1. Assessment & Research

Goal: Understand where and how to reach at-large Cherokee Nation citizens.

Actions:

• Identify areas with high concentrations of at-large citizens (using Census data, community organization membership lists, Cherokee Nation satellite offices, and Cherokee community groups nationwide).

• Assess barriers to voter registration or participation (e.g., awareness, digital access, distance from election offices, cultural engagement).

• Coordinate with the Cherokee Nation Election Commission to ensure compliance with all laws and to obtain accurate information about registration processes, deadlines, and eligibility.

2. Education & Awareness

Goal: Ensure every Cherokee citizen understands their right to vote and how to exercise it.

Actions:

• Create educational materials (flyers, infographics, FAQs, and videos) explaining:

  • Who is eligible to vote.

  • How to register (online or by mail).

  • How to verify registration.

  • How to vote absentee as an at-large citizen.

  • Key election dates and procedures.

• Host informational webinars or community talks (online or in Cherokee community centers nationwide).

• Leverage Cherokee media outlets, such as:

  • Cherokee Phoenix newspaper.

  • Cherokee Nation social media channels.

  • Cherokee language radio and cultural podcasts.

• Emphasize the cultural and community importance of civic participation—voting as an expression of sovereignty and self-determination.

3. Partnerships & Outreach

Goal: Use trusted networks to reach at-large citizens effectively.

Actions:

• Partner with Cherokee community organizations, Cherokee Nation Community Associations (CNCAs), Cherokee churches, and tribal alumni associations.

• Develop a volunteer network of “Civic Ambassadors” to share accurate voting information.

• Build relationships with urban Indian centers and university Native student organizations to reach younger and urban-based Cherokee citizens.

4. Registration Assistance

Goal: Make it easy for Cherokee citizens to get registered correctly.

Actions:

• Provide step-by-step registration guides and links to the Cherokee Nation Election Commission’s voter registration forms.

• Offer registration support sessions online or at community events where volunteers can walk participants through the process.

• Distribute voter registration packets at powwows, cultural events, and community gatherings.

• Encourage and assist citizens to verify their registration status before deadlines.

5. Accessibility & Support

Goal: Reduce logistical barriers to voting.

Actions:

• Provide plain-language explanations of absentee voting procedures, including mailing addresses and deadlines.

• Offer technical help lines or email support for those completing online registration or absentee ballot requests.

• Share information about Cherokee Nation Election Commission contact resources for questions or ballot assistance.

6. Motivation Through Community Connection

Goal: Encourage participation through belonging and shared responsibility.

Actions:

• Share nonpartisan stories and testimonials from Cherokee citizens about why they vote.

• Frame voting as a continuation of sovereignty and heritage—a modern way of protecting Cherokee values and voice.

• Recognize and celebrate community milestones (e.g., “Cherokee Civic Engagement Week” or digital participation challenges).

7. Evaluation & Feedback

Goal: Improve the program and ensure effectiveness.

Actions:

• Collect data on participation in events and registrations facilitated.

• Use surveys to gather feedback on barriers or confusion citizens still face.

• Prepare a report for internal use summarizing outcomes and next steps for future elections.

Key Resources

• Cherokee Nation Election Commission
  Website: https://election.cherokee.org
  Phone: (918) 458-5899
  Email: election@cherokee.org
  Address: P.O. Box 1188, Tahlequah, OK 74465