Copyright © 1999 NLThomas
All Rights Reserved

Cherokee Press Association
Copyright © 1999 CPA
All Rights Reserved

TAHLEQUAH, OK - Justice Ralph F. Keen has announced that he will retire when his term ends, and will not accept reappointment to the Cherokee Nation's highest Court, The Judicial Appeals Tribunal. His term formally ended Dec. 31, 1998, but automatically continues until his successor is sworn in.

His retirement will end a long, distinguished and varied career of service to the Cherokee Nation which began in June 1967, when the then Chief, W.W. Keeler, chose him to lead the tribe in its efforts to regain its rightful place in today's world.

His early accomplishments under Chief Keeler included the establishment of the first tribal office in Tahlequah since statehood, and the formation of the Cherokee Community Representatives organization, the forerunner of today's Tribal Council. He also began the Cherokee Nation News, which later became the Cherokee Advocate."

He was also an early supporter of a new Cherokee Constitution and, after it became a reality, served as the first Chief Justice of the Cherokee Nation, having been appointed by Chief Ross Swimmer.

Later, he was again appointed to the Judicial Appeals Tribunal by Chief Wilma Mankiller, and became Chief Justice on Jan. 1, 1997, but because of declining health, gave up the office Chief Justice on Aug. 1, 1998 retaining his seat as a Justice.

"Justice Keen has always fought for good government, and for openness in govern," according to present Chief Justice Dwight W. Birdwell. "Justice Keen believes that the rule of law should apply equally to everyone, regardless of their position in Cherokee society. As Chief Justice, Ralph led the Court during the takeover of the Courthouse by Chief Byrd, operating the Court out of his home during the time the Courthouse was closed and its windows boarded up. He continue to lead the court until the Courthouse was reopened and back in the business of serving he people of the Cherokee Nation. Justice Keen will be missed by all responsible Cherokee citizens, but we will continue to have the benefit of his experience, wisdom and service, until a successor is named, " added Birdwell.

"I have been very fortunate to have had the opportunity to help my tribe for the past thirty some odd years," Keen stated.

"I loved my job. I love the historic Courthouse, and I love my people," Keen said.

He will continue to reside with his wife, Karen, in their new home in Broken Arrow following his retirement.

[**Note:No successor has yet been named. Byrd has recommended Assistant District Attorney Darrell Dowty of Stilwell to replace Keen on the tribe's high court. The appointment must be approved by the Tribal Council.]