Cherokee Nation Withdraws from Tri-Council Amid Sovereignty Concerns

The Cherokee Nation has formally announced its withdrawal from the Tri-Council, a collaborative assembly historically aimed at fostering unity among the three federally recognized Cherokee tribes: the Cherokee Nation (CN), the United Keetoowah Band of Cherokee Indians (UKB), and the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians (EBCI).

The decision, approved by the Cherokee Nation Council, comes amid concerns about the Tri-Council's purpose and direction. Cherokee Nation Council Speaker Mike Shambaugh explained the reasoning behind the withdrawal:

“But over time, the gatherings have become a platform for attack against the Cherokee Nation, its sovereignty, and even its name, often cited as ‘Cherokee Nation of Oklahoma’ by the UKB,” Shambaugh said.

He described the tension at recent meetings, recalling an instance in North Carolina:
“It’s difficult to sit there meeting after meeting and get into it. Back when we were in North Carolina … we knew they were going to attack our treaty rights, and they did. Every single time, we have to defend ourselves. Tri-Council’s not for that. Tri-Council is a place where we find common ground, where we work together for the betterment of the three of us.”

The approved resolution states that the Tri-Council no longer achieves its “legitimate objectives” and instead “serves as a forum for the UKB to attack the sovereignty of the Cherokee Nation” and “falsely claim rights under Cherokee treaties.”

United Keetoowah Band's Perspective

In response, the United Keetoowah Band expressed disappointment over the Cherokee Nation's decision. UKB Chief Joe Bunch highlighted the importance of unity among the Cherokee tribes and expressed hope that future opportunities for collaboration would arise.

This development underscores the ongoing complexities of intertribal relations and raises questions about the future of collaborative efforts among the Cherokee tribes.

For more updates on Cherokee news, subscribe to the Cherokee 411 Newsletter at joinus.cherokee411.com.

Image source: ICT

Original source: Cherokee Pheonix