Trial Begins For Black Creeks Looking To Reinstate Muscogee Nation Citizenship

The trial is underway to decide whether descendants of former slaves of the Muscogee Creek Nation should be tribal members.

Descendants of the Black Creeks said they just want to be recognized as citizens and receive the rights that should have never been taken away.

The trial began with testimony from Carla Pratt, a law professor who who was called as an expert witness.

Pratt said the treaty of 1866 which addresses the status and rights of freed slaves and persons of African descent residing among the Five Tribes was wrongfully changed.

Rhonda Kay Grayson and Jeff Kennedy were also on the stand and both were questioned about their lineage and why they fight so hard to be recognized as citizens of the tribe.

News On 6 spoke to Ron Graham who said he was one or the original plaintiffs for this case and said both sides of his family were Creek Freedmen.

“I believe strongly that we will get our citizenship back simply because article 2 states that,” Graham said.

Attorney Demario Solomon Simmons, who’s representing the descendants, said he feels they had a positive day in court and they’re looking forward to tomorrow.

Day two of the trial will begin Wednesday, April 5, at 10 a.m.