Muscogee Nation brings lawsuit against Alabama tribe back to federal court
The Muscogee Nation is appearing before a federal appeals court in Georgia demanding accountability from another tribe in Alabama.
KOSU | By Katie Hallum
The Muscogee Nation first filed a lawsuit against the Poarch Band of Creek Indians over their handling of sacred land in 2012. They are now asking for the suit to be reinstated before the Eleventh Circuit Court of Appeals after a judge dismissed it in 2021.
The area at the heart of the lawsuit is known as Oce Vpofv or Hickory Ground Tribal Town located in Alabama. It contains human remains and funerary objects belonging to the Muscogee Nation and was once their last tribal capital.
Muscogee Nation citizens were forcibly relocated to present-day Northeast Oklahoma between 1827 and 1838.
The Poarch Band of Creek Indians is a group of Muscogee descendants who remained in Alabama within a separate settlement and acquired Oce Vpofv in 1980 with a 20-year-long protective covenant.
When the covenant expired in 2000, the Poarch Band of Creek Indians and archaeologists with Auburn University removed 57 sets of human remains and thousands of funerary and cultural objects in order to build a casino and resort in the area.
Muscogee officials say the Poarch Band did not notify them until after the excavation, and the removed objects and remains were being stored in a manner that caused damage to the items. Additionally, many remains and items were not excavated and are believed to have been destroyed during construction.
In 2006, the Muscogee Nation engaged in discussions with the Poarch Band of Indians to halt further excavations, return the cultural items and rebury the remains.
Muscogee Nation officials say their efforts failed, and in 2012 the Poarch moved forward with construction and reburied the items and remains in a separate location.
Muscogee spokesman Jason Salsman said the lawsuit is about justice for their ancestors.
“Fifty-seven graves were dug up. And for what? A casino,” he said. “When we went out to see it during construction, some people were physically sick at the destroyed site — all for a casino. That's our ‘why’ for fighting this.”
The Muscogee Nation claims the Poarch are looking for monetary gain and have never lived in the area. The Poarch disagree, saying they have a historical and ancestral connection to the land.
In an interview with the Montgomery Advertiser in 2012, Robert McGhee, who was then a member of the Poarch Band tribal council, told the newspaper that the Poarch Band, “value[s] our heritage and respect our ancestors.”
“We have taken great care to honor history and preserve the past while ensuring the future for our tribe,” he wrote in a response e-mailed to the paper at the time. “It is unfortunate that neither the issue nor our response to it was portrayed accurately, but we understand that these centuries-old wounds are deep and the hurt that resulted from tribes being forcibly removed from the Southeast still remains.”
Oral arguments are set to be heard Wednesday morning.
Native Entertainers Zahn McClarnon and Tatanka Means join the Warrior Up to Vote Rally on Sept. 30
Warrior Up to Vote Rally, Tribal Sovereignty Summit and Candidate Forum part of a two-week-long, statewide mobilization effort by United Indian Nations of Oklahoma
TULSA, Oklahoma—Native entertainers Zahn McClarnon and Tatanka Means have been announced as special guests at the Warrior Up to Vote Rally on Sept. 30 at River Spirit Casino Resort in Tulsa. Both are widely recognized in Indian Country for their activism and contributions to Native representation in the entertainment industry.
The Warrior Up to Vote Rally on Sept. 30 is a full day of activities promoting the Native vote, beginning with a Sovereignty 101 Summit in the morning, followed by a candidate forum in the afternoon. The day ends with a rally featuring special guests McClarnon and Means, two of the most recognizable figures in Native media today. UINO's efforts are pivotal as the group seeks to inspire Native communities across Oklahoma to register and vote for pro-tribal sovereignty issues.
McClarnon and Means' participation in the Warrior Up to Vote Rally comes at a crucial time, as the state of Oklahoma recently purged more than 450,000 registrations from its voter rolls during "routine maintenance" conducted every other year under state law. With 2.38 million voter registrations on file, this year's purge represented nearly 20 percent of those registrations. The most significant portion, almost 195,000, consisted of individuals who had not voted in at least four consecutive general election cycles, typically spanning eight years. The deadline to register for the Nov. 5 general election is Oct. 11. This means citizens who were removed from the rolls, have never been registered or need to update their information have approximately two weeks to register, renew, or update their voter status in time to vote in the November general election.
Oklahoma's biennial practice of purging voter rolls reinforces the urgent need for Native communities to check their voter registration. The Warrior Up to Vote Rally will address this issue head-on, providing motivation and resources to boost voter participation.
"We cannot afford to have our voices silenced by bureaucratic processes," said Ben Barnes, UINO Chairperson and Chief of the Shawnee Tribe. "The recent voter purge in Oklahoma is alarming, but it's a stark reminder of how critical it is for Native people to ensure they are registered voters. Our sovereignty, our representation, and our futures are at stake. We must stand up, united as Natives, and Warrior Up to Vote."
The second biannual Warrior Up to Vote event is an unprecedented statewide initiative to increase voter registration among Native Americans in Oklahoma. Oklahoma ranks 50th in voter participation and registration, and Native Americans in the United States have some of the country's lowest voter registration and turnout rates. With tribal citizens comprising 13 percent of Oklahoma's population, Warrior Up to Vote aims to change that among Oklahoma's 38 federally recognized tribes.
"Native American representation in media is more prominent than ever, with films like Killers of the Flower Moon and television shows like Reservation Dogs and Dark Winds. We hope bringing performers like Zahn McClarnon and Tatanka Means to our September 30 voter registration rally and candidate forum will capture the attention of our Tribal communities," said Margo Gray (Osage), Executive Director of UINO. "We're willing to do whatever it takes to get Natives of all ages and backgrounds to our rally to register to vote and hear the candidates' positions on the issues."
UINO received a grant from the National Congress of American Indians (NCAI), which helps UINO educate and increase Native American voting. UINO's Warrior Up to Vote Tour kicked off with the support of nine tribes in Miami, Oklahoma, on Sept. 23. The tour continues with stops throughout Oklahoma's Tribal nations through Oct. 5. With the support of tribal leaders, UINO is setting up informational booths at tribal headquarters, health centers and other tribal facilities.
By registering Native American voters, UINO will empower tribal communities in Oklahoma to influence critical policy issues in Indian Country, such as economic development, criminal justice, health care, and education.
In addition to the voter registration drive, UINO will host additional programming in conjunction with the Sept. 30 Warrior Up to Vote Rally. Tribal leaders, national Tribal organizations and legal scholars are scheduled as featured speakers at a Tribal Sovereignty 101 Summit the morning of Sept. 30 at River Spirit Casino Resort in Tulsa. A candidates forum featuring municipal, state, and federal candidates will follow in the afternoon. The Warrior Up to Vote Rally caps the day off with Zahn McClarnon and Tatanka Means from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m.
UINO's efforts to register tribal citizens to vote are nonpartisan, but candidates' positions on tribal sovereignty and issues critical to Indian Country are of interest. Candidates at all levels of government are welcome to register for the forum and may RSVP using this link.
The entire two-week tour and schedule of events ends in Ada on Oct. 5 at the Chickasaw Nation Festival.
Key Tour Dates and Events:
- Sept. 23-October 5, 2024: Warrior Up to Vote Tour stops at Tribal complexes, headquarters, health centers and other Tribal facilities across Oklahoma. A full schedule is attached*.
- Sept. 30, 2024: Tribal Sovereignty 101 and Candidates Forum at River Spirit Casino Resort Ballroom, Tulsa, OK (9 a.m. to 4 p.m.), followed by the Warrior Up to Vote Rally (5 p.m. to 7 p.m.) with special guests Zahn McClarnon and Tatanka Means, live entertainment, and DJ Chance Rush.
- Oct. 3, 2024: Oklahoma City Registration Drive at Songbird Plaza and Hill Pavilion, Oklahoma City. Special guests and entertainment will provide a backdrop for celebrating Tribal sovereignty and the power of the vote.
- *Follow United Indian Nations of Oklahoma on X (@IndianNationsOK) as specific times/locations are announce
Choctaw Nation partners with city of Garvin on $77,000 park project
Funds will assist in updates to basketball court, installing a walking track, updating the pavilion, fencing and more
GARVIN, Okla. - The Choctaw Nation Development Fund has partnered with the city of Garvin, awarding funds of $57,976 to assist with upgrades to the local city park. This partnership is part of a $77,302 project that will enhance the park’s facilities, making it a safer and more enjoyable space for the community.
The City of Garvin is contributing $19,326 to the project, which includes the renovation of the basketball court, installation of new basketball goals and pavilion improvements. Additional enhancements include new fencing, a 4,000 square foot walking trail, benches, picnic tables, grills and trash receptacles.
“Receiving this contribution from Choctaw Nation is going to allow us to update our park to make it a better resource for the kids in our community,” Ashlei Jobe, mayor of Garvin, said. “Hopefully with the new updates, we’ll be able to utilize the park for more outreach and community gatherings.”
Jobe said the park is frequented by kids of all ages, but with a cracking basketball court and lack of fencing, there are safety concerns. With the updates, which she hopes to have completed by the end of the year, Jobe wants to create a safe environment where all parents feel comfortable sending their kids.
“We are always thrilled to see communities utilize the Choctaw Nation Development Fund for projects that serve the greater public,” Angel Rowland, Choctaw Nation Development Fund manager, said. “Parks are integral to the sense of community in small towns, and we hope to see the park in Garvin become the gathering place for their community for years to come.”
WinStar World Casino and Resort’s Lucas Oil Live closes 2024 season with music legends and Christmas Symphony
THACKERVILLE, Okla. – WinStar World Casino and Resort officials announced the entertainment lineup at Lucas Oil Live to complete its 2024 season.
Renowned icons of folk, soul and rock, and today’s award-winning music superstars round out 2024 at WinStar’s 6,500-seat Lucas Oil Live venue. The line-up also features Sarah Brightman’s Christmas Symphony.
Upcoming artists at Lucas Oil Live include:
Jewel and Melissa Etheridge – 8 p.m., Friday, October 4
Experience two of the world’s most renowned folk stars in one evening.
Hailing from Payson, Utah, singer-songwriter Jewel is easily one of the most recognizable names in American alternative music. Having sold over 30 million albums worldwide and earned four Grammy Awards, Jewel’s resonance is as undeniable as her robust catalog. Anthems like “You Were Meant for Me,” “Standing Still,” and “Foolish Games” defined the turn of the century with incredible acoustic melodies combined with cutting lyrical content.
Melissa Etheridge has not only been a driving force on the female folk scene but has also become a household name for her candid lyrics, smoky vocals, and strong songwriting. Since 1985, this American icon has earned two Grammy Awards, five ASCAP Pop Music Awards and even an Academy Award for Best Original Song “I Need to Wake Up” from the documentary An Inconvenient Truth. Her other hits, including “Come to My Window” and “Like the Way I Do,” have been forever etched in the canon of modern folk rock.
Ludacris with Tiffany Haddish – 8 p.m., Friday, Oct. 11
See two of entertainment’s most celebrated stars, Ludacris and Tiffany Haddish, under one dynamic bill.
With one of the most energetic voices in hip-hop music, Ludacris has sold more than 24 million albums worldwide. Hits like “Stand Up,” “Get Back,” Money Maker” and “My Chick Bad” have defined the Dirty South rap scene since the early 2000s and made him a staple in modern American pop culture.
Known for her infectious standup comedy and roles in movies, including Like a Boss, Night School and Girls Trip, Tiffany Haddish has become one of the most recognizable talents in today’s comedy world. In 2021, this Los Angeles-based legend secured her legacy as one of the great comics of our time after winning a Grammy for her comedy album Black Mitzvah.
Patti LaBelle & Gladys Knight – 7 p.m., Saturday, October 12
Don’t miss the chance to catch two of the world’s most influential soul acts as both Patti LaBelle and Gladys Knight create unforgettable memories.
Known as the “Godmother of Soul,” Patti LaBelle has enchanted audiences with a mix of R&B, pop standards and spiritual sonnets since breaking out in 1960. Throughout her illustrious career, this soul legend has earned multiple Grammy awards and was inducted into the Grammy Hall of Fame in 2003. Her hits, including “Lady Marmalade,” “If You Asked Me To” and “Feels Like Another One,” have become genre staples, helping secure her status as an industry icon.
Hailed as the “Empress of Soul,” Gladys Knight is perhaps one of the most recognized voices across genres of R&B, soul, pop and gospel. Having received a collection of seven Grammy awards and recorded numerous number-one Billboard Hot 100 songs, including “Midnight Train to Georgia” and “That’s What Friends Are For,” this irrefutable talent has forged a legacy that will forever be lauded in the canon of American music.
Juanes – 8 p.m., Friday, October 25
One of the most recognizable Colombian artists of all time, Juanes has captured audiences worldwide since debuting as part of the group Ekhymosis in 1988. Through his impressive career, this artist has won 26 Latin Grammy awards and four Grammy Awards, including Best Latin Rock and Alternative Album for his 2024 release Vida Cotidiana. With influences ranging from The Beatles to Metallica, dynamic arrangements and diverse aesthetics define the 10 award-winning solo albums this prolific artist has produced. Songs like “Fíjate Bien”, “A Dios le Pido” and “Besos En Guerra,” have become anthems across the alternative Latin music dial.
Thomas Rhett – 8:00 p.m., Saturday, October 26
With 21 number-one singles, 15 billion streams and some of the most memorable songs in modern country music, Thomas Rhett has stormed the genre with a distinct brand of down-home country music. His hit singles, including “It Goes Like This,” “Die a Happy Man” and “Make Me Wanna,” have earned him prestigious awards and nominations across the industry. In fact, he was awarded Male Artist of The Year at the 2021 Academy of Country Music Awards.
ZZ Top – 8 p.m., Friday, November 8
From Houston, Texas, ZZ Top is one of the most influential and innovative southern rock bands of all time. With 15 studio albums and a string of hit songs, including “Sharp Dressed Man,” “Tush” and “La Grange,” this legendary American act is as prolific as it is profound. In 2004, the band was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, securing its legacy as an essential component of contemporary music culture.
Jelly Roll, with special guest ERNEST – 7 p.m., Friday, November 15 – SOLD OUT
The 6-time CMT Award Winner and 2023 CMA New Artist of the Year, from Nashville, Tennessee, Jelly Roll, scored his first Billboard Hot 100 hit in 2022 with the country-rock crossover single “Son of a Sinner” from his major-label debut album Ballads of the Broken. The rapper-turned-country star blends hip-hop stylings with country vocals on ballads like 2023’s “Save Me” and cathartic anthems like 2023’s “NEED A FAVOR,” off his country music debut WHITSITTCHAPEL. At the 2024 Grammy Awards, Jelly Roll was nominated for Best New Artist and Best Country Duo/Group Performance for “Save Me.”
Sarah Brightman – A Christmas Symphony – 7:30 p.m., Friday, November 29
In celebration of the most wonderful time of year, the world’s biggest-selling soprano and legendary GRAMMY®️ Award-nominated artist Sarah Brightman returns with her “A Christmas Symphony” tour this November and December! Accompanied by orchestra, choir and special guests, this magical holiday show will feature Sarah performing many of her holiday classics and greatest hits. “A Christmas Symphony” is an unforgettable Christmas spectacle during the most wonderful time of the year.
To add a little extra ‘holiday frosting,’ join Sarah’s VIP “Winter Wonderland” for an incredible Ultimate Experience! With three amazing VIP packages available, there is something for everyone!
Maren Morris – 8 p.m., Saturday, December 14
From Arlington, Texas, Maren Morris has been widely received as one of the leading voices in modern music. Armed with incredible vocal stylings and serious songwriting chops, this undeniable talent has won a Grammy Award as well as other top industry accolades. Boasting an array of Billboard’s most celebrated hits, including “My Church,” “The Middle” and “The Bones,” this artist has won over audiences from across the globe. Most recently, Maren shared The Bridge, an EP featuring two new songs “The Tree” and “Get the Hell Out of Here” and played a series of sold-out fan club shows to celebrate.
Pepe Aguilar – 8 p.m., Friday, December 20
From San Antonio, Texas, Pepe Aguilar is an unmistakable presence in the Latin music scene. Known for his innovative fusion of traditional Mexican music with contemporary elements, this iconic artist has won audiences the world over for hits including “Prometiste,” “Tu Sangre En Mi Cuerpo”, and “Por Mujeres Como Tú” with 254 million views on YouTube. Selling over 15 million records worldwide, Aguilar not only has his own star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame but was also the first Mexican artist to have an exhibit at the Grammy Museum.
Miranda Lambert – 8 p.m., Saturday, December 28
From Longview, Texas, Miranda Lambert is without question one of the most influential artists to ever ascend the modern country music charts. Since releasing her debut self-titled album in 2001, Lambert has received accolades across some of the industry’s most respected academies. Having won three Grammy Awards and an astounding 35 Academy of Country Music Awards, it’s safe to say that this Platinum-certified Nashville powerhouse has achieved premier status in her genre.
