I AM NATIVE AND PROUD OF IT
The recent Facebook posts targeting our family, our children, our leaders, and members
of our community have been deeply disturbing. Copying people’s photos, mocking
them, calling them names, and attacking them simply because they belong to or are
affiliated with a state-recognized tribe is not education—it is harassment and bullying.
The most important thing that needs to be understood is that two very different issues
are often intentionally—or ignorantly—confused:
1. Is someone eligible for enrollment in a federally recognized tribe?
2. Does someone have Indigenous ancestry and a legitimate connection to a
Native community?
Those are not the same question.
Tribal enrollment is a legal and political relationship with a sovereign tribal nation. It is
governed by that tribe’s own laws and enrollment requirements, often requiring
documented descent from ancestors listed on specific historical rolls. Enrollment is not
a universal certification of Native ancestry.
The fact that someone cannot qualify for enrollment in a particular federally recognized
tribe does not automatically mean they have no Indigenous ancestry. It does not erase
documented family history, historical records, or generations of genealogical research.
We understand this distinction because one of our own citizens working work in
enrollment for a federally recognized tribe. Every day they see that enrollment,
genealogy, ancestry, and tribal recognition are related, but they are not
interchangeable.
As for my own heritage has documented family lineage connecting to Cherokee
ancestors, whose names appear in historical records and books. My family history has
been researched through genealogical and historical sources. While we have not
located an ancestor on the specific rolls (Dawes) required for enrollment in one of the
federally recognized Cherokee tribes that simply means it does not meet that tribe’s
enrollment requirements. It does not mean that the ancestry is fabricated just because
you are other rolls that are not used in their enrollment process.
History is rarely simple. The allotment era was marked by documented mistakes,
omissions, corruption, and inconsistencies. Enrollment records were created for specific
legal purposes and should not be treated as the sole measure of a person’s entire
ancestral history.
Supporting federally recognized tribes and respecting tribal sovereignty is important. I
fully support the sovereign right of every federally recognized tribe to determine its own
citizenship. However, supporting tribal sovereignty does not justify making sweeping
accusations that every person associated with a state-recognized tribe is a “pretendian”
or has fabricated their ancestry. That is not a historical or genealogical argument—it is a
personal attack.
If someone believes my documented genealogy is incorrect, then present credible
historical evidence. Genealogical claims should be evaluated through records,
documentation, and research—not through insults, assumptions, or social media
attacks.
No family should have to defend their children against adults who copy their
photographs, ridicule them publicly, or question their identity simply to score points in an
online argument.
Not everyone who asks questions is acting in bad faith. Some people genuinely want to
understand the difference between tribal citizenship, ancestry, and recognition. Those
conversations are worthwhile. But those who refuse to examine evidence and instead
resort to name-calling and harassment are not seeking truth—they are seeking conflict.
So I’ll simply say this:
You are welcome to disagree with the recognition status of any tribal organization. You
are not entitled to make personal accusations about our citizens, our children, our
leaders, or our community without first examining the evidence.
Our family’s history deserves to be evaluated through facts, records, and documented
genealogy—not through a social media purity test where strangers decide who is
“Native enough.”
Respectful disagreement is welcome. Harassment is not.
Deputy Chief
of our community have been deeply disturbing. Copying people’s photos, mocking
them, calling them names, and attacking them simply because they belong to or are
affiliated with a state-recognized tribe is not education—it is harassment and bullying.
The most important thing that needs to be understood is that two very different issues
are often intentionally—or ignorantly—confused:
1. Is someone eligible for enrollment in a federally recognized tribe?
2. Does someone have Indigenous ancestry and a legitimate connection to a
Native community?
Those are not the same question.
Tribal enrollment is a legal and political relationship with a sovereign tribal nation. It is
governed by that tribe’s own laws and enrollment requirements, often requiring
documented descent from ancestors listed on specific historical rolls. Enrollment is not
a universal certification of Native ancestry.
The fact that someone cannot qualify for enrollment in a particular federally recognized
tribe does not automatically mean they have no Indigenous ancestry. It does not erase
documented family history, historical records, or generations of genealogical research.
We understand this distinction because one of our own citizens working work in
enrollment for a federally recognized tribe. Every day they see that enrollment,
genealogy, ancestry, and tribal recognition are related, but they are not
interchangeable.
As for my own heritage has documented family lineage connecting to Cherokee
ancestors, whose names appear in historical records and books. My family history has
been researched through genealogical and historical sources. While we have not
located an ancestor on the specific rolls (Dawes) required for enrollment in one of the
federally recognized Cherokee tribes that simply means it does not meet that tribe’s
enrollment requirements. It does not mean that the ancestry is fabricated just because
you are other rolls that are not used in their enrollment process.
History is rarely simple. The allotment era was marked by documented mistakes,
omissions, corruption, and inconsistencies. Enrollment records were created for specific
legal purposes and should not be treated as the sole measure of a person’s entire
ancestral history.
Supporting federally recognized tribes and respecting tribal sovereignty is important. I
fully support the sovereign right of every federally recognized tribe to determine its own
citizenship. However, supporting tribal sovereignty does not justify making sweeping
accusations that every person associated with a state-recognized tribe is a “pretendian”
or has fabricated their ancestry. That is not a historical or genealogical argument—it is a
personal attack.
If someone believes my documented genealogy is incorrect, then present credible
historical evidence. Genealogical claims should be evaluated through records,
documentation, and research—not through insults, assumptions, or social media
attacks.
No family should have to defend their children against adults who copy their
photographs, ridicule them publicly, or question their identity simply to score points in an
online argument.
Not everyone who asks questions is acting in bad faith. Some people genuinely want to
understand the difference between tribal citizenship, ancestry, and recognition. Those
conversations are worthwhile. But those who refuse to examine evidence and instead
resort to name-calling and harassment are not seeking truth—they are seeking conflict.
So I’ll simply say this:
You are welcome to disagree with the recognition status of any tribal organization. You
are not entitled to make personal accusations about our citizens, our children, our
leaders, or our community without first examining the evidence.
Our family’s history deserves to be evaluated through facts, records, and documented
genealogy—not through a social media purity test where strangers decide who is
“Native enough.”
Respectful disagreement is welcome. Harassment is not.
Deputy Chief
🌟 NORTHERN CHEROKEE NATION UPDATES 🌟
Vendor Information!
|
Dear Prospective Vendors,
We are honored to invite you to participate in the upcoming Annual Northern Cherokee Nation Powwow Cultural Gathering. This meaningful event celebrates the rich heritage of the Northern Cherokee Nation and offers a unique opportunity to share our culture with participants and visitors from across the country. As a vendor, you’ll be part of an experience that fosters community connection, cultural awareness, and lasting memories. We are excited to announce that Friday, September 18th, is Vendor Appreciation Day. complimentary dinner will be provided that evening as a token of our gratitude for your participation and support. This day is dedicated exclusively to our vendors a chance to network, visit, and enjoy time together as a community of your own before the event begins. We sincerely appreciate your support and look forward to celebrating this special gathering with you. Warm regards, Northern Cherokee Nation |
| ||||
Osiyo!
We in the Northern Cherokee Nation office would like to extend our heartfelt gratitude to all of our supporters who have stood with us throughout the years. Your encouragement, dedication, and belief in our mission have helped sustain and strengthen our Nation through every challenge and achievement.
A special Wado (Thank You) to those who continue to walk beside us as we move forward into the future. Your ongoing support helps preserve our heritage, strengthen our community, and build opportunities for generations to come.
We are honored and grateful for each and every one of you.
Citizen Information Update Request
If you have not yet updated your files with us for any of the following changes, please do so at your earliest convenience:
• Name (Have you gotten married or had another legal name change?)
• Address (Have you moved?)
• Phone Number (Have you changed your number?)
• E-Mail Address (We are exploring email subscriptions for tribal news, announcements, and updates.)
Keeping your information current helps us stay connected with our tribal family and ensures you receive important communications and opportunities as they become available.
Wado,
The Northern Cherokee Nation Office
We in the Northern Cherokee Nation office would like to extend our heartfelt gratitude to all of our supporters who have stood with us throughout the years. Your encouragement, dedication, and belief in our mission have helped sustain and strengthen our Nation through every challenge and achievement.
A special Wado (Thank You) to those who continue to walk beside us as we move forward into the future. Your ongoing support helps preserve our heritage, strengthen our community, and build opportunities for generations to come.
We are honored and grateful for each and every one of you.
Citizen Information Update Request
If you have not yet updated your files with us for any of the following changes, please do so at your earliest convenience:
• Name (Have you gotten married or had another legal name change?)
• Address (Have you moved?)
• Phone Number (Have you changed your number?)
• E-Mail Address (We are exploring email subscriptions for tribal news, announcements, and updates.)
Keeping your information current helps us stay connected with our tribal family and ensures you receive important communications and opportunities as they become available.
Wado,
The Northern Cherokee Nation Office
The Northern Cherokee Nation
Digital Book Store is Now Open!
ᎣᏏᏲ (Osiyo), Tribal Family and Friends!
We are pleased to announce the opening of the Northern Cherokee Nation Digital Book Store at NorthernCherokeeNation.com.
Our online store currently features a growing collection of digital books focused on Cherokee history, culture,
traditions, and educational resources. These publications are designed to help preserve and share knowledge
while making valuable information accessible to tribal members, researchers, educators, and anyone interested
in learning more about the Cherokee people.
Digital books can be downloaded instantly, allowing you to begin exploring and learning right away from the comfort of your home.
Every purchase supports the Northern Cherokee Nation's efforts to preserve our heritage, promote education, and strengthen our community for future generations.
We invite you to visit the store, browse our available titles, and check back often as new publications and
resources are added.
Wado for your continued support of the Northern Cherokee Nation and our mission to preserve and share
Cherokee history and culture.
Visit the Digital Book Store at NorthernCherokeeNation.com
Wado!
Northern Cherokee Nation
We are pleased to announce the opening of the Northern Cherokee Nation Digital Book Store at NorthernCherokeeNation.com.
Our online store currently features a growing collection of digital books focused on Cherokee history, culture,
traditions, and educational resources. These publications are designed to help preserve and share knowledge
while making valuable information accessible to tribal members, researchers, educators, and anyone interested
in learning more about the Cherokee people.
Digital books can be downloaded instantly, allowing you to begin exploring and learning right away from the comfort of your home.
Every purchase supports the Northern Cherokee Nation's efforts to preserve our heritage, promote education, and strengthen our community for future generations.
We invite you to visit the store, browse our available titles, and check back often as new publications and
resources are added.
Wado for your continued support of the Northern Cherokee Nation and our mission to preserve and share
Cherokee history and culture.
Visit the Digital Book Store at NorthernCherokeeNation.com
Wado!
Northern Cherokee Nation
A Message of Unity from
Chief Kenn Grey Elk &
Deputy Chief Mike Wandering Wolf
ᎣᏏᏲ – Welcome to 2026 from the Northern Cherokee Nation
As we step into 2026, we do so with steady hearts and strong roots. Each new year is like a council fire rekindled. The embers are our ancestors.
The flame is our people today. The smoke carries our prayers forward.
On behalf of the leadership of the Northern Cherokee Nation, we welcome you to a year of growth, culture, service, and community.
As we step into 2026, we do so with steady hearts and strong roots. Each new year is like a council fire rekindled. The embers are our ancestors.
The flame is our people today. The smoke carries our prayers forward.
On behalf of the leadership of the Northern Cherokee Nation, we welcome you to a year of growth, culture, service, and community.
|
Our Vision for 2026
This year, we are focusing on:
We honor where we come from while preparing the path ahead for the next seven generations. |
Website & Communication Updates
In 2026, we plan to:
Vertical Divider
|
Upcoming 2026 Events
Here are several events already in motion for this year:
Spring Cultural Gathering
A time for storytelling, traditional teachings, and fellowship as the earth awakens.
Annual Powwow (38th Year Celebration)
Our drum will sound once again as dancers, singers, vendors, and families gather in celebration of culture and tradition.
Grand Entry times and vendor registration details will be announced soon.
Summer Youth Leadership & Cultural Workshop
Focused on teaching history, traditions, and life skills to our younger citizens.
Vendor Appreciation & Community Networking Day
Supporting small businesses and artisans within our tribal community.
Fall Heritage Celebration & Council Updates
A gathering to share progress, goals, and community planning initiatives.
Tribal Winter Craft Market – December 2026
An opportunity for citizens to showcase handmade goods and support tribal fundraising efforts during the holiday season.
Event dates, registration forms, and updates will be posted right here on NorthernCherokeeNation.com as details are finalized.
Here are several events already in motion for this year:
Spring Cultural Gathering
A time for storytelling, traditional teachings, and fellowship as the earth awakens.
Annual Powwow (38th Year Celebration)
Our drum will sound once again as dancers, singers, vendors, and families gather in celebration of culture and tradition.
Grand Entry times and vendor registration details will be announced soon.
Summer Youth Leadership & Cultural Workshop
Focused on teaching history, traditions, and life skills to our younger citizens.
Vendor Appreciation & Community Networking Day
Supporting small businesses and artisans within our tribal community.
Fall Heritage Celebration & Council Updates
A gathering to share progress, goals, and community planning initiatives.
Tribal Winter Craft Market – December 2026
An opportunity for citizens to showcase handmade goods and support tribal fundraising efforts during the holiday season.
Event dates, registration forms, and updates will be posted right here on NorthernCherokeeNation.com as details are finalized.
Get Involved
This Nation thrives because of volunteers, leaders, artists, elders, and families who step forward. Whether you serve on a committee, bring a covered dish, volunteer at an event, mentor youth, or simply attend gatherings with a positive spirit, you are part of the circle.
If you have ideas, skills, or would like to help with upcoming projects, please reach out to [email protected]. There is room at the table.
This Nation thrives because of volunteers, leaders, artists, elders, and families who step forward. Whether you serve on a committee, bring a covered dish, volunteer at an event, mentor youth, or simply attend gatherings with a positive spirit, you are part of the circle.
If you have ideas, skills, or would like to help with upcoming projects, please reach out to [email protected]. There is room at the table.
As we continue forward in 2026, we ask the Creator for steady steps and clear vision.
Moving Forward Together
2026 will be a year of connection, organization, and cultural strength. Our traditions are not relics of the past. They are living, breathing guides for today. They remind us who we are, where we come from, and how we walk in balance with one another.
May this year bring health to your homes, success to your endeavors, and unity to our Nation. May our councils be wise, our families strong, and our community rooted firmly in respect, responsibility, and shared purpose.
ᏩᏙ (Wado) and blessings for a strong and prosperous year ahead.
With respect and service,
Chief Kenn Grey Elk and
Deputy Chief Mike Wandering Wolf
and your Tribal Council
Moving Forward Together
2026 will be a year of connection, organization, and cultural strength. Our traditions are not relics of the past. They are living, breathing guides for today. They remind us who we are, where we come from, and how we walk in balance with one another.
May this year bring health to your homes, success to your endeavors, and unity to our Nation. May our councils be wise, our families strong, and our community rooted firmly in respect, responsibility, and shared purpose.
ᏩᏙ (Wado) and blessings for a strong and prosperous year ahead.
With respect and service,
Chief Kenn Grey Elk and
Deputy Chief Mike Wandering Wolf
and your Tribal Council
Karlee little hawk
|
Join us on a journey of cultural exploration, character development, and tribal connection!
Together, let's embrace our Northern Cherokee heritage and build a future filled with knowledge, courage, and unity. Let us gain confidence in our culture and traditions and develop the will to follow the teachings. During regular tribal meetings, NCN provides a youth program designed for our young native minds to explore their cultural roots. Instructed by Karlee little hawk. In the program Little Hawk focuses on the Cherokee syllabary, Cherokee words and phrases, prayer and intention, crafts, dancing, storytelling and so much more. Please bring snacks to share. Please RSVP: Not required but helps to ensure supplies! Donation and volunteer opportunities are available. |
|
BE PROUD TO SUPPORT YOUR NORTHERN CHEROKEE NATION
The Northern Cherokee Nation always appreciates your support.
If you would like to become a supporter, PayPal is available for convenience to your generous
tax-deductible donations the Northern Cherokee Nation.
If you would like to donate, the PayPal button is located on the contact tab, and scroll down and you will see the PayPal button.
Remember, the Northern Cherokee Nation is a 501c3.
This is a secure and easy way to donate and help your tribe.
Wado
The Northern Cherokee Nation always appreciates your support.
If you would like to become a supporter, PayPal is available for convenience to your generous
tax-deductible donations the Northern Cherokee Nation.
If you would like to donate, the PayPal button is located on the contact tab, and scroll down and you will see the PayPal button.
Remember, the Northern Cherokee Nation is a 501c3.
This is a secure and easy way to donate and help your tribe.
Wado
ONLY AFTER ALL THE TREES ARE CUT,
AFTER ALL THE GAME IS KILLED,
ONLY AFTER ALL THE STREAMS ARE POISONED,
ONLY THEN WILL WHITE MEN REALIZE THEY CAN'T EAT MONEY.
AFTER ALL THE GAME IS KILLED,
ONLY AFTER ALL THE STREAMS ARE POISONED,
ONLY THEN WILL WHITE MEN REALIZE THEY CAN'T EAT MONEY.
REMEMBERING OUR PAST
PRESERVING OUR CULTURE
PLANNING OUR DESTINY
PRESERVING OUR CULTURE
PLANNING OUR DESTINY
WebmasterTanya Morning Falcon
[email protected] Vertical Divider
|
Contact
|
