Independent Media: Real, Relevant, and Unfiltered

Your Hub for Cherokee News and Culture, Local News, and Leadership Stories from Indian Country

ᎤᎵᎮᎵᏍᏗ-Welcome

ᎠᏰᎸᏄᏛᎿᏕᎬ

What We Are About

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.

ᏣᎳᎩ ᏗᎦᏃᏣᎵᏗ

Cherokee News

Cherokee Nation Withdraws from Tri-Council Amid Sovereignty Concerns

Cherokee Nation exits Tri-Council over sovereignty issues; UKB urges unity. Get the latest on this and more Cherokee news by subscribing at joinus.cherokee411.com. ...more

Cherokee News

December 21, 20242 min read

Cherokee Nation Withdraws from Tri-Council Amid Sovereignty Concerns

Cherokee Nation Adjusts PRC Services as UKB Secures Historic Healthcare Agreement

Cherokee Nation adjusts PRC services as UKB assumes responsibility for UKB-exclusive members under a $5.6M IHS agreement. Both tribes commit to ensuring smooth healthcare transitions for affected pati... ...more

Cherokee News ,Native Health

December 17, 20242 min read

Cherokee Nation Adjusts PRC Services as UKB Secures Historic Healthcare Agreement

Tom Cole Reaffirms Commitment to Tackling the MMIW Crisis

Congressman Tom Cole reaffirms his commitment to addressing the Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women (MMIW) crisis, calling for increased resources and federal support to ensure justice and safety. ...more

Cherokee News ,Native News

December 16, 20241 min read

Tom Cole Reaffirms Commitment to Tackling the MMIW Crisis

ᏗᏂᎧᎾᏩᏗᏙᎯ ᎠᏂᏯᎥᎢ

Tribal Council

Cherokee Nation Tribal Council Meeting

November 12,2024

Resolutions

1. A resolution electing Johnny Kidwell, a member of the tribal council, to the office of Secretary of the Tribal Council

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NATIVE HEALTH

Cherokee Nation Adjusts PRC Services as UKB Secures Historic Healthcare Agreement

Cherokee Nation adjusts PRC services as UKB assumes responsibility for UKB-exclusive members under a $5.6M IHS agreement. Both tribes commit to ensuring smooth healthcare transitions for affected pati... ...more

Cherokee News ,Native Health

December 17, 20242 min read

Cherokee Nation Adjusts PRC Services as UKB Secures Historic Healthcare Agreement

Cherokee Nation Partners with CDC to Modernize Health Data Systems

The Cherokee Nation is taking a significant step forward in enhancing healthcare for its citizens by partnering with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to modernize health data syste... ...more

Native Health

December 16, 20242 min read

Cherokee Nation Partners with CDC to Modernize Health Data Systems

Expiring Federal Funding for Diabetes Program Threatens Health of Native Americans Nationwide

A federal program credited with reducing diabetes rates among Native Americans could expire at the end of the year unless Congress acts. ...more

Native Health

November 22, 20241 min read

Expiring Federal Funding for Diabetes Program Threatens Health of Native Americans Nationwide

News from Indian Country

Tom Cole Reaffirms Commitment to Tackling the MMIW Crisis

Congressman Tom Cole reaffirms his commitment to addressing the Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women (MMIW) crisis, calling for increased resources and federal support to ensure justice and safety. ...more

Cherokee News ,Native News

December 16, 20241 min read

Tom Cole Reaffirms Commitment to Tackling the MMIW Crisis

Treasury Awards $8.6 Million to Tribes to Boost Small Business Growth

The U.S. Treasury awarded $8.6M to tribes via SSBCI to boost small business growth in Indian Country, fostering entrepreneurship, economic development, and job creation in underserved tribal communiti... ...more

Native News

December 16, 20241 min read

Treasury Awards $8.6 Million to Tribes to Boost Small Business Growth

Historic Meeting at Tulsa City Hall Welcomes Tribal Chiefs

Tulsa Mayor Nichols hosted a historic meeting with Osage, Cherokee, and Muskogee Chiefs, marking the start of a co-governance model to foster collaboration, cultural preservation, and shared governanc... ...more

Cherokee News ,Native News

December 14, 20241 min read

Historic Meeting at Tulsa City Hall Welcomes Tribal Chiefs

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CULTURAL


To explore Cameron's work, visit her LinkedIn or Facebook page. These platforms showcase her creative journey and provide a way to support her meaningful projects.

Cameron Ayn Photography:

Capturing the Heart of Cherokee Culture

Cameron Ayn Photography: Capturing the Heart of Cherokee Culture

Cameron Ayn Carlson, the visionary behind Cameron Ayn Photography, beautifully intertwines artistry with Cherokee heritage in her work. Through her lens, she offers a unique and heartfelt perspective that resonates deeply with those who value culture, nature, and storytelling.

Two standout pieces from her collection are the Cherokee Blanket and her 2024 Calendar. The Cherokee Blanket is more than a functional piece—it's a woven testament to identity and belonging. Each intricate detail reflects the strength and resilience of the Cherokee people, making it a meaningful gift or a cherished addition to any home.

Meanwhile, her 2024 Calendar is a journey through seasons and stories, with each month featuring awe-inspiring photography that celebrates the natural beauty of Cherokee land and traditions. It's not just a practical way to organize your year; it’s a daily reminder of the connection between culture and nature.


Cameron Ayn’s work is a celebration of Cherokee heritage and an invitation to embrace its beauty. Whether through the warmth of her blanket or the artistry of her calendar, she inspires us to connect with the stories and landscapes that shape her people.

ᏣᎳᎩ ᏫᏗᎦᏅᏍᎩ

Tsalagi Widiganvsgi

‘Powwow Highway’ Earns Spot Among Great American Films

Powwow Highway," a 1989 film about two Northern Cheyenne men’s transformative journey, is now in the National Film Registry, honoring its cultural impact and authentic portrayal of Native American lif... ...more

Native Culture

December 19, 20242 min read

‘Powwow Highway’ Earns Spot Among Great American Films

Cherokee Nation and U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service Premiere Red Wolf Documentary

The Cherokee Nation and U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service premiered a documentary on the critically endangered red wolf, highlighting its history, conservation efforts, and partnerships to protect this ico... ...more

Native Culture ,Cherokee Culture News

December 10, 20242 min read

Cherokee Nation and U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service Premiere Red Wolf Documentary

First American Art Magazine: A Visionary Tribute to Indigenous Creativity

First American Art Magazine celebrates Indigenous artistry, bridging tradition and modernity. Founded by Cherokee Nation citizen America Meredith, it showcases Native resilience, creativity, and cultu... ...more

Native Culture ,Cherokee Culture News

December 02, 20242 min read

First American Art Magazine: A Visionary Tribute to Indigenous Creativity

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