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A RESOLUTION EXPRESSLY ENCOURAGING appropriate TRIBAL CONSULTATION and represntation IN THE BOY SCOUTS OF AMERICA PROGRAM
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WHEREAS, the Cherokee Nation since time immemorial has exercised the sovereign rights of self-government in behalf of the Cherokee people; and,
WHEREAS, the Cherokee Nation is a federally recognized Indian Nation with a historic and continual government-to-government relationship with the United States of America; and,
WHEREAS, Boy Scouts of America was founded in 1910, now having more than 2.4 million participants and nearly 1 million adult volunteers, many of whom are Cherokee Citizens; and
WHEREAS, Cherokee Nation has been a strong supporter of the Boy Scouts of America for many years, providing annual contributions to local troops and packs, organizing cultural experiences; and
WHEREAS, the Sequoyah District of Boy Scouts of America has been an example of Boy Scouts’ positive engagement and consultation with Cherokee Nation. The Sequoyah District has adapted its use of tribal names, imagery and practices in a manner that demonstrates a growing reverence for, and deeper understanding of, native culture in a manner that more appropriately educates scouts and the public on relevant subjects; and
WHEREAS, Boys Scouts of America are located across Oklahoma and other states with tribal reservations and should be culturally aware and inclusive in their program; and
WHEREAS, Cherokee Nation has strong opposition to the misuse of Native names, imagery or cultural references of any sort; and
WHEREAS, Cherokee Nation officials are committed to remaining engaged on the federal and local level and offering guidance to the appropriate use of native imagery and cultural references across the reservation; and
WEREAS, the Council of the Cherokee Nation strongly encourages Boy Scouts of America leaders to seek counsel from their tribal partners on all topics related to Native American culture, heritage and history; and
WHEREAS, meaningful dialogue between the Boy Scouts of America and Cherokee Nation has greatly improved understanding and respect toward Cherokee Nation and its history and culture;
WHEREAS, by letter of May 13, 2021, Boy Scouts of America advised all Scout leaders “no Native American names,” and did so without consultation with relevant tribal nations; and
WHEREAS, the Council of the Cherokee Nation discourages Boy Scouts of America from the use of, or wholesale discontinuation of the use of, references to native culture and names without first consulting with or seeking resolution from the tribal nations; and
WHEREAS, the office of Principal Chief has demonstrated a commitment to engaging in consultation with communities, entities and other partners with responsible and respectful approaches to referencing tribal cultures.
BE IT RESOLVED BY THE CHEROKEE NATION that the Council of the Cherokee Nation, hereby supports Tribal Consultation and constructive conversation on the use and further implementation of Native American culture in Boy Scouts of America programing.