Sorority Supports Move to Sever Relations with Cherokee Nation

International president's black Cherokee roots makes issue personal

International President Barbara A. McKinzie recently issued a press release where she expressed Alpha Kappa Alpha's support of Sorority member Rep. Diane Watson (D-CA) for introducing legislation to sever relations with the Cherokee Nation of Oklahoma for expelling the black Cherokees.

In the release, she noted that this action violates the treaty agreement between the Cherokee Nation and the United States.She also noted, with irony, that the Cherokee Nation, once displaced itself, is now exhibiting that same treatment toward the black Cherokees.

In an impassioned statement, she revealed that she is a descendant of black Cherokees and that she has a "personal interest" in this issue.

She issued a call to action for members to rally around Rep. Watson by writing government officials demanding that the Cherokee Nation comply with the treaty or face punishment.

Read McKinzie’s release
Read Rep. Watson’s release