Cherokee Blog

Free fishing and family fun in beautiful Cherokee, NC? Sounds like a blast! It’s no wonder thousands of people from around the country come to these mountains for the annual Talking Trees Children’s Trout Derby, a free fishing event for children.

Dancers, drummers, and singers from many Native American nations came together again this year to share their talents and cultures at the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians’ 43rd Annual 4th of July Powwow. Hundreds of competitors of all ages, from Tiny Tots (five and under) to the Golden Age (55 and older), danced alongside enrolled tribal members from across the Americas. Cherokee photographer Kristy Herron photographed the Powwow again this year. She shared some of her favorites with us. We love these shots, and hope you do, too!

If you’ve attended any major cultural events in Cherokee, NC, such as the Powwow or Cherokee Voices Festival, it’s likely you’ve been in the presence of Miss Cherokee. “My title is Goodwill Ambassador so I travel and represent the tribe, along Council or outside of Council, and I promote good will for the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians,” says Faith Long, Miss Cherokee 2017.

Traditionally, the designation of Beloved Woman or Man has been bestowed upon women and men who have made special and unique contributions to the Cherokee people. Women of the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians are now making contributions in many new ways. Because roles have shifted, so, too, should the definitions of the titles we use to honor Cherokee women and men. To help solidify the nomination process, how honorees should be recognized, what they should receive, and to preserve the integrity of the “Beloved” title, the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians Tribal Council voted unanimously last April to establish a Beloved Women Committee.