A flyer for the fundraiser states an "Old World" pigeon will be part of the event. Photo from SHARK Online

A Cherokee Nation director said she didn't know a pigeon shoot was part of a controversial fundraiser for Sen. Jim Inhofe (R-Oklahoma).

The flyer for the event was posted by an animal right group and it clearly states an "Old World" pigeon will be a part of the two-day event. But Courtney Ruark-Thompson, the director of government relations for the Cherokee Nation and Cherokee Nation Businesses, didn't notice and recommended Chief Bill John Baker attend with a $2,500 donation.

“I felt it was a good opportunity for relationship building and recommended Chief Baker attend and that we donate,” Ruark-Thompson told The Cherokee Phoenix. “I did not notice a pigeon shoot was listed on the detailed agenda showing about 10 activities planned over the course of the weekend. Had I noticed that item on the itinerary, I would not have made the same recommendation.”

Baker went to the event in his Cherokee Nation vehicle and wore a Cherokee Nation shirt. He said he was "surprised" with the nature of the pigeon hunt -- in which live birds were thrown in the air and shot down.

In videos posted by SHowing Animals Respect and Kindness (SHARK), Baker can be seen with a gun. However, in a statement he said he left the area where live pigeons were being shot.

Inhofe is running for re-election. His opponent is Democrat Matt Silverstein, who is a member of the Choctaw Nation. The race is not competitive, according to polls compiled by RealClearPolitics.

Members of the Cherokee Nation Council who handle the tribe's political contributions have voted to donate $1,000 to Silverstein.

Get the Story:
Chief’s pigeon shoot attendance sparks controversy (The Cherokee Phoenix 10/3)

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