Eastern Cherokee chief makes newspaper cut column

Wednesday, October 17, 2007  

The chief of the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians has ordered the tribal newspaper to remove an anonymous column.

The "Rants and Raves" column in the One Feather newspaper allowed anonymous comments and criticism. But in an executive order on October 1, Principal Chief Michell Hicks said it contained in appropriate language and was hurtful to people.

The order came on the same day Hicks was inaugurated for a second term in office. He won by just 14 votes.

The tribal council has upheld the executive order. But some tribal members say it violates the tribe's 2006 Free Press Act, which states that One Feather "shall be independent from any undue influence and free of any particular political interest."

Others say people should be able to express their opinions without resorting to anonymous comments.

Get the Story:
Chief’s newspaper decree leads to free speech debate (The Smoky Mountain News 10/17)

Relevant Links:
Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians - http://www.cherokee-nc.com
Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians, site 2 - http://www.nc-cherokee.com
Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians, unofficial - http://www.easternband.com