TAHLEQUAH, Okla. — The tribe recently held a two-day ‘Expungement Expo’ on May 19–20 at the Chota Center in Tahlequah. Citizens of federally recognized tribes attended the expo seeking to clear their criminal records.
The inaugural Expungement Expo was held in partnership by the tribe and Oklahoma Indian Legal Services, Inc. Established in 1984, OILS operates various legal programs at a pro-bono rate.
A total of 220 individuals were provided free legal screenings, application assistance and support for filing expungement petitions for criminal convictions in state court under Oklahoma law at the two-day event.
“If we want to implement a holistic system of wellness from medical interventions to community wellbeing, we have to look at the unintended impacts of the judicial system,” said Cherokee Nation Principal Chief Chuck Hoskin Jr. “The individuals who have gone through the justice system have adequately repaid their debts to society, the unintended consequence of charges lingering on a person’s record may mean their only option is substandard housing or a lack of career progress. These issues have lasting impacts on not only individual family units but the health of a community as a whole. I will work with the Council, our courts, and our Attorney General this summer to develop further reforms to our criminal code that give judges clear expungement authority in appropriate cases and in a manner that is fully transparent.”
The tribe is analyzing barriers to housing, employment, sustainability, and the ability for individuals and families to actualize their goals. Programs from various tribal departments including, the Housing Authority of the Cherokee Nation and Career Services, are structured to improve the quality of life for individuals looking to advance their earning potential and provide stable housing conditions.
Cherokee Nation Deputy Principal Chief Bryan Warner visited the expo and spoke with attendees on issues that they are facing.
“Our approach is to lift each other up and treat each other with kindness,” said Deputy Chief Warner. “We’re seeing issues of people who have to make do with less and just need a helping hand. The Oklahoma Indian Legal Services, Inc. has been a great partner to bring a fresh start to our neighbors.”
The expo operated as a legal clinic and resource fair, where participants moved through the process of intake, background checks, eligibility screening and petition preparation. Individuals who were not currently eligible for expungement, received guidance on future eligibility and next steps.
“Our team is able to serve through administrative filings or a possible court appearance for expungement,” said OILS Executive Director Stephanie Hudson. “Don’t be afraid to just come and ask us what’s available. OILS wants to help you.”
Participants were able to connect with Cherokee Nation departments and programs that are focused on workforce development, education, health service, housing and reentry programming as well.
Cherokee Nation Government Specialist Maggie Glory planned the expo and secured the partnership with OILS. She plans to increase access to legal aid alongside Cherokee Nation Administration.
“I am incredibly grateful for everyone who played a role in Cherokee Nation’s first Expungement Expo and helping make this effort a reality,” said Cherokee Nation Government Relations Specialist Maggie Mae Glory. “The Expungement Expo demonstrated what is possible when strong partnerships come together to help our citizens remove barriers and help create new opportunities for their future. This initiative was built on the belief that everyone deserves a second chance and access to the support and resources needed to move forward, rebuild, and thrive.”