I would like to thank everyone who came out to celebrate with us this past Saturday for our Powwow. We were truly blessed with beautiful weather, and I thank Creator for gifting us such a perfect day to come together as one Nation.
This year’s gathering filled our grounds — and our hearts — with incredible positive energy. The laughter, songs, drumming, and friendship created a powerful sense of renewal that will carry us forward. The spirit of our people shone brightly, and it was felt in every handshake, every smile, and every step of the dance.
I am so grateful to all who worked hard to make this event possible, especially those who set up demonstration booths and shared their time, talents, and teachings. You helped create an atmosphere where learning, tradition, and community could thrive.
A special thank you to our Northern Cherokee Nation family who joined us and participated, and to our family from Hawaii, Dr. David Flying Eagles, David Wind Horse, and their families, for traveling home to be with us. Your presence is always a blessing and Brings joy to our celebration.
From my heart, I also want to share how much it means to have our beloved singer Johnny and his family back with us. Your voices and your spirit lifted our Powwow to an even higher place of celebration and connection.
Thank you all for your prayers, your love, and your support for our Nation. Together, we are building a future filled with strength, pride, and unity. I am honored to walk this path with each of you.
With respect and gratitude,
Principal Chief Kenn Grey Elk
Northern Cherokee Nation
This year’s gathering filled our grounds — and our hearts — with incredible positive energy. The laughter, songs, drumming, and friendship created a powerful sense of renewal that will carry us forward. The spirit of our people shone brightly, and it was felt in every handshake, every smile, and every step of the dance.
I am so grateful to all who worked hard to make this event possible, especially those who set up demonstration booths and shared their time, talents, and teachings. You helped create an atmosphere where learning, tradition, and community could thrive.
A special thank you to our Northern Cherokee Nation family who joined us and participated, and to our family from Hawaii, Dr. David Flying Eagles, David Wind Horse, and their families, for traveling home to be with us. Your presence is always a blessing and Brings joy to our celebration.
From my heart, I also want to share how much it means to have our beloved singer Johnny and his family back with us. Your voices and your spirit lifted our Powwow to an even higher place of celebration and connection.
Thank you all for your prayers, your love, and your support for our Nation. Together, we are building a future filled with strength, pride, and unity. I am honored to walk this path with each of you.
With respect and gratitude,
Principal Chief Kenn Grey Elk
Northern Cherokee Nation
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
