Strengthening cultural identity in Native youth, to lower suicide risk later in life

This story is part of VNN Oklahoma’s “Returning to Balance” Solutions Journalism Series. Using a solutions journalism approach, these stories highlight Indigenous led, culturally informed strategies to address challenges that disproportionately affect Native communities. "Returning to Balance" aims to inspire leaders, health organizations, and community members to

“Grave miscarriage of justice”: Attorney asks court to reconsider April Wilkens for resentencing

(TULSA, Okla.) April Wilkens’ attorney has filed a petition asking the court to reconsider and reverse its recent decision to deny her release under the Oklahoma Survivors’ Act. Wilkens has been serving a life with parole sentence since 1998 for killing her rapist and abuser Terry Carlton. She has been

Mvskoke Nation youth leaders in action

(MUSCOGEE RESERVATION) On August 23, the Mvskoke Nation Youth Council gathered for its monthly meeting at the Youth Services Office. Ten attendees filled the room with energy, laughter and pride as young leaders discussed community projects and cultural preservation. The meeting was led by Mia Powell, co-chair of the council’

Mvskoke language keyboard now available for iPhone

Image Courtesy: Damian Ward (NATIONAL) Apple recently launched a Mvskoke language keyboard for iPhone users. The Mvskoke keyboard joins the Chickasha, Chahta, and Cherokee keyboards previously available, representing four of The Five…Tribes whose forced removal ended in the loss of their Peoples, cultures, and languages. Language is the root

Symposium to reflect on the past while looking toward future for Indigenous Tulsans

(TULSA, Okla.) Two days of impactful conversations, panels, and presentations are coming back to Tulsa on October 4th and 5th. Verified News Network (VNN) Oklahoma will be hosting the Indigenous Roots American Indian History Symposium for the second year with a unique focus on history, health, and the events that

April Wilkens immediately denied sentencing relief under Oklahoma Survivors’ Act

(TULSA, Okla.) Following a two-day hearing, domestic violence survivor April Wilkens was denied a shortened sentence despite her lawyer’s efforts to show that her crime was influenced by abuse. Wilkens is currently serving a life sentence for killing her rapist and abuser Terry Carlton. Tulsa County District Judge David

Keeping traditions alive, one stitch at a time

(MUSCOGEE RESERVATION) The hum of sewing machines and the rhythm of laughter fill the room as 12- to 18-year-olds gathered to learn a skill rooted in culture, creativity, and community. Launched in 2014, the Mvskoke Nation Youth Services Project (MNYS) is the driving force behind “Connect the Disconnect”, a program

LNO Class of 2025 Highlights the Power of Intertribal Innovation

Native Commerce News is sponsored by the American Indian Chamber of Commerce of Oklahoma (AICCO), dedicated to expanding Indian Country commerce across the globe. Written By: Rachael Schuit (OKLAHOMA) Leadership Native Oklahoma (LNO) is the signature program for the American Indian Chamber of Commerce of Oklahoma (AICCO). On Monday August

State rep studying tribal relations and impact of data center expansion

(OKLAHOMA) – Oklahoma House representatives are launching interim studies on topics important to their districts and constituents. Freshman Rep. Mandy Clinton (D-District 71) secured approval for two studies, focusing on state-Tribal relations and the impact of data center expansion on Oklahoma’s water and power grid. “As I spoke to folks

More than a gathering: 73rd Annual Tulsa Powwow to celebrate tradition, community and generations

(MUSCOGEE RESERVATION) The 73rd Annual Tulsa Powwow returned August 16 and 17, 2025, taking place at the Arvest Convention Center at 100 Civic Center. Hosted by the Tulsa Indian Club, the Tulsa Powwow welcomed dancers and visitors from across Oklahoma and beyond. Tulsa Indian Club chairman David Bible says organizing

UKB leadership says secret legislation would terminate its rights

This story was updated on August 12 to include additional information about the UKB's FOIA request process. (OKLAHOMA) Tribal officials from the United Keetoowah Band of Cherokee Indians are demanding the retraction of a proposed U.S. Senate measure they say infringes on their tribal sovereignty and economic

Joint venture combines Tribal sovereignty and infrastructure solutions

(OKLAHOMA) Two Native-owned powerhouses specializing in infrastructure, engineering, environmental services, civil construction, and program and grant management are uniting as one. Grey Snow Native Strategies unites Grey Snow Professional Services, a Tribal-owned SBA 8(a) firm and economic engine of the Iowa Tribe of Kansas and Nebraska, and Native Strategies,