Independent Media: Real, Relevant, and Unfiltered
Welcome to Cherokee 411 with Cara
—a space where stories, voices, and truths from Native communities come to life.
I’m Cara Cowan Watts, and I’m proud to lead this award-winning media team dedicated to bringing you unfiltered news, uplifting stories, and authentic perspectives from Indian Country. Our mission is to celebrate Native American culture, amplify voices that deserve to be heard, and share the insights and wisdom of our leaders, change-makers, and everyday heroes.
Every story we share is a product of collaboration with Native writers, journalists, and cultural icons across Indian Country. Through
Cherokee 411, I aim to provide a platform that respects our traditions, empowers our communities, and remains true to the heart of our heritage. Our team brings years of expertise in media and storytelling, driven by a commitment to authenticity and integrity.
From weekly newsletters and blogs to our podcast, Cherokee Voices, I invite you to join us on this journey. Let’s celebrate, learn, and grow together—because our stories matter.
Thank you for being part of the Cherokee 411 community!
About Cherokee 411 News and Enter
Cherokee 411 with Cara is a vibrant digital platform dedicated to celebrating and uplifting Native American culture, lifestyle, and leadership. Our mission is to empower individuals by sharing stories that reflect the authenticity, resilience, and wisdom of Indigenous communities. Cherokee 411 with Cara sits at the intersection of Tradition, Modernity, Culture, Wellness, and Leadership, offering a unique lens into what it means to live with purpose, pride, and connection.
Each week, we curate a rich blend of insights, stories, and reflections from leaders, creators, and community members who embody the spirit of progress and cultural pride. Anchored by Cara Cowan Watts' own profound columns and experiences, Cherokee 411 with Cara not only highlights the richness of Cherokee culture but also shares important events and stories from throughout Indian Country. This is a space where readers feel Seen, Heard, and Inspired—a beacon for those who seek to honor their roots, embrace their communities, and move forward with strength and unity.
POLICIES
Cherokee 411 and Cherokee 411 with Cara serves all Cherokee people equally, regardless of location or tribal affiliation
EDITORIAL BOARD
No endorsement of political candidates.
No editorials from the paper’s reporters, editor.
No gifts accepted from, or given to, elected officials or employees of any of the Cherokee Tribal entities in an official capacity.
Exceptions where culturally appropriate.
ADVERTISING
Paid: Set rates are open to anyone for any purpose, at the discretion of the editor and/or board of directors. See advertising rates
Free: Cherokee Community programs advertising for events benefitting the Cherokee people.
CLASSIFIEDS:
Set rates, open to anyone for any purpose, at the discretion of the editor and/or board of directors.
NOTICES: weddings, anniversaries, births, deaths, obituaries Free: all information provided by Subscriber via intake forms.
Reporting
Cherokee 411 seeks to cover news in all its complexity.
No one-source stories, including both documentation and people.
No anonymous sources, except with the approval of the editor who must know the identity of the source.
Letters to the Editor
Respectful and informative to the reader. Will be published at the editorial boards discretion.
May be edited for grammar, clarity and space. 500 word limit.
See intake form