On the 70th annual Cherokee National Holiday, Cherokee Nation stood firm in its commitment to reconciliation for Cherokee Freedmen and their descendants.
Cherokee history is full of rich moments and great triumphs. Throughout history, the Cherokee people have acted collectively to overcome tragedy, work through trauma, and build a great nation.
A great nation is strong enough to tell its whole story – including the unpleasant parts of its history dealing with racism – Cherokee Nation Principal Chief Chuck Hoskin Jr. said in announcing a new exhibit honoring the history of the Cherokee Freedmen.
<p>Until recently, the Cherokee National History Museum in Oklahoma did not acknowledge slave ownership by tribal members or the efforts of the descendants of the enslaved to claim tribal membership. </p>