Aniwodihi Rep. Stamper Highlights Tribal Government, Strategic Planning

Monthly report covers community events, project updates, ordinances, and work sessions

Published on Mar. 1, 2026

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In his February report, Tribal Council Representative Michael Stamper of the Aniwodihi (Painttown) community discusses the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians' (EBCI) strategic planning efforts, including the tribe's decision to withdraw from some national tribal organizations. Stamper emphasizes the importance of community engagement and communication with elected officials to help shape the tribe's future priorities.

Why it matters

As a sovereign government, the EBCI must continually evaluate its strategies and adjust as needed, but developing long-term plans can be challenging with changing administrations. Stamper's report highlights the tribe's precarious position, with technology allowing for instant community feedback, and the need to realign goals with a rapidly changing environment.

The details

Stamper's report covers a range of topics, including upcoming community events, project updates, ordinances, and work sessions scheduled by Tribal Council. He notes the tribe will be withdrawing from some national tribal organizations, citing concerns about the increasing number of state-recognized groups and the impact on the unified voice of federally recognized tribes. Stamper encourages community members to engage with elected officials to help shape the tribe's future strategic plan, which could focus areas like the Town of Cherokee, placing newly purchased lands into trust status, services for enrolled members, or revenue-generating projects.

  • The groundbreaking ceremony for the new Class II gaming facility will be held on Feb. 24.
  • Tribal Council work sessions are scheduled for Feb. 23, Feb. 24, and March 2.

The players

Michael Stamper

Tribal Council Representative for the Aniwodihi (Painttown) community.

Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians (EBCI)

A federally recognized tribe located in North Carolina.

United South and Eastern Tribes (USET)

An organization that the EBCI is withdrawing from as a founding member.

National Congress of American Indians (NCAI)

Another organization that the EBCI is withdrawing from as a founding member.

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What they’re saying

“If there are initiatives you believe your elected officials should pursue, voice your opinion. In today's political environment, communication matters. Reach out to your Council member, Chief, Vice Chief, county commissioner, state representatives, members of Congress, Senators, and Governor. I welcome and appreciate input from our communities regarding items on Tribal Council's agenda.”

— Michael Stamper, Tribal Council Representative (theonefeather.com)

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This report highlights the EBCI's efforts to realign its strategic goals and priorities, emphasizing the importance of community engagement and communication with elected officials to help shape the tribe's future. The decision to withdraw from national tribal organizations reflects the tribe's desire to maintain a unified voice and address concerns about the growing number of state-recognized groups.