Cherokee leaders throughout history have known that informed citizens are the backbone of our thriving democracy.

Well-executed journalism strengthens tribal sovereignty and self-determination by ensuring that our government remains accountable and transparent. That is as true today as it was when the Cherokee Phoenix first began publishing nearly 200 years ago.

That is why I, in collaboration with Deputy Principal Chief Bryan Warner, the Council of the Cherokee Nation, and the editorial leadership of the Cherokee Phoenix, am proud to announce the expansion and continuation of the Cherokee Nation’s Free Phoenix for All Program. The timing is especially significant, with National Newspaper Week coming in early October to appreciate newspapers and their staffs across America.

Our initiative offers a free one-year subscription to any citizen who opts in through our online Gadugi Portal. The portal has also proven extremely effective in connecting citizens to services they can utilize. At the same time, it saves the nation critical dollars by giving an easy way for Cherokees to provide their most up-to-date contact information. Once you sign up on the portal, one subscription per household can be mailed anywhere in the country at no cost.

We started this program during the COVID-19 pandemic to help Cherokees stay informed of the news in this difficult time. The accurate, timely information provided by the Phoenix was crucial for Cherokee families and communities to receive updates on public health and recovery efforts. Now, we are renewing that commitment, because it is just as much of a priority to keep our citizens across the globe engaged on the workings of their government.

The Cherokee Phoenix newspaper has been a stalwart source of information for Cherokee people since its establishment in 1828. It was the first newspaper published by Native Americans in the United States and the first bilingual newspaper in the country’s history. It has played a pivotal role in communicating and sharing our story with the world.

Additionally, the Cherokee Phoenix has been a vital resource for preserving our language and keeping it in daily use. It continues to serve as a valuable tool for language learners and first-language speakers alike.

Today, led by Executive Editor Tyler Thomas, the Phoenix embraces its legacy of unbiased reporting about issues shaping Cherokee Nation. While the Cherokee Nation does provide funding for the newspaper, it remains entirely separate from the government. As a free press entity, the Cherokee Phoenix is overseen by an independent editorial board and offers a platform for a wide variety of Cherokee voices.

Cherokee Nation is one of the few tribes that has a freedom of the press act, which underscores our commitment to an independent media. This is vital because a free press holds elected leaders accountable. It is a value that will endure long after my term as Principal Chief. By renewing the Cherokee Nation Free Phoenix for All Program, we are reaffirming our commitment to open government.

I encourage our citizens to sign up for the Phoenix. As a subscriber, you will receive the latest information about tribal programs and services, special events, Cherokee communities, and the significant achievements by Cherokees worldwide.

The deadline for enrollment is October 31. For those in need of assistance with the Gadugi Portal, our dedicated team is available at 918-453-5058 or via email at support-gadugiportal@cherokee.org.

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