VINITA, Okla. — Learn more about the history and legacy of Cherokee Freedmen on Feb. 21 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. in a special program at the Cherokee Nation Anna Mitchell Cultural & Welcome Center.
The day’s events will feature a panel discussion focused on the history of Cherokee Freedmen and the long fight they endured to take back their treaty-protected right to Cherokee Nation citizenship.
Guests will hear from members of the Cherokee Freedmen History Project Committee, including Cherokee Nation Freedmen Community Liaison Melissa Payne, as well as special remarks from Cherokee Nation Principal Chief Chuck Hoskin Jr.
“Although a dark time in the history of the Cherokee Nation, the Cherokee Freedmen story is one that must be shared regularly, both inside the Cherokee Nation and beyond,” said Chief Hoskin. “It is a wonderful opportunity to hear from this committee that has spent years dedicated to understanding Cherokee Freedmen history and enhancing how those voices are represented within the Cherokee story.”
A short reception will follow with light snacks and refreshments and the opportunity to experience live music and hear spoken word poetry from artist Cinda Rose.
Immediately following the reception, Cherokee Nation will host a special Cherokee Freedmen genealogy talk with Senior Genealogist Gene Norris and Mark Harrison, a member of the Cherokee Freedmen Art and History Project Committee.
The day’s programming complements the “We are Cherokee: Cherokee Freedmen and the Right to Citizenship” exhibit currently on display.
The exhibit is presented as part of the Cherokee Freedmen Art and History Project initiative, established by Chief Hoskin, which seeks materials and stories to broaden Cherokee Nation’s understanding of the Cherokee Freedmen experience.
That experience is shared from the earliest known participation of slavery in the 18th century on, including the adoption of plantation-style slavery among Cherokees, Indian Removal to the West and the American Civil War. It also shares how the Treaty of 1866 freed slaves in Cherokee Nation and made them Cherokee Nation citizens.
For more information on Cherokee Nation cultural destinations, events and exhibits, go to VisitCherokeeNation.com.