Copyright © 2001 NLThomas
All Rights Reserved

TAHLEQUAH, OK - Cherokee Nation Principal Chief Chad Smith has called for a committee to study the images used at Sequoyah High School.

"I've always said that Sequoyah’s identity as an Indian school is what makes it so special", Smith said. "My goal for this committee is to find a single image that represents Sequoyah's unique identity as an all-Indian school, an image that is agreeable to students, faculty, staff, alumni and parents."

Smith added that he does not advocate a nickname change for the school. "We've very clearly said for months and months that we are not changing the Indian identity of Sequoyah. The nickname is appropriate for an all-Indian school. It is a way to proudly proclaim who we are: Indians. Whoever continues to misrepresent the idea that I advocate changing the identity of Sequoyah must have a political agenda."

Smith has called for the committee to include students, faculty, alumni and parents, to make sure that all voices are heard.

"In the past, I've heard complaints from alumni and students who haven't been included in this process", Smith said. "This committee is a chance for everyone’s voices to be heard. The issue should not be decided without input from everyone."

Different groups at Sequoyah currently use several different visual logos to represent the school, including a spear, an Indian with a headdress and an image of Sequoyah.

"When you see a cream OU on a crimson background, everyone knows that stands for the University of Oklahoma", Smith said. "Sequoyah needs a single visual image that all teams, clubs and associations can use. One image that people can look at and think 'Sequoyah'. We want the committee to make an informed decision about what image best represents Indian students, because that is the identity of our school and our people. I believe in our students, alumni and staff. Whatever they come up with will be fine."

Smith has repeatedly stated that Sequoyah should maintain it's Indian identity.

"My father graduated from Sequoyah, and I honor his memory by setting the standards for Sequoyah very high", Smith said. "Sequoyah is the best Indian boarding school in the country, but there is still plenty of room for improvement. I see the process of settling on a single, Indian image for Sequoyah to be an educational exercise that can only yield positive results. What harm can a positive, educational, inclusive process be?"