The new leader of the Cherokee Nation of Oklahoma signed an executive order that he said will create a more open tribal government.

The order allows tribal employees to talk to council members about employment issues. It rescinds an internal policy, instituted by the prior chief, that barred such communications.

"No one should be forced to waive their rights under the Cherokee Constitution to work for our nation. We will honor and respect our employees. We are going to run an open and transparent government and no one will ever be censored. This is just the first of several steps in that direction," Principal Chief Bill John Baker said in a press release.

Get the Story:
Order allows Cherokee Nation employees to speak with elected officials (The Muskogee Phoenix 10/24)
New principal chief begins work, moves into tribal complex (The Cherokee Phoenix 10/24)
New chief opens Cherokee employee speech with officials (The Tulsa World 10/25)

Cherokee Nation Supreme Court Decisions:
Vann v. Salazar (October 11, 2011)
Cherokee Nation Registrar v. Nash (August 22, 2011)

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