Critical decision-making instruction is lacking in our basic educational systems. Many organizations teach about Critical Thinking, but few teach students how to think critically about anything.

This is my Council Report for January. I hope everyone has had a safe and productive start to the new year. As always, my report follows the standard format below.

Beau Carroll is a true educator who is passionate about his Cherokee culture and heritage.  A member of the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians (EBCI), Carroll is the lead archaeologist with the EBCI’s Tribal Historic Preservation Office.

“A flag or emblem formally used to show the central or rallying point of an army in battle,”

We are governed through a document called “The Charter.” Like a constitution, it provides the broad stroke parameters of governmental function for our tribe. Unlike a constitution, the Charter has little language in it regarding the civil rights of the people who are governed.

Sometimes we might wonder what motivates others to write letters and notes, clean up the messes, stand in the hot sun or cold weather, do the shopping, set up the tents, hand out the bulletins, play music, pull the cables, visit the sick or dying in the hospitals, homes, or hospices.

As we enter a new year, there have been more public conversations about Tribal sovereignty and that attention creates opportunity. But when important ideas are discussed more widely, it matters that they are understood clearly.

Many of us have worked in the ministry alongside hundreds of good people who relished the opportunity to do for others by being the hands and feet of our Lord and Savior, Jesus.