Cherokee National Holiday celebration in Tahlequah

The Cherokee Nation is celebrating more than five decades of Native American history this Labor Day weekend. This year's Cherokee National Holiday commemorates its 52 years with parades, pageantry

Saturday, September 4th 2004, 6:43 pm

By: News On 6

The Cherokee Nation is celebrating more than five decades of Native American history this Labor Day weekend. This year's Cherokee National Holiday commemorates its 52 years with parades, pageantry and festivities. More than 90 thousand people are expected to attend the event throughout its three day run.

Saturday's festivities began with a colorful parade through downtown Tahlequah.

The Principal Chief Chad Smith delivered his State of the Nation Address reminding Cherokee citizens about the nation's focus language, jobs and community and the importance of passing the on the tribal legacy.

The nation also remembered Brian Moss, Kyle Showler Brinlee, Fern Holland, and Caleb Power, four Cherokee members who died in the 9-11 attacks and the war on terror. Their families accepted their Patriotism Medals for their service to our country and the Cherokee Nation.

The Cherokee National Holiday will continue through Sunday. For more information go to the Cherokee Nation's website at www.CherokeeNation.org.