About
Cherokee P.I.N.S: Education and Engagement for Sovereignty
The Cherokee PINS Project is committed to enhancing civic understanding and engagement between Cherokee Nation citizens who reside within the tribal boundary with those who are outside the jurisdiction. Toward that end, the PINS Project offers educational workshops and builds community development partnerships.
"We Want You!"
For 15 years I worked for the Cherokee Nation tribal government and served as an elected official representing the "At-Large" Cherokee citizens who reside outside the boundary. I've had wonderful opportunities to become involved with both those who are at home within the Nation's boundaries, and those who are not.
The Cherokee PINS Project was developed so in-boundary and At-Large Cherokee Nation citizens could have the same opportunities. By building networks and relationships, and contributing skills and knowledge to each other, we are expanding the Cherokee value of "ga-du-gi" to organizations at home and across the country and contributing to strong culture, communities, and tribal sovereignty.
Since efforts began in the early 2000s to bring At-Large Cherokees into better involvement with the Nation, I have sometimes heard people object to the term "At Large" to describe our citizens who reside outside the tribal boundary. Some have said it sounds like they are wanted, to which my response has been "They are wanted -- we want you!!"
Dr. Julia Coates
Cherokee Nation Tribal Council Representative
Message from At Large Cherokee Tribal Council Member
The Cause
Connecting Cherokee People with Causes that Matter
The Cherokee PINS Project believes that both in-boundary and At Large Cherokee Nation citizens have talents, skills and resources to offer to each other and to our shared society and government. But overcoming the lack of knowledge that each segment of our society has about the others is a challenge. The Cherokee PINS Project believes that community education in conjunction with community engagement can assist Cherokee Nation citizens to have a better understanding of who the others are and how we all fit into this great Nation -- its history and its future. Won't you join this effort? We can't do it without you!
© 2016 by Cherokee PINS