New Muscogee (Creek) Nation Chief Addresses Broken Arrow Casino

The Muscogee (Creek) Nation held its inauguration ceremony for new Principal Chief George Phillip Tiger Saturday morning in Okmulgee.

"We are on the cusp of being an ever great Nation, but that future will only be realized through unity, endurance and ultimately, change," Tiger told tribal members and guests in attendance.

"My commitment to you is we will be transparent and accountable to you, our most important resource, our tribal citizens," Tiger said.

The newly inaugurated principal chief said he will release a statement within a week or so addressing the Nation's role in the controversial Kialegee Tribal Town Casino under construction in Broken Arrow.

He told members of the media that there is "a lot of misinformation out there."

The Nation is currently conducting a study on the proposed casino and won't discuss the issue until that study is finished, Tiger said.

Chief Tiger did address the relationship between the Muscogee (Creek) Nation and the Kialegee Tribal Town.

"Kialegee are Creek, and they are not alone in their frustrations," he said.

1/6/2012 Related Story: Oklahoma Leaders Want Answers To Broken Arrow Casino Concerns

In his inaugural speech, Tiger promised to make the Nation's judicial and health care services top priorities.

"This Nation deserves fair and equitable decisions within our judicial system," he said.

Another priority was streamlining the application process for housing, to provide decent housing "in the most expedient manner."

Tiger has been a member of the Muscogee National Council for 14 years, serving as speaker of the council in 2006-7.

Second Chief Roger Barnett and council members were also sworn in.

The ceremony began at 10 a.m. with events taking place throughout the day at the Creek Nation Tribal Complex on U.S. Highway 75 at Loop 56 West. There will be performances of gospel music at 2 p.m. and a stomp dance at 6 p.m.

All events are open to the public.