These gatherings are held to provide resources and registration opportunities to tribal members who live outside the reservation boundary in northeastern Oklahoma.
Cherokees at-large can apply for citizenship, register to vote in tribal elections, meet their tribal leaders and receive photo identification during these gatherings.
There are currently 24 at-large communities in 11 states and one in Washington, D.C.
“There were people in this country and people who held positions of power who not only thought the sun would set on the Cherokee Nation, but that it should set on the Cherokee Nation. But our ancestors never believed it (would).” Chief Chuck Hoskin said at the Aug. 11 event in New Jersey. “And here we are — that feels good.”
More than 100 people attended the gathering, with 22 registering to vote and 103 receiving tribal identification.
Future at-large events can be found here.
