An artist in Tahlequah, Oklahoma, recently accused the Cherokee Nation of “non-Indian” activities, claiming construction of the tribe’s new casino is disturbing wetlands. Murv Jacob told the Tahlequah Daily Press, “I kind of think the wild birds ought to be able to come here, where they’ve come since the last Ice Age, and not have to deal with this Indian tribe that is so non-Indian that they don’t mind destroying the wetlands that have made this place inhabitable.” Jacob is not eligible for enrollment in the Cherokee Nation.
The tribe broke ground for the casino in March in Tahlequah, the Cherokee Nation’s capital in northeastern Oklahoma. Tribal officials said there is no evidence of lodge mounds at the site, and environmental studies submitted to the Bureau of Indian Affairs indicated construction is not harming wetlands. “The archeological survey required by the BIA to play the land into trust is required for that very reason, to ensure culturally significant sites are not disturbed in any way,” a tribal spokesperson said.
Principal Chief Bill John Baker noted, “We believe in making sound investments that have a lasting impact on the Cherokee Nation and the Cherokee people. This new property will be a regional attraction for tourism and economic development and is a complement to the work happening at Cherokee Springs Plaza and all over the Tahlequah area.”
About 50 acres of the 154-acre site are being held in trust to be used for the 92,000 square foot casino. The mixed-use development at Cherokee Springs Plaza also will include retail, dining and entertainment options and an 18-hole golf course.
