebration of Okmulgee’s first Indigenous Peoples’ Day Oct. 8, at the MCN Council House in downtown Okmulgee.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Oct. 9, 2018
OKMULGEE, Okla. – A quaint gathering celebrated in the Muscogee (Creek) capitol city for Okmulgee’s first Indigenous Peoples’ Day as proclaimed by the City of Okmulgee Mayor Steve Baldridge Oct. 8, 2018.
Muscogee (Creek) citizens and others gathered at the MCN Council House Lawn for Baldridge’s reading of the city’s resolution, as well as remarks from MCN National Council Representatives Del Beaver and James Jennings of Okmulgee County District.
The event location at the MCN Council House, located in the center square of Okmulgee, was momentous as the MCN Historic Council House was established in 1867 as the Nation’s Capitol.
Baldridge said the proclamation was something that should have been done a long time ago however was honored to create the resolution, which officially declared the second Monday in October and every year thereafter as Indigenous Peoples’ Day for Okmulgee.
Baldridge read the resolution, which reaffirmed the city’s commitment to Native Americans by promoting collaboration efforts between indigenous and non-indigenous communities and tribal governments.
“The City of Okmulgee values the many contributions made to our community through indigenous people’s knowledge, labor, technology, science, philosophy, arts and the deep cultural and spiritual contributions that has substantially shaped the character of many of the citizens of Okmulgee,” Baldridge said.
Beaver and Jennings spoke on behalf of the Nation and thanked the city for recognizing the Mvskoke people and all indigenous people within the community.
“I’ve lived here in Okmulgee and claimed Okmulgee as my home all of my life,” Jennings said. “I’d like to thank the mayor and Okmulgee City Council for declaring this day, Indigenous Peoples’ Day. It’s been a long time coming.”
In support of the proclamation, MCN Principal Chief James R. Floyd prepared a letter of appreciation for Baldridge stating the Nation’s readiness to work with the City of Okmulgee for the well-being of the community.
“As this holiday celebrates Native Americans and commemorates our shared history and culture, we appreciate the thoughtfulness and show our gratitude toward the relationship we have with the community,” Floyd’s statement read.
The Society to Protect Indigenous Rights and Indigenous Treaties (SPIRIT) group hosted the celebration that included other citizen remarks, Creek hymns by Mvskoke Women’s Leadership and Okmulgee Indian Community and vendor booths set up on the lawn.
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MCN Principal Chief speaks, shows support during trauma-informed instruction summit
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Oct. 8, 2018
Muscogee (Creek) Nation Principal Chief Speaks, Shows Support During Trauma-Informed Instruction Summit
OKLAHOMA CITY, Okla. – Muscogee (Creek) Nation Principal Chief James R. Floyd attended the Oklahoma State Department of Education’s Trauma Summit, ‘It Starts Here: Trauma-Informed Instruction’ at the Cox Convention Center in Oklahoma City, Okla., Oct. 2.
MCN was the Presenting Sponsor for the two-day summit that addressed childhood trauma and advocacy by providing educators with the tools to identify and respond to children dealing with adverse experiences.
Floyd was invited to speak at the conference to the several hundred attendees from state and national government agencies and non-profit organizations, as well as Oklahoma tribal nations and educators from across the state.
OSDE State Superintendent Joy Hofmeister introduced Floyd and commended MCN for its dedication to improving the well-being of Oklahoma children.
“We would not be here today without the support of our tribal partners,” Hofmeister said. “The Muscogee (Creek) Nation has been an important partner in this work and I want to thank them right now. The Nation is strongly committed to doing whatever it will take to help our children and connect the dots not only to our native children but to all Oklahoma school children and those yet to start.”
Floyd thanked the educators, community leaders and volunteers for their commitment and help in reaching the state’s goals needed to make schools a safe and supportive environment for every child.
“As the state works to provide education to ensure a foundation of safety, understanding and caring, it is paramount I am here today strongly in support of the efforts of my staff, MCN Secretary of Education Greg Anderson and his staff,” Floyd said. “I want to make sure they feel supported because we deal with these issues back home just like you do in your communities.”
Floyd said childhood adversity must be a priority of Oklahoma’s and the educational and governmental entities must act boldly and effectively to help those students affected by childhood trauma.
“Muscogee (Creek) Nation, like all tribal nations and their communities and their students throughout Oklahoma, are no strangers to this reality and this trauma,” Floyd said. “However, we remain committed to promoting and supporting the trauma-informed approach and professional development at this most crucial time by providing our time, staffing, facilities and funding to create effective and corrective solutions for childhood adversity.”
Floyd said departments including MCN Family and Child Services, MCN Department of Health and MCN Department of Education and Training stand ready, willing and able to assist in the effort to ensure communities and schools identify and support students effected by trauma.
For more information on the services and assistance MCN provides, visit the nation’s website at www.muscogeenation.com.
All About the People: Mvskoke Language Program Begins Offering Beginner Classes
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Oct. 5, 2018
All About the People: Mvskoke Language Program Begins Offering Beginner Classes
OKMULGEE, Okla. – Among the several departments and services Muscogee (Creek) Nation offers to citizens, and at times the public, the Mvskoke Language Program’s goal is to preserve, maintain and revitalize the Mvskoke language through ongoing projects.
Funded through MCN and National Council support, the program began in 2004 as a Resource Center for those interested in learning or teaching the language of our people.
The Beginner Mvskoke Language Class is a new class offered to the public at no cost. The class is held every Monday and Wednesday from 12 p.m. to 1 p.m. and is taught by Gracine Hicks, a program instructor or ‘myhayv’.
The Intermediate Mvskoke Language Class is a continuation of an ongoing class taught by myhayv Rebecca Barnett that started in August of 2017 and is held Tuesday, Thursday and Friday from 12 p.m. to 1 p.m.
The program also has three instructors who teach at jurisdictional schools and head start programs including Muskogee, Wetumka, Okemah, Wainwright, Tulsa, Okmulgee, Checotah, Eufaula Head Start Centers, as well as Okmulgee Day Care and the Eufaula Boarding School.
Mvskoke Language Program Manager Judy Montiel said about 250 to 275 individuals receive the language education on a weekly basis.
For those who are unable to attend the weekly classes, other resources are available at no cost such as, CD’s, DVD’s and Resource Packets that contain crossword puzzles, word searches, coloring books and the Mvskoke alphabet and two and three letter sounds.
As part of preserving the language, the program has an ongoing Hymn Project to provide free Mvskoke Hymns booklets. Different singers are brought in and given a small incentive to record hymns of the department’s choice.
“Our hopes with that are not only for an archive purpose, but also for those that are wanting to learn some hymns and we do get those requests,” Montiel said.
The New Testament Bible is also available in Microsoft Word format, as well as the audio version. The CD version is nearing completion and will be available soon, as well.
A yearly calendar, a week long immersion camp for Muscogee (Creek) youth, along with several other projects and resources available, are ways the program can do its part in maintaining the Mvskoke culture for years to come.
“It’s important because if we don’t learn and teach the language, we lose it,” Montiel said. “It’s part of our identity as who we are as Mvskoke people. It’s a doable thing to learn the language. I just feel it’s important for each of us to have a role in either teaching it or learning it.”
In November 2017, the program received the Perry Aunko Indigenous Language Preservation Award at the 20th Annual Dream Keepers Awards by the Greater Tulsa Indian Affairs Commission for the exposure of the Nation’s language through events and education.
The program plans to expand community outreach efforts by adding a coordinator position in the future that will create partnerships with additional schools.
For more information on the Mvskoke Language Program and the available resources, visit the website at www.muscogeenation.com/services/mvskoke-language-program or call 918-732-7724.
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MCN Principal Chief, Citizens Recognized as AARP Oklahoma’s 10th Annual Indian Elder Honorees
(Photo Courtesy of AARP Oklahoma)
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Oct. 4, 2018
Muscogee (Creek) Nation Principal Chief, Citizens Among Those Recognized as AARP Oklahoma’s 10th Annual Indian Elder Honorees
OKLAHOMA CITY, Okla. – Muscogee (Creek) Nation Principal Chief James R. Floyd was among the six Muscogee (Creek) citizens who were recognized as AARP Oklahoma’s 10th Annual Indian Elder Honorees at the National Cowboy and Western Heritage Museum in Oklahoma City, Okla. Oct. 2, 2018.
Before his role as MCN Principal Chief, Floyd served as the Director of the Eastern Oklahoma Veterans Affairs in Muskogee, Okla. Floyd has an extensive background in the health care system.
His background in health won him numerous honors including; American College of Healthcare Executives’ Regent’s Award, a lifetime achievement for demonstrating leadership ability and innovative and creative management.
Floyd also managed the first tribal-owned hospital in the U.S. and negotiated the transfer of several clinics from Indian Health Services to tribal management.
As the leader of the fourth largest tribe in the Nation, Floyd was recognized by Oklahoma Magazine as one of the top five leaders in the state. The magazine told MCN Public Relations that Floyd was chosen for all that has been accomplished for his people and mainly for his business interests.
When Floyd came into office in 2015, he inherited a $70 million deficit and in less than a year he turned it around. He was also credited for the completion of the $365 million River Spirit Casino Resort and the recent land into trust project at the Fountainhead Resort. The prime acreage near Eufaula Lake is now tax-free and fully tribally-owned.
(Photo Courtesy of AARP Oklahoma) “My job as a leader is to listen to the needs of my people,” Floyd said. “It’s very humbling to receive awards like this because I know it comes at the nomination of the people. That’s why it means even more.”
Rachael Sourjohn, a tribal citizen who works with the Mvskoke Nation Youth Services, nominated Floyd for this year’s Indian Elder Honors.
“He was the first person I thought of… To see how much he’s done and how much he cares about our tribe,” said Sourjohn. “He’s turned our tribe around and got us flourishing and got us back to our roots, preserving our culture and language. It was a gift to me to be able to honor him.”
Sourjohn also noted Floyd cares deeply for our elders and supports the children’s programs 100 percent.
“I love how he loves our youth, he’s like our number one fan,” Sourjohn said.
In addition to Floyd being honored at this year’s banquet, recognition was also given to Muscogee (Creek) citizens Delois Louise Dunzy Roulston, Joy Harjo-Sapulpa, Justice Leah Harjo-Ware, Mickey White, Thomas Yahola and eight other honorees with Mvskoke ancestry for their contributions.
Since 2009, AARP has honored 500 members from all 39 of Oklahoma’s federally-recognized tribes who have made positive contributions to their tribes, communities, state and Nation.
Out of the 50 or older and living Native Americans nominated for this year’s award, AARP Oklahoma selected 50 of those elders whose contributions are consistent with the organization’s mission and vision to inspire others to service, as stated in the honoree announcement letter.
A full biography of each honoree and their contributions is available at the AARP Oklahoma website: https://states.aarp.org/aarp-recognizes-native-elders-at-10th-annual-indian-elder-honors/.
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Muscogee (Creek) Nation Department of Health Utilizes Grant Funding to Take on Opioid Crisis
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Oct. 4, 2018
OKMULGEE, Okla. – As a result of the National Opioid Crisis, Muscogee (Creek) Nation has reacted by filing a federal lawsuit against major opioid manufacturers distributors and pharmacies; now the Nation is using grant funding to combat the epidemic throughout its 11-county jurisdiction.
The most recent grant for $943,088 was awarded through the U.S. Department of Justice Comprehensive Opioid Abuse Program (COAP) to fund a master data platform with three specific goals the tribe will implement.
The overall strategy of the MCN’s COAP is to establish the platform that will track and identify patient trends within the MCN Department of Health system, create a multidisciplinary task force for internal policy and procedures to prevent and treat opioid use disorder and finally, allow MCNDOH to expand treatment options through additional certification and training of providers.
Since the opioid epidemic became a forefront of the Nation’s concerns, MCNDOH has been awarded four opioid-related grants totaling close to $2 million in funding.
The other grants include Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMSHA), Screening, Brief Intervention and Referral to Treatment (SBIRT) project, and funding from the Center for Disease Control.
MCN will utilize the collaboration of grants to provide treatment options for patients by opening an outpatient pain and addiction center.
MCN Secretary of Health Shawn Terry said the Tribal Health Management Structure grant will specifically fund the costs associated with creating an infrastructure that will allow the Nation to house multiple specialists and services in one Okmulgee, Okla. location.
MCNDOH anticipates once the Fiscal Year 2019 Budget is passed, the pain and addiction center should be up and running at the MCN Physical Rehabilitation Center.
Additional funding of $787,000 will allow the tribe to acquire a tracking system within the healthcare system and educate clinical staff on how to screen patients for signs of addiction or high-risk factors of abuse.
As a result of the lawsuit MCN filed in U.S. Federal Court, the Nation is one of only two tribes chosen as a test case for Tribal Track, which was created by Ohio Federal Judge Dan Poster for the tribal opioid litigation.
Terry said because of the tribe’s position on the national epidemic, it is paramount the Nation utilizes available funding to mitigate and prevent the problem.
“We are leading the country; we’re being the bellwether case on these lawsuits,” Terry said. “So, we’re going to lead the country in the lawsuit, we will also lead the country in having developed a program of how we’re addressing and using this funding. We have to be able to identify those people at risk and treat those people or refer them out.”
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Fountainhead Creek Golf Course holds ribbon cutting for re-opening
by: Amanda Rutland/MCNPR
CHECOTAH, Okla. — The Muscogee (Creek) Nation Fountainhead Creek Golf Course held a ribbon cutting Oct. 1 to celebrate the new facility updates.
The updates include new golf carts, new greens and a new roof among other things. Principal Chief James Floyd said the state of the art golf carts have lithium batteries to last longer. The carts are more efficient and are equipped with GPS.
“It will be a lighter foot print on the golf course and so the golf course is a jewel here and one we want to protect,” Floyd said.
Fountainhead General Manager Jimmy Saenz started four months ago. He said the facility has a lot of plans including hole re-configurations and they are just getting started.
“We are looking to bring quality back to the golf course,” Saenz said. “I’ve gotten an opportunity to play the full 18 holes here, love it.”
Fountainhead has also moved to a tiered pricing structure to make the course affordable for everyone.
Saenz announced that in the spring, they would be opening a teaching academy for high school students.
For more information about Fountainhead Creek Golf Course, visit: www.fountainheadgolf.com or call: (918) 689-3209.
Mvskoke Loan Fund to Host GrowOK Workshop Oct. 19
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Sept. 25, 2018
OKMULGEE, Okla. – As a Training Partner of the GrowOK project, Mvskoke Loan Fund will host a free GrowOK Workshop Oct. 19 in Okmulgee, Okla.
Valued at $375 per person, the one-day class is available FREE to Oklahoma residents who are looking to start a business or grow an existing business.
GrowOK is a project funded through a U.S. Economic Development Administration grant with matching funds from the Muscogee (Creek) Nation, Cherokee, Chickasaw and Choctaw Nations, as well as Oklahoma Business Roundtable and the Oklahoma Center for the Advancement of Science and Technology.
The program provides tools to new and expanding businesses by helping them in ‘targeting the ideal customer’ and then increasing that customer base.
GrowOK was created to diversify rural Oklahoma economies and create job opportunities through promoting the small businesses of under served Native and rural entrepreneurs.
The training is an expansion of the Venture Assessment Program created by i2E, an Oklahoma corporation that provides advisory services to startup companies.
Mvskoke Loan Fund Chief Executive Officer Christopher Coburn said this training meets the needs of customers and potential loan clients. It also complements well the ongoing training provided by Mvskoke Loan Fund’s Business Boot Camp courses.
How does this benefit the community? “When our people are able to generate more income and provide for their families and their future, it makes the tribe as a whole stronger and the community, as well,” Coburn said.
In addition to providing business loans to Muscogee (Creek) citizens and members of other federally-recognized tribes, Mvskoke Loan Fund hosts trainings such as GrowOK as part of its services offered.
Mvskoke Loan Fund is a non-profit corporation and Community Development Financial Institution certified by the U.S. Treasury CDFI Fund. Mvskoke Loan Fund provides financial-related skills and programs, which include in-house tax preparation, financial literacy education, business planning assistance and more.
“We teach clients how to handle money, how to use money to better their lives and for qualified applicants we provide the loans to make it happen,” Coburn said.
For more information and a complete list of services Mvskoke Loan Fund offers, visit www.MvskokeLoanFund.org or call 918-549-2603.
The Oct. 19 GrowOK workshop will be held 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. at the College of the Muscogee Nation in the Student Center, Rooms 107 and 108, located at 2170 Raven Circle Okmulgee, OK 74447.
To register for the training, visit the GrowOK website at www.GrowOk.org. Seating is limited and open to the first 60 people registered. Lunch will be provided.
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Attendees also enjoyed lunch, door prizes, Mvskoke hymns by Native Praise and the success story from Muscogee (Creek) citizen and breast cancer survivor, Georgia Harjo.
