Commemorative

It was the journey of many lifetimes.

The day started last May at five a.m.. With the three hour drive from East Texas to Tvshka Homma, Oklahoma, we left nothing to chance on missing any part of this great day.

The moment we arrived on Tribal Grounds, our family was treated like VIP’s. Shuttled on a golf cart from the parking area and then by bus to the starting point, we were greeted by Chief Gregory Pyle and Assistant Chief Gary Batton.

Loaded with bottled water and orange juice, we joined the thousand or so of others in prayer led by Rev. Bertram Bobb.

So began the 2010 Choctaw Trail of Tears Commemorative Walk.

The Choctaw Nation Color Guard set a brisk pace. Those around me greeted friends and shared recent stories. I enjoyed the unique scenery of Southeast Oklahoma, wondering again how my ancestors felt when

 they first beheld this place–their new homeland.

Roughly two miles later, the walk ended at the historic Choctaw Nation Capitol Building situated on the Tribal Grounds.

When the last of the walkers arrived and were seated in the covered amphitheater, Master of Ceremonies Shannon McDonald introduced the Choctaw Princesses: Sr. Miss - Rachelle DiNardo, Jr. Miss - Stephanie Tehauno and Little Miss - Juanita Gonzales. The three presented the Lord’s Prayer in sign language, accompanied by song. A moving speech about our heritage was given by Chief Pyle, followed by remarks from Assistant Chief Batton. Introduction of the Tribal Council was given by Council Speaker, Delton Cox. Tribal Council Chaplain, Joe Coley, closed with prayer.

Me with Asst. Chief Gary Batton

Afterwards, we had the privilege of chatting with Chief Pyle and Assistant Chief Batton. Chief Pyle was kind enough to introduce me to Lisa Reed, the editor of the monthly Choctaw Publication, the Biskinik. I shared with her a Trail of Tears fiction story I had written, Contrast. She requested I send it to her (it was later acquisitioned for publication).

The VIP treatment continued with a complimentary Barbecue dinner, Choctaw Cultural Displays and gospel singing by the Wesley Brothers. Entertaining as well was the Intertribal Bow Shoot, featuring the traditional longbow.

The event befittingly closed with a traditional Choctaw social dance.

The sights, sounds and memories of a people–my people–will echo in the hearts of those who made the journey back in time, honoring those who blazed our trails.

Me with Chief Greg Pyle