Ten Convictions — And Why We Support Change... And We Will Support Any Candidate for Cherokee Office that Shares These Convictions

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1. At-large Cherokee organizations have functioned as political extensions of the Cherokee Nation while presenting themselves as non-political nonprofits. Transparency matters. Citizens deserve clarity about who speaks for them and why.

2. The Cherokee Nation must strengthen its democracy. Equal representation for at-large citizens — proportional to our numbers — requires structural reform, including consideration of a Constitutional Convention.

3. Government should serve citizens first. When governance appears aligned more closely with tribal business interests than with the daily needs of the people, priorities must be reassessed.

4. Elected officials must represent constituents, not administrations. Public office is a trust. Accountability should be visible, measurable, and ongoing.

5. At-large citizens must engage. Self-government only works when citizens are informed, attentive, and willing to participate.

6. At-large citizens are essential to meaningful reform. Our numbers, perspective, and independence position us to advocate for a more representative and transparent government.

7. Dependency weakens representation. When citizens feel reliant on governmental favor, strong oversight and independent civic engagement diminish.

8. Investment priorities reflect values. Language, culture, arts, and education are foundational to Cherokee identity and continuity. They deserve sustained commitment alongside economic development.

9. Internal division and public misunderstanding are profound challenges. Many Americans remain uninformed about Cherokee history, culture, language, and contemporary life — and internal fragmentation compounds that problem.

10. Our future depends on unity and principled self-government. To remain Cherokee in more than name, we must strengthen representative democracy, educate ourselves and others, and shape our future with respect for our history.