Our sense of being Cherokee has been tainted by years of assimilation, some of which came by force and some by the lure of living a life of exorbitance. More money, power, and influence became the way of life.

Hemp, although not marijuana, is often associated with it.

First and foremost, I would like to say, “Thank you!” Everyone has been overly supportive and encouraging! Unified together we can make a difference, and I wanted to let you know that we have.

When I was being “reintroduced” to the Tribe after a long time away from Cherokee, a friend told me early on that I should expect a good amount of “poking fun” and “name-calling” if I was to be welcomed and accepted in the community.

Discrimination and hate are out there and going to Harry’s on the Hill; I got to experience it first-hand.

This Labor Day, I want to remember my son, Patrick Bradley Allison (Feb. 2, 1973 – April 14, 2015), who was killed three years ago while on his job to make the roads safer for his community.

It is common practice in politics, whether it is incumbents, candidates, or representatives of special interests, for people to use extremes to get their point across or to sell their ideas.

I have asked several tribal offices for help, to no avail.