The Cherokee Nation's Call for U.S. Government Accountability: Historical Promises Unfulfilled

The Cherokee Nation, the largest Native American tribe in the United States, has been actively advocating for the U.S. government to honor a promise made nearly 200 years ago. This commitment is deeply rooted in the Treaty of New Echota and raises significant questions about the fulfillment of historical promises and their connection to broader issues such as immigration and documentation.

Historical Context: The Cherokee Nation and the Treaty of New Echota

The Treaty of New Echota, signed in 1835, marked a pivotal moment in the relationship between the Cherokee Nation and the United States government. This treaty promised to provide a delegate seat in the U.S. Congress for the Cherokee Nation, a promise that has never been fulfilled. The Cherokee Nation has been calling for the U.S. government to uphold this obligation, arguing that it is a basic right derived from the treaty and reflects a significant historical commitment.

While the connection between this historical promise and contemporary issues such as immigration and documentation may not be immediately apparent, the principle of honoring longstanding commitments aligns with modern discussions about accountability and trust in governance. The failure to fulfill the promise made to the Cherokee Nation can be seen as a reflection of larger societal issues related to treaty rights and obligations, which are crucial in understanding the broader context of U.S. policy towards Native American tribes.

A Mitchel Red Cloud: A Key Figure in the Cherokee Nation's Efforts

Mitchel Red Cloud, a prominent member of the Cherokee Nation, has been at the forefront of the movement to hold the U.S. government accountable. His advocacy highlights the ongoing struggle for recognition and the fulfillment of historical promises. Red Cloud emphasizes that the U.S. government should honor its word, stating, 'Congress should do what it promised to do 200 years ago. It’s never too late to right a wrong.' This standpoint underscores a larger debate about the importance of keeping political promises in a democratic society.

Rather than dismissing historical grievances, Red Cloud advocates for a deeper understanding of the past and its impact on the present. He points out that the concept of agriculture, for instance, is not unique to Europe, but rather was spread globally by ancient peoples including those from Africa. This perspective challenges the narratives often propagated by mainstream historical discourse and emphasizes the interconnectedness of global cultures and knowledge.

Reaffirming Historical Truths: Mitchel Red Cloud's Arguments

Mitchel Red Cloud's arguments are rooted in a broader historical and cultural narrative that seeks to reestablish the rightful place of Native American nations in the United States. He argues that agriculture started in Africa and was spread across the world by various groups, including Native Americans. This perspective is not merely a reinterpretation of history but a challenge to the prevalent Eurocentric view of agricultural origins.

Red Cloud draws on the work of scholars like Cheikh Anta Diop, a renowned West African historian and scientist, who conducted DNA tests on ancient remains. Diop's findings and his academic contributions have been recognized globally, particularly by UNESCO. Through these and other research efforts, Red Cloud and his supporters aim to challenge commonly accepted narratives and promote a more inclusive understanding of historical truths.

These truths are not just historical curiosities but are deeply connected to the identity and wellbeing of Native American communities. The U.S. government's recognition of historical promises, such as the promise made in the Treaty of New Echota, would not only fulfill a long-standing obligation but also affirm the sovereignty and rights of Native American nations.

Conclusion

The call by the Cherokee Nation for the U.S. government to fulfill the promise made in the Treaty of New Echota is more than just a historical request. It is a call for accountability, a recognition of the embattled relationship between Native American communities and the U.S. government, and a recognition of the cultural and historical contributions of Native American peoples to the world.

Through such movements, the Cherokee Nation and its allies seek to re-establish a dialogue based on mutual respect and acknowledgment. By addressing the unfulfilled promise of the Treaty of New Echota, the U.S. government can make a significant step towards righting a historical wrong and fostering a more equitable and just society for all its citizens.