The Culture Committee Meeting of the Cherokee Nation convened on January 30, 2024, to discuss various initiatives aimed at preserving and promoting Cherokee language and culture. The meeting began with a report on educational programs designed to support students transitioning from the Cherokee Immersion School to Sequoia High School. The "Fourteenth Gen" program was highlighted for its role in reinforcing language skills and providing after-school support for seventh and eighth graders.

The committee also discussed the Cherokee Nation Teacher Institute of Excellence, a new grant-funded initiative aimed at enhancing the language abilities of immersion teachers. Additionally, the Cherokee Language Teacher Training Scholarship was introduced, targeting students at Northeastern State University pursuing degrees in Cherokee language studies.

Community language classes are set to resume in April, with plans for both community and at-large classes. The meeting noted the ongoing success of Dennis Sixkiller's "Cherokee Voices, Cherokee Sounds" radio program, which continues to be a vital resource for language learning.

A significant update was provided regarding the Durbin Feeling Dictionary, which is set to be reprinted in celebration of its fiftieth anniversary. The dictionary is recognized as a foundational resource for Cherokee language learners.

The meeting also addressed the translation department's efforts, including a recent bell-ringing ceremony to honor the loss of first language speakers. The consortium meeting held in November was mentioned, where representatives from three tribes gathered to celebrate first language speakers, an event that is now planned to be annual.

In terms of community support, the Speaker Services department reported on its initiatives, including assistance with utility bills and housing needs for fluent Cherokee speakers. They are also digitizing their documents into a new data platform to streamline services.

The meeting transitioned to discussions about the Cherokee National Treasures Advisory Committee, where Eddie Morrison reported on various exhibits featuring Cherokee national treasures. Notable mentions included Thomas Muscrat's exhibit at the Saline Courthouse Museum and Troy Jackson's artistic exploration of Cherokee history at the Anna Mitchell Cultural and Welcome Center.

The meeting concluded with no old or new business pending and a brief announcement regarding a project led by staff members Brooke Neff and Kristen Thomas, which was highlighted by Deputy Secretary of State Canaan Duncan.

Overall, the meeting underscored the Cherokee Nation's commitment to cultural preservation through education, community support, and the celebration of its artistic heritage.