Letter from the Editor

Liz Gray/Managing Editor

Hesci! Liz Gray cvhocefkvt os and I am the new Managing Editor for Mvskoke Media. I would like to take a moment to introduce myself, or reintroduce myself to the faithful readers of the Mvskoke News. I am a Muscogee (Creek) citizen. I grew up in the Okmulgee/Morris area. I am Fuswvlke or bird clan, with roots in the Big Cussetah United Methodist Church.

I was a reporter for the newspaper from 2017-2019 before departing to the other side of communications, where I was able to gain experience as a professional communicator. I found myself in the state of Texas at one point. However, the Mvskoke Reservation is and always will be my home. I missed the hustle and bustle of journalism, and am happy to be back in the newsroom. I plan to hit the ground running with covering the Muscogee (Creek) Nation and issues facing Indian Country.

I am dedicated to ensuring citizens are receiving the best quality news. I not only believe in ethical journalism; I am committed to upholding those values.

With a monumental election approaching, I am excited about the unique opportunity being presented to Muscogee (Creek) voters in deciding on a constitutionally protected free press. This department is dedicated to providing the appropriate resources to voters to stay as informed as possible. My purpose is not to sway, but rather educate. The decision and power are ultimately in the hands of the citizens. It is history in the making and Mvskoke Media plans to be there to cover every step of the way.

I want to address the National Council Seat B candidates, everyone who files July 19-21 will be contacted for their profile information to be placed in the Aug. 15 edition. I will give every candidate a fair and equal opportunity to utilize this department in order to encourage an educated voter population. Call me with any questions at: 918-732-7762, or email at: egray@mvskokemedia.com.

We will be facilitating coverage throughout the election season, stay up-to-date with the latest news and follow us on social media via Facebook, Twitter and YouTube.

Mvskoke Media stands out from other media outlets, we are here to keep citizens informed about their tribal nation and not fall into the sensationalism that has become associated with outside news media. It should be our duty to serve our citizens’ best interest, not the interest of those who hold office.

I would like to end by saying that this is my community, my passion lies in telling the stories of the Mvskoke people. I want to share the stories of the people who make up this great tribal nation. I want to take an in-depth look at the daily actions directly affecting citizens. Oftentimes from a historical perspective, there is a recurring experience of tremendous loss as Indigenous people, what makes up for it is vnokeckv (love). That’s what I have for my tribe. Our story is about thriving, not just surviving. I look forward to covering life on, and sometimes off, the Mvskoke Reservation. This is for the Mvskokvlke.

Mvto!