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Native American Heritage

I consider it a privilege to represent a state with a rich Native American heritage. In fact, I am the sole tribal enrolled Native American currently serving in Congress. My tribe is the Chickasaw Nation. They were one of the Five Civilized Tribes along with the Cherokee, Choctaw, Muskogee/Creek, and Seminole.

In our state there are currently 38 sovereign tribes. This strong tribal presence has truly helped keep our state "Indian Country." Please browse the links below to find out more information about Native American affairs, tribal history and what is being done to help preserve Indian heritage.

Native American Affairs

Bureau of Indian Affairs: Also called the BIA, the Bureau of Indian Affairs manages land belonging tribes, maintains relationships with individual tribes, and oversees education services to Native American children.

National Indian Gaming Commission: The NIGC is the federal agency in charge of oversight and regulation of Native American gaming enterprises.

Indian Health Service: An operation under the Department of Health and Human Services that helps provide health services to tribes.

Preserving Indian Heritage

Red Earth: Learn more about Red Earth's efforts to promote tribal traditions such as art and dance. Also find information about the annual Red Earth Native American Cultural Festival.

500 Nations: A catch-all sight for things going on in Indian Country.

Native American History

We Shall Remain: A PBS-produced series examining the profound part that Native American history plays in American history.

National Museum of the American Indian: A Smithsonian museum in Washington D.C. that works to preserve the history and artwork of native peoples.

National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum: This museum in Oklahoma City has an impressive collection of Western artifacts and artwork, including pieces that chronicle the experience of Oklahoma's tribes.