Losing candidate takes Cherokee Freedmen dispute to court

Tuesday, July 2, 2013  

A Cherokee Nation Tribal Council candidate who lost his race filed a challenge in tribal court over the rights of the Freedmen.

Robin Mayes tried to get a federal court to block the council election, which took place on June 29. Now that the vote is over, he says the results should be thrown out because Freedmen descendants weren't allow to vote.

“They can’t have it both ways — either the Freedmen can vote or they can’t,” Mayes told The Muskogee Phoenix.

As part of litigation in federal court, the Cherokee Nation agreed to maintain the citizenship status of Freedmen who already enrolled. Mayes said the tribe isn't processing new Freedmen applications.

The Freedmen, who are the descendants of former slaves, say a post-Civil War treaty guarantees their citizenship.

Get the Story:
Cherokee candidates challenge election (The Muskogee Phoenix 7/2)

Cherokee Nation candidate loses bid to halt vote for Freedmen (06/19)
Cherokee Nation candidate seeking to join Freedmen dispute (06/04)
This Land: One man's fight for Cherokee Freedmen justice (05/22)
Freedmen anticipate Cherokee Nation appeal to Supreme Court (03/14)
DC Circuit won't reconsider decision in Cherokee Freedmen suit (03/13)