Celebrating 198 Years of the Cherokee Phoenix: A Legacy of Resilience and Communication
Today marks a significant milestone in journalism and Native American history, as it has been 198 years since the publication of the first issue of the Cherokee Phoenix. This momentous occasion is not only a tribute to the resilience of the Cherokee Nation, but it also highlights the importance of communication in preserving culture and fostering community.
The Birth of a Newspaper
The Cherokee Phoenix was the first newspaper published by Native Americans in the United States and the first to be published in a Native American language, thanks to the genius of Sequoyah, who created the Cherokee syllabary. This remarkable achievement allowed the Cherokee people to communicate effectively and assert their rights during a tumultuous period in history. The Phoenix served as a platform for both informative articles and advocacy against the encroachment of settlers on Cherokee land.
A Legacy of Advocacy
In its early days, the Cherokee Phoenix featured articles that not only praised Sequoyah’s invention but also addressed the pressing issues facing the Cherokee Nation. The paper worked diligently to raise awareness and gather support against the injustices of land removal, demonstrating the power of the press as a tool for activism. Its revival in the 20th century attests to the enduring spirit of the Cherokee people and their commitment to maintaining their cultural identity through language and journalism.
Continuing the Tradition
The legacy of the Cherokee Phoenix continues to thrive in the 21st century. Notably, in 2013, artists Jeff Marley and Frank Brannon utilized the Cherokee syllabary type for a printing project in New Echota, Georgia. This reaffirmation of Cherokee linguistic heritage not only honors the past but also inspires future generations to embrace their cultural roots.
A Tribute to Lucy Hobbs Taylor
Additionally, we also celebrate the accomplishments of Lucy Hobbs, who became the first woman in the world to graduate from a dental college, obtaining her doctorate in dentistry. Her journey, marked by perseverance in the face of gender barriers, laid the groundwork for the future success of countless women in the field of dentistry. The cascading effects of her achievements vividly illustrate how a single individual's determination can create pathways for others.
In recognizing these historical events, we celebrate the resilience, creativity, and commitment of those who fought for expression and equality in their respective fields. The stories of the Cherokee Phoenix and Lucy Hobbs remind us that the journey towards equity and representation is ongoing and must be nurtured by every generation.
