Native fashion makes headlines, brings Indigenous beauty to forefront

In a time of fast fashion when customers often wear runway-inspired items a few times and discard them, many Indigenous designers and producers focus on creating unique pieces that stand the test of trends. Designer Leslie Deer, who is also the Cultural Activities Coordinator at CPN’s Cultural Heritage Center, prefers to make timeless pieces.

New program puts students on technical school fast track

The U.S. Department of Education awards millions of dollars for the Native American Career and Technical Education Program each year. In 2021, Citizen Potawatomi Nation received funds as one of 39 federally recognized tribes, tribal organizations and Bureau of Indian Affairs-funded schools to advance educational and career opportunities for Indigenous peoples and their communities.

Veterans report May 2022

This month’s report from the CPN Veterans Organization highlights several avenues available to veterans for receiving health care virtually, as well as this month’s upcoming meeting.

Kasie Nichols achieves professional credential, leadership opportunity

Citizen Potawatomi Nation Director of Self-Governance Kasie Nichols recently passed the credentialing exam to become a Certified Grants Management Specialist through the National Grants Management Association. The credential and council position are high honors, designating Nichols as one of the top experts in her field. She believes they bring distinctions for the Tribe as well.

Keeping the lights on

With three grocery stores, two casinos, two health care clinics, several restaurants, and many other enterprises and services, Citizen Potawatomi Nation always looks for ways to improve its electrical system and reduce power consumption. CPN tribal member and Toupin family descendant Justin Whitecotton leads the electrical department as its director, and each day brings new challenges and exciting opportunities.

Hownikan Podcast: Powwow etiquette

Experienced dancers and Citizen Potawatomi Nation tribal members Tesia Zientek and Randy Schlachtun joined Hownikan Podcast for a refresher on powwow etiquette ahead of the 2022 Family Reunion Festival.

Meet foster care parents Brit and Amber Hembree

When it comes to caring for area foster children, one Shawnee, Oklahoma, family makes community the priority. Brit and Amber Hembree provide guidance and support for children in their greatest time of need as foster parents through Citizen Potawatomi Nation’s FireLodge Children and Family Services.

Being and doing Potawatomi

Tribal member Kevin Roberts shares his journey to understanding what it means to say “Bodewadmi Ndaw!”

Reducing stigma in mental health treatment

Dr. Julio Rojas, psychologist and licensed alcohol and drug counselor at CPN Behavioral Health, discusses factors contributing to stigma surrounding mental illness and addiction, and advocates for comprehensive and compassionate care.