Latest news with #TribalCouncil
Yahoo
15-07-2025
- Politics
- Yahoo
CN task force studies impact of slavery
An examination of slavery and the impact on the economy of the Cherokee Nation is the focus of a task force until February 2026. "We celebrated Juneteenth [and] in the Cherokee Nation we created a task force," said Principal Chief Chuck Hoskin Jr. "We are going to examine more closely the impact from an economic standpoint; more precisely the use of slaves to construct public buildings across the Cherokee Nation." Hoskin said at the June 14 Tribal Council meeting that this needs to be confronted, to learn the facts, and acknowledge this happened. "We need to measure to the degree we can what happened, so we have the full picture of that part of our history," Hoskin said. "And I think we will be better for it, just as we've been better for having examined other aspects of our history with slavery." Over the course of several months, concluding in February 2026, a task force will look at the issue, and even at the museum to ensure the whole of the story is being told, Hoskin said. "And I think telling the whole of the story is a very important thing to do," Hoskin said. On July 12, a celebration of the "Act of Union" was held, Hoskin said. "We focus a lot, as we should, on the annual Cherokee National Hospital, which memorializes the 1839 Constitution," Hoskin said. More emphasis has been added over the years on the Act of Union, and Hoskin said the ancestors this time of the year in 1839 were facing difficulties with political and personal division, and the trauma suffered during the forced removal. "There were certainly lots of opportunities for our ancestors to give into those things that deeply divided them, divided them to the point there was political violence right here in this capitol area and other parts of the Cherokee Nation," Hoskin said. These ancestors chose a path of determining what was in the collective interest: a shared history and culture and a lot of present concerns that demanded all of the citizens' attention, Hoskin said. "They came together on July 12, in the form of that really important instrument, the Act of Union," Hoskin said. Hoskin and Deputy Chief Bryan Warner announced the Cherokee Nation's intent to designate the Illinois Campground site where this pivotal document was signed on the tribe's Registry of Historic Places as the 17th site, as reported in an article titled, "Cherokee Nation Marks 186th Anniversary of Act of Union with Tribe's Historic Registry Designation," published in the Pryor Information Publication, July 14. "After we get the feedback from the Council and public, we will make that official designation," Hoskin said. "That site if you didn't know it, you wouldn't know it, you wouldn't see anything there that would signify what is, I think, one of the most important, if not most important, moments and places in the history of the Cherokee Nation." He said this would allow even more honor be given to the ancestors who participated in this historical moment. Five years ago, the news from the U.S. Supreme Court was the decision on McGirt v. Oklahoma. That was the most important case affecting the Nation for many generations, Hoskin said. "In fact, you would have to go to the era before our removal, to see a time in which the Supreme Court handed down a decision that was that monumental," Hoskin said. Hoskin said that since then, the Nation has been seizing opportunities that have come with the reaffirmation of the reservation, which was the following spring 2021, in which the Hogner case extended this ruling to the Cherokee Nation, further solidifying the impact of McGirt. Students in a new program through the Human Resources Department, the Cherokee Nation Internship Program, were recognized at the meeting, with students introducing themselves, announcing the department each is interning with and what college or university they are attending. In March 2024, Hoskin signed into policy the program to provide internship opportunities and tribal workforce experience for college students, as reported by a CN press release. Two veterans were honored with the Cherokee Warrior's Metal of Patriotism: Steven Leon Donnell and Stephanie Denise Caldwell. In a couple of motions to approve modifications to the budget, Tribal Councilor Candessa Tehee, District 2, declared, "by acclamation," after the motion was made, seconded and approved. "What that means is when there is a legislative act, we are supposed to do a roll call vote, but if we all vote together by acclamation, my understanding is we are all in agreement; therefore you don't have to do the roll call," Tehee said after the meeting. In the announcements, Tribal Councilor Codey Poindexter, District 8, said 20 speakers were lost last month, and in the Caddo Nation, the last speaker has died. "Out of deep respect and in recognition of a profound loss to our Nation, the Caddo Nation Tribal Administration Office will be closed on Tuesday, July 15, to honor the life and legacy of Edmond Johnson, our last fluent Caddo language speaker," stated a press release from the Caddo Nation. Johnson was a vital knowledge bearer of language language and a treasured elder, stated the release. "His passing marks an irreplaceable loss to our heritage, and we extend our deepest condolences to his family and all who mourn with us," stated the release. What's next The next Tribal Council meeting is Aug. 11, 6 p.m., at the Cherokee Nation Tribal Complex.
Buzz Feed
13-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Buzz Feed
How To Pack For Vacation Like A ‘Survivor' Contestant
Every year, Survivor fans of every age tune in to watch castaways navigate challenges, unbearable sleeping conditions, and emotional meltdowns over Applebee's — but now, something wild is happening to mark the show's 50th season. CBS just announced that during Survivor 50: In the Hands of the Fans viewers will be able to vote and choose the season's twists. If it couldn't get any more iconic, some past-season players will be returning — including White Lotus creator Mike White. (Long before the murder mystery show came into existence, he was an underestimated competitor on the David vs. Goliath season.) If you're dreaming of forging your own Survivor‑style escapade — whether that's exploring rugged jungles, sleeping on the beach, or camping off-grid — packing smart is crucial. Ahead, I'm rounding up some essential gear based on the moments that define the show. An officially licensed Survivor hat For many, the show becomes part of their personality in the best way — so show off your Survivor obsession with the officially licensed version of Jeff Probst's hat. It could protect you from sun, bugs, and bad hair days alike. Plus, wearing the iconic 'Outwit, Outplay, Outlast' version gives your trip big main character energy. Just don't become the villain!Get it from Amazon for $44.95 (available in four colors). A rice cooker for paying homage to the show's most essential dish Rice is a precious commodity – and a topic of heated debate – on 'Survivor.' (And we're not talking about the fluffy, seasoned kind.) If you're channeling your inner castaway but still want your meals to be edible, this compact rice cooker gets the job done. It makes perfect rice with zero guesswork, and even steams veggies or protein while it cooks, so you can upgrade your wilderness ration into a real meal. Get it from Amazon for $35.43. Some bug repellent wipes, even if you're trying to rough it Even if you want to collect bug bites like a rite of passage, it's probably a good idea to try and combat mosquitoes. These towelettes are your secret weapon for fending off jungle insects without carrying a bulky spray can. Individually wrapped and easy to stash in any bag or pocket, they're perfect for hikes and beach treks. Pro tip: Cover your feet if you're dining outdoors for dinner or you might get back to your room covered in them from Amazon for $5.25. A personality shirt for standing out at Tribal Council Even if you're off somewhere on a remote island, you still need a statement piece. What would you wear to Tribal Council in the hopes that Jeff Probst calls on you first? Not only is this button-down eye catching — it's also built for the adventure. Built with two‑way stretch nylon/spandex, the shirt is designed to move with you while building a shelter or enduring immunity challenges without being clingy. The fabric is equipped with UPF 50+ sun protection and there's even a zippered chest pocket so you won't lose anything in the it from REI Co-op for $34.93+ (originally $49.95; available in men's sizes S–XXXL and five colors). A filtered water bottle so you don't get too thirsty Staying hydrated is the name of the game if you're going to focus on winning that million dollars. This Brita water bottle comes with a built-in filter that reduces chlorine and improves taste, so even your campground tap water can feel like a luxury reward. It's leak-proof, lightweight, and fits snugly in backpack side pockets — ideal for long hikes, beach treks, or looking for idols through the it from Amazon for $13.79+ (available in two sizes and four colors). A quick dry towel On Survivor, you're either soaked from the ocean or drenched in sweat – yet somehow, no one ever has a towel. This quick-dry microfiber option is super absorbent, lightweight, and rolls down small enough to fit in even the most minimalist pack. Use it after a swim in the ocean, getting caught in a downpour, or to brush sand off your gear without carrying half the beach with you. It's designed to dry fast so you're not hauling around a soggy rag, which feels like a win when you're living your best castaway it from Amazon for $8.49+ (available in five styles and multi-packs). Some dry shampoo Survivor contestants never get a fresh shower — and by day 10, a true island glow (greasy roots and and an oily scalp) is the norm. This dry shampoo uses rice and barley starches to soak up oil and instantly refresh your hair without needing water or leaving a white residue. Use it at the end of a long, sweaty challenge day when you need to look halfway decent at a reward dinner. Get a three-pack from Amazon for $27.99. A fire starter kit If you're a new fan of the show or have been watching since day one, you know that making fire is a crucial part of the penultimate Tribal Council, where the final players vie for the million dollar prize. If you're on a real-life a camping trip deep in the wilderness, this fire starter kit will be a lifesaver. The heavy-duty paracord handle is designed to ensure a solid grip, even when everything else is drenched, and the striker promises to deliver a shower of 5,500°F sparks so hot they'll ignite damp tinder in it from Amazon for $11.16. A buff – the show's most recognizable accessory Whether it's a headband or protection for the wrist or neck, buffs are worn in a variety of ways on the show. This buff offers UPF 50+ sun protection so you don't end up with sunburnt, peeling skin by day 3. Made of cooling, moisture-wicking fabric, it can keep sweat out of your eyes during muddy obstacle runs and promises to dry fast enough so that it won't totally smell foul. Get it from Amazon for $13.45+ (available in 10 styles). A board game to test your survival instincts Think you have what it takes to outwit, outplay, and outlast your friends? 'Survivor: The Game' lets you test your strategic skills and alliances without actually sleeping in the rain or eating bugs. This card game is packed with bluffing, backstabbing, and last-minute immunity saves — just like the real show. It's the perfect game to throw in your backpack for any group trip. Get it from Amazon for $15.49. A sleeping upgrade for some real-life comfort Just because you're trying to emulate that Survivor lifestyle, it doesn't mean that you actually need to sleep on hard bamboo every night – this mummy-style sleeping bag has your back. It comes in six size options, so whether you're tall and lanky or a short king, you'll get a tailored, cozy fit all night long. And if the forecast calls for overnight rain, don't worry, because this synthetic insulation is designed to keep you it from REI Co-op for $99.95 (available in two colors).
The Hindu
30-06-2025
- Politics
- The Hindu
Tribals in Great Nicobar not against development but lack info about mega project: NCST member
Tribal communities in Great Nicobar are not opposed to development but lack sufficient information about a proposed mega infrastructure project on the island, National Commission for Scheduled Tribes (NCST) member Asha Lakra has said. The project, titled Holistic Development of Great Nicobar, involves the construction of a transshipment port, an international airport, a township and a power plant over more than 160 sq. km of land. This includes around 130 sq. km of pristine forest inhabited by the Nicobarese, a Scheduled Tribe (ST), and the Shompens, a Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Group (PVTG), whose population is estimated to be between 200 and 300. In an interview with PTI, Ms. Lakra said she led an NCST team to the Andaman and Nicobar Islands from June 5 to 7 to review the issues faced by the tribal communities. She said the Commission held a detailed meeting with representatives of all tribal groups, including the Great Andamanese, Jarawa, Nicobarese and Shompens. "We met everyone.... We also had talks with both Shompen and Nicobarese people living on Great Nicobar Island. Most of the people have no idea about the project. They are busy with their own lives.... They demand more ferries to travel between islands," Lakra said. Asked about her interaction with the residents of Great Nicobar, she said, "They have no other problems. All they need is development.... Better transport, education and health facilities. This is what they told us. Everyone, barring the Sentinelese, said the same thing. They are in favour of development." "They want employment and their financial situation to improve," Ms. Lakra added. She, however, stressed the need for a stakeholders' meeting with educated people from the island regarding "such a big project" and said all necessary information should be shared with them. However, Barnabas Manju, chairman of the Little and Great Nicobar Tribal Council, told PTI over the phone that the council was not invited to the meeting and came to know about it through the local media. The Council had written to the Union Environment Ministry and the Andaman and Nicobar administration in November 2022, withdrawing the no-objection certificate (NOC) it issued in August that year for the denotification of 84.1 sq. km of tribal reserve and the diversion of 130 sq. km of forest for the project. It alleged that crucial information was withheld while seeking the NOC. The Tribal Council had expressed shock on learning that parts of their pre-tsunami villages would be "denotified and diverted" under the project. During a public hearing held at Campbell Bay in January 2021, the Council's chairman had said that although they support the development plan, "we want to go back to our ancestral villages". Tribal Councils in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands are statutory bodies established under the Andaman and Nicobar Islands (Tribal Councils) Regulation, 2009. They have limited advisory and executive powers, unlike autonomous councils under the Sixth Schedule of the Constitution, which have legislative, executive and limited judicial powers and enjoy greater autonomy. Around 853 sq. km of the island's total 910-sq. km area is designated as a tribal reserve under the Andaman and Nicobar (Protection of Aboriginal Tribes) Regulation, 1956. In tribal reserves, the tribal communities own the land and have full rights to use it for their daily needs. However, transferring, acquiring or selling land in these areas is strictly prohibited. Asked whether the commission looked into complaints of Forest Rights Act (FRA) violations related to the project, Ms. Lakra said, "The only kind of FRA violations that has been reported involves non-tribal outsiders, who come for construction work, marry ST women and settle on tribal land." This allows non-tribals to gain de-facto control over land protected under the FRA, she added. In April 2023, the NCST issued a notice to the Andaman and Nicobar administration, seeking "facts and an action-taken report" on allegations that the mega project would violate the constitutional mandate and "adversely impact" the lives of local tribals. Ms. Lakra said the Commission would check whether a response has been received. At a media interaction earlier this month, Union Tribal Affairs Minister Jual Oram said his Ministry is examining objections raised by tribal communities regarding the proposed project. "Yes, it is under examination. I had also answered a question [in this regard] in Parliament. We are currently examining the documents they have submitted. After that, we will decide the course of action," he had said, replying to a question. On further questioning about what the Ministry seeks to ascertain, Mr. Oram had said, "First, we need to determine whether the gram sabha (tribal council in this case) was held, what the gram sabha recommended and whether there have been any violations."
CBC
26-06-2025
- Politics
- CBC
Sask. First Nations leaders back recently removed RCMP commanding officer
The Federation of Sovereign Indigenous Nations (FSIN) is demanding answers after the sudden removal of Rhonda Blackmore as commanding officer of Saskatchewan's RCMP F Division. Blackmore, a 30-year RCMP veteran who took the assistant commissioner job in April 2021, was relieved of her duties on June 3. In an emailed statement that day, Blackmore said the decision was "a result of anonymous complaints." She has not commented publicly on her removal since. "We firmly stand with Assistant Commissioner Blackmore," Tribal Chief Jeremy Fourhorns of the File Hills Qu'Appelle Tribal Council said in a joint statement from the FSIN. "Her time as F Division CO has been defined by unwavering integrity, accountability, and a dedication to First Nation communities." Executive members and several tribal councils from the FSIN, which represents 74 First Nations in Saskatchewan, praised Blackmore's commitment to community policing and highlighted her leadership during key crises, including the 2022 mass killings on James Smith Cree Nation. They also pointed to her efforts to improve Indigenous recruitment, foster trust through working agreements with communities and push for systemic reform within the RCMP. "Rhonda showed strong leadership during a time of crisis for James Smith," Prince Albert Grand Council Grand Chief Brian Hardlotte said in the FSIN statement. "She, along with her team, worked hard to develop trust through her compassion and understanding." The FSIN said a lack of public explanation and absence of consultation for Blackmore's removal has rattled confidence in the RCMP's internal processes. The FSIN made three demands: The immediate reinstatement of Blackmore pending a transparent external investigation. The establishment of independent oversight for RCMP disciplinary actions, particularly regarding anonymous complaints. A formal commitment to protect RCMP officers who advocate for reform and community safety. FSIN Chief Bobby Cameron also urged the Office of the Public Sector Integrity Commissioner to investigate what he describes as the potential misuse of the RCMP's whistleblower policy. "We want to ensure justice is done — for Rhonda Blackmore, for the integrity of the RCMP, and for First Nations people across Saskatchewan," Cameron said. RCMP responded with a statement. "The RCMP values its relationship with the Federation of Sovereign Indigenous Nations and First Nations leadership, and is fully committed to community policing and accountability," the statement said. It added that the appointment of an interim commanding officer "will have no impact on front-line policing operations nor the safety and security of Indigenous communities during this interim period." The RCMP said it is confident that F Division officers will continue to serve Indigenous communities with dedication and professionalism.
Yahoo
09-06-2025
- Politics
- Yahoo
Cherokee Nation General Election sees local incumbents re-elected to Council
TAHLEQUAH, Okla. — Six incumbents were re-elected to the Council of the Cherokee Nation during the tribe's General Election on Saturday. The incumbents re-elected include Candessa Tehee of District 2, Joshua Sam of District 7, Melvina Shotpouch of District 10, Kendra McGeady of District 11, Danny Callison of District 15, and at-large Councilor Johnny Jack Kidwell. Newcomer Ashley Grant was also elected to District 5. The Cherokee Nation Election Commission is set to meet on Monday to certify the results of the 2025 General Election, which unofficially show 7,714 votes. Newly elected and re-elected Tribal Councilors will be sworn in on August 14. McGeady won the District 11 race with 614 votes, or more than 58%. 'My heart is overflowing with gratitude to all Cherokees in District 11, my family and my dedicated volunteers. I am honored and humbled that you have chosen me to represent you.' Kendra McGeady, District 11 McGeady was appointed to the Tribal Council almost a year ago. 'Representing District 11 is a special responsibility,' said McGeady. 'Northeast Oklahoma holds a special place in the hearts of the Cherokee Nation. As our Nation expands services to Cherokees throughout District 11, I will continue to work to ensure our communities have access to transportation, education funding, and better access to quality health care, close to home. Shotpouch received 376 votes for the District 10 race, more than 70%. 'I am so grateful to have been re-elected to serve for another term on the Cherokee Nation Tribal Council,' said Shotpouch. 'Thank you to everyone who supported and believed in me throughout this journey.' 'Your trust and encouragement mean everything, and I will continue to work hard every day on behalf of our citizens. I will never stop being a strong voice for our communities, protecting our sovereignty, and investing in our culture, language, and future.' Melvina Shotpouch, District 10 'This victory belongs to all of us. Wado for the opportunity to serve – you have my deepest gratitude, and I look forward to working for you. Together we will build a stronger Cherokee Nation,' said Shotpouch. In Districts 4 and 9 races, no candidate received the required 50% plus one vote, so voters in those districts will select among the top candidates from the General Election results for a runoff to be held July 26. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
