IntroductionThe Northern Cherokee Nation is a sovereign tribal nation committed to preserving the history, culture, and future of the Cherokee people whose ancestors remained in the Midwest and Southeast during and after the Trail of Tears. Headquartered in Missouri, the Nation provides leadership, community programs, and resources for citizens across the United States.
History of the Northern Cherokee PeopleThe Northern Cherokee people trace their ancestry to families who resisted forced removal or returned to their homelands after the Trail of Tears. These resilient communities safeguarded their identity through oral traditions, family records, and cultural practices.
Key Historical Points:
Tribal Government StructureThe Northern Cherokee Nation operates under a Constitution ratified by its citizens. The government includes the Principal Chief, Deputy Chief, Tribal Council, and the Council of Elders.
Government Components:
Cultural Traditions and LanguagePreserving and revitalizing Cherokee heritage is central to the Nation's mission. Cultural programs aim to keep language, arts, and traditions alive for future generations.
Cultural Highlights:
How to Enroll:
Resources and Community SupportThe Nation provides a range of services to support its citizens across all age groups and walks of life.
Available Resources:
Get InvolvedStrengthen the Northern Cherokee Nation by staying engaged and sharing your voice.
Ways to Get Involved:
History of the Northern Cherokee PeopleThe Northern Cherokee people trace their ancestry to families who resisted forced removal or returned to their homelands after the Trail of Tears. These resilient communities safeguarded their identity through oral traditions, family records, and cultural practices.
Key Historical Points:
- Pre-removal Cherokee presence in Arkansas, Missouri, and Kansas
- Post-removal diaspora and identity preservation
- Reorganization and constitutional development in the 20th century
Tribal Government StructureThe Northern Cherokee Nation operates under a Constitution ratified by its citizens. The government includes the Principal Chief, Deputy Chief, Tribal Council, and the Council of Elders.
Government Components:
- Principal Chief: Serves as the head of state and public spokesperson
- Deputy Chief: Supports the Principal Chief and steps in as needed
- Tribal Council: A legislative body made up of elected District Representatives who propose, debate, and vote on laws and resolutions affecting the Nation
- Council of Elders: Provides cultural guidance and advisory leadership
- Constitution: The foundational document outlining tribal governance and law
- Citizenship: Determined by documented Cherokee lineage
Cultural Traditions and LanguagePreserving and revitalizing Cherokee heritage is central to the Nation's mission. Cultural programs aim to keep language, arts, and traditions alive for future generations.
Cultural Highlights:
- Cherokee Language Classes: Available at gatherings, including tribal council meetings, and open to all citizens
- Traditional Ceremonies: Including Green Corn festivals, stomp dances, and powwows
- Arts and Crafts: Beading, regalia making, and storytelling workshops
How to Enroll:
- Complete the official Enrollment Application
- Submit supporting genealogical documentation
- Send all materials to the Enrollment Committee
- Await verification and issuance of a citizenship certificate
- Make and keep a copy of your full application file for your personal records
Resources and Community SupportThe Nation provides a range of services to support its citizens across all age groups and walks of life.
Available Resources:
- Youth Programs: Leadership development and cultural education
- Veteran Recognition: Honor rolls
Get InvolvedStrengthen the Northern Cherokee Nation by staying engaged and sharing your voice.
Ways to Get Involved:
- Volunteer with tribal initiatives and community programs
- Donate to Cultural Preservation efforts
- Attend tribal events and help raise public awareness
