The Indigenous People’s Association invites the community to an inspiring weekend of storytelling, film and culture as Okmulgee prepares to celebrate Indigenous Peoples’ Day 2025.

The festivities begin Saturday, Oct. 11, with the premiere screening of “Tiger Short 2025,” a powerful documentary-style short film directed by Loren Walters. The screening will take place at 6 p.m. inside the STEM Building Lecture Hall Classroom at the College of the Muscogee Nation (CMN).

The film focuses on the life and legacy of Dana Tiger – an internationally recognized Indigenous artist, elder and activist whose work has illuminated Native resilience, family and creativity for decades. The story delves into Tiger’s personal and professional journey, highlighting the artistic impact of the Tiger family, as well as the legacy of the Tiger T-Shirt Company, which helped bring Indigenous imagery and empowerment to wearable art.

Following the screening, a panel discussion moderated by Cassandra Thompson will invite the audience to reflect on the film’s themes of perseverance, intergenerational strength and the importance of storytelling in preserving Native culture. Audience members will have the opportunity to ask questions and share insights during the discussion.

Admission is free and open to the public. Organizers encourage guests to arrive early, as seating is limited. The event serves as a meaningful prelude to Monday’s citywide celebration, showcasing Indigenous excellence in the arts and honoring those who continue to shape and preserve Native identity through creative expression.

— Indigenous Peoples’ Day Celebration Monday, Oct. 13

The main celebration will follow two days later on Monday, Oct. 13, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. on the south lawn of the Creek Nation Council House, located at 100 W. 6th Street in historic downtown Okmulgee.

This year’s theme – “Celebrating the Contributions, Resilience and Inherent Sovereignty of Indigenous Peoples” – brings together artists, educators and performers from across the region. The day will be filled with live music, dancing, comedy, cultural demonstrations, traditional foods and over 50 local vendors offering handmade crafts, jewelry, art and traditional items.

James “Major” McHenry will serve as Master of Ceremonies, guiding the day’s schedule of speakers and performers. The celebration opens at 11 a.m. with a posting of colors and flag song by the Muscogee (Creek) Nation Honor Guard, followed by a welcome from National Council Representative Robyn Whitecloud and Second Speaker Thomasine Yahola.

Okmulgee Mayor Mickey Baldwin will present a City Proclamation, recognizing Indigenous Peoples’ Day and honoring the Muscogee Nation’s historic and cultural contributions to Okmulgee and beyond.

— Performers, Speakers & Cultural Highlights

Throughout the day, guests can enjoy a vibrant lineup of performances and cultural presentations, including:

• Aryn Ward & Ben Yahola Contemporary Native Music

• Jordan Jayi, Will Buck & Kels Cooper – Comedians bringing humor rooted in Native experience • Dana Tiger – Presentation and screening of her film “Tiger”

• Sampson Tabbytite – Professional MMA Fighter sharing his story of discipline and cultural pride

• Burning Cedar Sovereign Wellness – Chef Nico Williams presenting Indigenous culinary health education

• Wotko Long – Cultural speaker emphasizing language and storytelling • Jane Tiger – Storyteller sharing traditional narratives

• Parker Reed DeRoin & Mylah Beaver – Powwow dance performances featuring Southern Straight and Southern Cloth styles

• Maddie Lamb – Live art and painting demonstrations

• Nelson Harjo – Flute music performances

• Russell Sun Eagle – Verified News Network presentation on modern Native media The Mvsoke Language Program will also host an interactive session at 11:50 a.m., encouraging participants to learn and speak key phrases in the Muscogee language.

— Vendor Marketplace & Cultural Exhibitions

This year’s vendor market promises a showcase of Indigenous entrepreneurship and creativity, featuring artists, crafters, and organizations dedicated to Native heritage and community wellness.

Vendors include 3NativeSisters, Dana Thompson, Alexandra Oloizia, Ann Tiger, Freetztastic Freeze Dried Candy, MMIW Indian Capital, Tulsa Area Arkansas River Advocates and many more. Attendees can browse artist booths, resource displays, cultural exhibits and enjoy a free cultural meal at noon.

A fashion show at 2:30 p.m., coordinated by Cindy Russell, will highlight contemporary and traditional designs that honor Native identity and sustainability.

— Community Spirit & Celebration

From storytelling and music to dance and visual art, Indigenous Peoples’ Day in Okmulgee celebrates both the heritage and the forward momentum of Native peoples.

“It’s about community and connection,” organizers said. “We’re not just looking back at history – we’re celebrating who we are today and the future we’re building together.”

The day will close with a 3 p.m. ceremony featuring a closing song and prayer led by the MCN Honor Guard and Stephen Powell, bringing the celebration full circle in gratitude and unity.

Both the “Tiger Short 2025” screening and Monday’s Indigenous Peoples’ Day celebration are free and open to all ages.

For updates, follow the Indigenous People’s Association and Muscogee (Creek) Nation Council House Museum on social media.