Journalist Association Condemns Censorship of Giduwa Cherokee News

By Cherokee 411 Staff
TAHLEQUAH, Okla. — The International Journalists Association (IJA) has issued a strong statement condemning what it describes as censorship of Giduwa Cherokee News, a Cherokee-language and Indigenous-run news outlet, amid wider concerns about press freedom and transparency in both the Cherokee Nation and the United Keetoowah Band (UKB).

The IJA cited reports that Giduwa Cherokee News has faced restricted access to press briefings and public information, calling the situation a “direct threat to press freedom and the Cherokee people’s right to independent news.”

“An Indigenous-run press is essential to sovereignty and democracy,” the statement read. “Silencing Native voices undermines transparency, accountability, and the cultural continuity of Indigenous nations.”

The situation reflects growing frustration among tribal citizens and journalists regarding transparency—particularly when it comes to electoral processes. While Cherokee Nation officials continue to allow public access to Tribal Council meetings, critics say the Nation has not been transparent about Election Commission meetings and decision-making processes that directly affect the integrity of tribal elections.

Advocates note that the UKB has faced similar criticism for limiting access to tribal meetings and withholding key information from the public. The IJA called on both governments to recommit to transparency, open media access, and protections for Native-run journalism.

“Native Nations must lead by example when it comes to freedom of the press,” the IJA stated. “The silencing of Giduwa Cherokee News is not just a local issue—it’s a warning to Indigenous journalists everywhere.”

As of press time, neither the Cherokee Nation nor the United Keetoowah Band had issued a response to the IJA’s statement.