In an effort to register thousands of young Native Americans, the first-ever Rock the Native Vote will take place Saturday, June 5, in Oklahoma City.

With a lineup featuring Hopi reggae artist Casper Lomayesva, the bluesy Chebon Tiger Band and others, the non-partisan event will educate and encourage Indian Country to vote. "The belief is that through becoming politically active, positive social change will occur," said Rev. David Wilson, executive director of the Oklahoma Indian Missionary Conference of the United Methodist Church. Wilson is serving as chair of the concert, which has received a grant from the UMC.

Brian Frejo, an Oklahoma Native hip-hop artist, has been helping to arrange the concert. �Some of the most popular acts in Indian Country will be here, from rap and hip hop to rock and blues," he said.

The event has the support of former Oklahoma State Senator Enoch Kelly Haney, a member of the Seminole Nation. "It is time for the indigenous people of America en masse to exercise their rights as citizens," he said. "It is a responsibility we owe to both our ancestors and to our children."

Ticket price is $10 and will be available through OK Tickets beginning April 5. A website for the concert is being set up at http://www.rockthenativevote.com. For more information, please call 405-632-2006.