The Cherokee Nation is extending a significant service to its citizens residing outside of its Oklahoma base, bringing the opportunity to acquire official tribal citizenship photo identification cards to nearly 3,500 Cherokee individuals living in Colorado. This initiative underscores the tribe’s commitment to strengthening its connection with its dispersed citizenry and fostering a greater sense of cultural identity and belonging. To facilitate this process and provide detailed information, tribal officials held a community meeting in Denver on July 19th, providing a crucial avenue for enrollment and engagement.
This endeavor to provide government-issued photo IDs is more than just a logistical exercise; it represents a profound statement of sovereignty and self-determination. As Principal Chief Bill John Baker articulated, the issuance of these IDs serves to "instill a greater sense of pride in our people," effectively connecting Cherokee citizens in Colorado with their heritage and the larger tribal community.
The Significance of Tribal Identification
For many indigenous people, including the Cherokee, maintaining a connection to their heritage while navigating the complexities of modern society can present unique challenges. A tribal citizenship card serves as a tangible link to their cultural identity, a physical manifestation of their belonging to a vibrant and historically rich nation.
Beyond the symbolic value, these photo IDs also offer practical benefits. They can be used as proof of tribal affiliation in various situations, from accessing tribal services and programs to asserting rights and privileges afforded to citizens of the Cherokee Nation. In an increasingly mobile and interconnected world, having a readily available form of identification that acknowledges their unique status as tribal citizens can be invaluable.
Chief Baker himself highlighted the practical utility of the tribal citizenship card, noting his successful use of it at major airports and even when interacting with the U.S. Secret Service. This anecdote illustrates the growing acceptance and recognition of tribal identification as a legitimate form of documentation, further empowering Cherokee citizens to confidently navigate various aspects of daily life.
The Cherokee Nation: A Nation of Strength and Resilience
The Cherokee Nation stands as the largest tribal nation in the United States, boasting a citizen base exceeding 300,000 individuals. This remarkable scale underscores the enduring strength and resilience of the Cherokee people, who have overcome historical adversity and continue to thrive as a sovereign nation.
Since 2012, the tribe has been actively issuing tribal citizenship photo IDs, with over 42,000 cards distributed to date. This widespread adoption of the identification system is a testament to its value and the eagerness of Cherokee citizens to embrace this tangible symbol of their heritage.
The design of the tribal citizenship card itself reflects the meticulous attention to detail and commitment to authenticity that characterizes the Cherokee Nation’s efforts. Resembling a driver’s license in format, the card prominently displays the citizen’s photograph and Cherokee Nation registration number, serving as primary identifiers. The card also features the citizen’s signature and the signature of the Principal Chief, further solidifying its official status. To ensure authenticity and prevent counterfeiting, a distinctive Cherokee Nation hologram seal is incorporated into the design, providing an additional layer of security.
Citizens also have the option of including their official Bureau of Indian Affairs Certificate of Indian Blood (CDIB) information on the back of the card. The CDIB is a document issued by the BIA that certifies an individual’s degree of Indian blood quantum, which can be relevant for eligibility for certain federal programs and tribal benefits. Including this information on the tribal ID card can streamline administrative processes and provide a convenient way for citizens to demonstrate their eligibility when necessary.
The Denver Community Meeting: A Bridge to Connection
The community meeting held in Denver on July 19th served as a crucial bridge, connecting Cherokee citizens in Colorado with the resources and information needed to obtain their tribal citizenship photo IDs. The meeting was held from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Nighthorse Campbell Native American Health Building at the University of Colorado Denver, located at 13001 E. 17th Place in Aurora. The choice of venue, a prominent Native American health facility, underscores the tribe’s commitment to the well-being of its citizens and its dedication to providing culturally sensitive services.
The meeting provided an opportunity for citizens to learn about the application process, ask questions, and receive assistance from tribal officials. This direct engagement with the community is essential for ensuring that all eligible citizens have the opportunity to obtain their tribal IDs.
More Than Just an ID: A Symbol of Identity and Sovereignty
The initiative to offer tribal citizenship photo IDs in Colorado represents more than just the issuance of a piece of plastic. It is a powerful symbol of identity, sovereignty, and connection for the Cherokee people. By providing this service to its citizens living outside of Oklahoma, the Cherokee Nation is reaffirming its commitment to its dispersed community and strengthening the bonds that unite them.
The tribal citizenship card serves as a tangible reminder of their heritage, a practical tool for navigating daily life, and a symbol of their belonging to a vibrant and resilient nation. As the Cherokee Nation continues to grow and evolve, this initiative will undoubtedly play a vital role in fostering a stronger sense of community and empowering its citizens to proudly embrace their Cherokee identity.