When I first heard members of the community discussing their desire to have their own vehicular license plate, I thought they were talking about a tribal tag like many other federally recognized tribes now produce and regulate.

Newly selected, government-approved, delegates have been selected from various segments of the community, including the appointees from the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians (EBCI) Executive Office and elected officials from Tribal Council.

There is a black mark on our nation’s history that resulted in untold suffering and trauma that resonated across the decades in tribal communities throughout the nation: the Indian boarding schools that operated in this country during the 19th and 20th centuries.

As keepers of our traditions and sovereignty, we vehemently oppose any attempts to exploit or appropriate the rich cultural legacy of Cherokee people. Our identity is deeply rooted in our history and connection to our land.