IHS funding change ends Cherokee Nation Contract Health Funds for UKB members

Cherokee Nation announced this week that, as a result of its agreement with Indian Health Service, the United Keetoowah Band of Cherokee Indians in Oklahoma will assume responsibility for its exclusive UKB members’ purchase and referred care program – a federally funded, independent health care program for tribes – effective Jan. 1, 2025.

An Open Letter to the Department of the Interior

Dear Assistant Secretary Newland: As leaders of the Cherokee Nation, we are writing regarding an urgent public safety matter on the Cherokee Nation Reservation that, if left unaddressed, could adversely affect federal, tribal, and state relationships and the lives of all residents of our Reservation.

32 Oklahoma law enforcement officials call for UKB to end rogue ‘police’ force

Anadisgoi

TAHLEQUAH, Okla. — More than 30 local Oklahoma law enforcement officials, including Cherokee Nation Marshal Shannon Buhl, issued a letter warning about a threat from the United Keetoowah Band of Cherokee Indians (UKB) that is undermining their ability to hold criminals accountable and keep communities safe.

Marshal Buhl: UKB A Threat to Public Safety

Anadisgoi

I’ve been serving our country and our nation for 38 years, both in the military and law enforcement. While leading the Cherokee Marshal service, I work with county Sheriffs, prosecutors, and municipalities to keep the 7,000-square-mile Cherokee Nation Reservation safe; that includes citizens and non-citizens alike. We all have a shared goal of keeping our communities safe.

Principal Chief Chuck Hoskin Jr. Letter: UKB false history claims about reservation

Tulsa World

The written word is a powerful thing. Treaties, histories, laws — all are written to preserve intent and more importantly protect the truth. Recently during their Tribal Council meeting, the chief of the United Keetoowah Band of Indians made a false claim that the UKB was entitled to 7 million acres for a reservation.

Opinion: New Indian Health Service funding for UKB redundant, confusing for patients

Tulsa World

Indian Health Service recently signed an agreement with the United Keetoowah Band of Cherokee Indians in Oklahoma granting them $5.6 million to establish a tribal health system. With the health, safety and convenience of all Oklahoma tribal citizens at the forefront of our minds, we believe this funding is unwarranted, unnecessary and redundant.