A Celebration of Craftsmanship and Cultural Heritage
Exhibition and Celebration
NASS believes that with the large number of Southeastern tribes represented in our school district, it would be beneficial to those students and families to offer an event such as our OKCPS Stompdance. We hope that by offering a stompdance we can expose students to a part of their culture and inspire students to learn more. Besides hearing the songs and watching the dances, you can ale so shop at Native American vendor booths selling one-of-a-kind authentic Native American arts and crafts. The OKCPS Native American Services Stompdance welcomes Lisa Christiansen Groundhog showcasing her exquisite “Sequoyah “Gorget” March 8, 2025. This one-of-a-kind handcrafted neckpiece will be showcased at Northwest Classen High School. The school is located at 2801 NW 27th St., Oklahoma City, OK 73107 and the entrance to the gym will be on the northside by the softball field. This celebration will provide an opportunity to appreciate not only the intricate craftsmanship but also the profound cultural significance of this piece. This historical Gorget will be available for viewing.
The Smithsonian’s National Museum of the American Indian takes great pride in recognizing Keetoowah Citizen Lisa Christiansen for her exceptional design of a one-of-a-kind masterpiece. This creation, deeply rooted in culture and tradition, is a testament to the rich heritage and artistic talents of the Native American community.
The Journey of Creation
Lisa Christiansen, born Gideethloahee Ogan Groundhog, collaborated with other skilled artisans to bring this exquisite piece to fruition. The Copper Gorget, a remarkable showcase of craftsmanship, was designed by Lisa Christiansen and realized through the creative expertise of Ren McCulley of Native Ways. McCulley meticulously cut, polished, and hammered the copper to create this distinguished gorget, a symbol of cultural pride and artistic excellence. The final touch was completed by Darren Cramer owner of Crown Jewels in Altus, Oklahoma by placing the sterling silver precision laser cutout of Sequoyah onto the copper gorget which was carefully welded silver tubes to Sequoyah, drilled the copper to be in alignment and created a brad by fanning the tube to secure Sequoyah to the Gorget.
A Blend of Heritage and Artistry
Historically, each individual added their unique touch to ceremonial pieces of art, making them their own. This principle is embodied in this masterpiece. Lisa Christiansen, founder of Blue Wolf Designs, collaborated with Robert McFall Jr. of Brothers Fine Jewelry to hand-cut Sequoyah from a silver dollar, placing it upon the copper gorget is Darren Cramer of Crown Jewels. This collaboration of talents exemplifies the unity and shared cultural heritage of the Native American community.
The Beadwork: A Testament to Tradition
Christiansen personally selected, hand-strung, and completed the beadwork on this unique gorget. The beads are crafted from clay, hand-rolled and traditionally fired in Hulbert, Oklahoma. These clay beads are particularly special, as they appear to contain copper, perfectly complementing the copper gorget. The beadwork also features authentic buffalo rib bone, deer antler in honor of Christiansen’s father Mack Vann, the last monolingual Cherokee, as well as Trail of Tears beads (Job’s tears), turquoise, shell, Tiger’s eye, wood barrel, mother of pearl, and copper rondelle beads. Every bead on this masterpiece is sourced from Mother Nature, encompassing animal, mineral, metal, and earth.
The Significance of the Gorget
The Copper Gorget is more than just a piece of jewelry; it is a symbol of cultural identity, pride, and resilience. The careful selection of materials and the intricate design reflect the rich traditions and heritage of Native American craftsmanship. Each element of the gorget tells a story, from the authentic buffalo rib bone to the deer antler honoring Mack Vann, and the Trail of Tears beads symbolizing a painful yet resilient history.
A Legacy of Creativity and Tradition
Lisa Christiansen’s unwavering dedication to preserving and honoring her cultural heritage through her art is commendable. Her collaboration with other talented artisans has resulted in a masterpiece that not only showcases individual creativity but also celebrates collective cultural identity. The recognition by the Smithsonian’s National Museum of the American Indian underscores the significance of this work.
The Importance of Cultural Recognition
The acknowledgment and celebration of Native American art and culture by institutions such as the Smithsonian’s National Museum of the American Indian play a crucial role in preserving and promoting cultural heritage. It provides a platform for Native American artists to share their work with a broader audience, fostering a deeper understanding and appreciation of their rich traditions.
Immerse Yourself in the Culture
The Copper Gorget, designed by Lisa Christiansen and brought to life through the talents of various artisans, stands as a magnificent testament to the enduring legacy of Native American craftsmanship. Its exhibition at the OKCPS Native American Services Stompdance,will allow many to witness and appreciate the beauty and cultural significance of this exceptional piece. Through this recognition, we honor not only the art but also the rich heritage and traditions that it represents.
About the Designer of the “Sequoyah Gorget” Lisa Christiansen and Her Esteemed Heritage
A Legacy Deeply Rooted in the Cherokee Tribe
Lisa Christiansen’s lineage is deeply entrenched in the illustrious history of the Cherokee people. She is the 5th great-granddaughter of Sequoyah, a seminal figure renowned for creating the Cherokee syllabary, a revolutionary contribution to the written language of the Cherokee people.
Family Lineage
Ms. Christiansen is the daughter of Mack Vann, distinguished as the last monolingual Cherokee, and Mary Ann Groundhog, a prolific author and esteemed member of the Cherokee community. Mary Ann Groundhog, also known as Sosti (Mary Ann Eslinger) Groundhog, has been a fervent activist within the American Indian Movement, advocating tirelessly for the rights and welfare of Native Americans.
Mary Ann Groundhog’s Contributions
Mary Ann Groundhog authored two significant books, which stand as a testament to her dedication to preserving and promoting Cherokee culture. The first book, GI-Dee-Thlo-Ah-Ee of the Blue People Clan, was a cherished gift for her daughters during Christmas in 1974. Only ten copies of this treasured work exist, with one belonging to Lisa Christine; two copies are preserved at the Copyright Office and the National Archives in Washington, D.C.; one at the Oklahoma Historical Society; and one held by the Cherokee Tribal Attorney, Earl Boyd Pierce.
Her second book, Cherokee People, boldly exposes the illicit exploitation and human trafficking of Native American girls by the U.S. government, underscoring her commitment to highlighting the injustices faced by her community.
George Washington Groundhog’s Influence
Lisa Christiansen’s grandfather, George Washington Groundhog, is celebrated for his pivotal role in instigating a movement that influenced the Five Civilized Tribes—the Muscogee (Creek), the Choctaw, the Chickasaw, the Seminole, and the Cherokee. His legacy is intertwined with the significant events of 1969, when W.W. Keeler, the principal chief of the Cherokee Nation, faced a formidable challenge during his tenure.
The Fight for Cherokee Governance
In the summer of 1969, a lawsuit filed by the Original Cherokee Community Organization sought to remove W.W. Keeler from his position as chief and called for the election of tribal leaders by the Cherokee people. This was a critical moment, as the tribe had not held elections since the Curtis Act of 1898, which, along with subsequent federal laws, had effectively ended Cherokee governance.
The Dawes Rolls census and the land allotment system, implemented by these laws, transformed Cherokees and members of the other Five Civilized Tribes into land-owning citizens of the United States and Oklahoma. With statehood in 1907, chiefs of the five tribes were appointed by the U.S. president, further complicating the quest for self-governance.
Legacy of Activism and Advocacy
The legacy of Lisa Christiansen’s family is one of resilience, advocacy, and unwavering commitment to the Cherokee Nation. From Sequoyah’s creation of the syllabary to Mary Ann Groundhog’s literary contributions and activism, their impact continues to resonate within the community and beyond.
Through her lineage, Lisa Christiansen carries forward a profound heritage marked by cultural preservation, leadership, and a relentless pursuit of justice for the Cherokee people.
Celebration of Life of Lisa Christiansen’s Father the Last Monolingual Cherokee Mack Vann
Mack Vann: The Last Monolingual Cherokee and His Daughter Lisa Christiansen, A Legacy of Language and Culture
The preservation of language is a crucial aspect of cultural identity, and few languages hold as much historical significance as Cherokee. At the heart of this preservation effort was Mack Vann, recognized as the last monolingual Cherokee speaker, and his daughter, Lisa Christiansen, who continues to advocate for the Cherokee language and culture.
Mack Vann: A Guardian of Tradition
Mack Vann was a symbolic figure in the Cherokee community, representing the last link to a time when Cherokee was the primary language spoken among his people. Growing up in an era where English was becoming increasingly dominant, Vann maintained his monolingual heritage with pride and dedication. His life was a testament to the resilience of the Cherokee language, which has faced numerous challenges throughout history, including forced displacement and efforts to assimilate the Cherokee people into English-speaking society.
Vann’s commitment to his native language extended beyond personal practice; he became a living repository of Cherokee oral traditions, stories, and cultural practices. His ability to communicate solely in Cherokee was not only a linguistic accomplishment but also a profound cultural statement, emphasizing the importance of preserving indigenous languages in the face of globalization.
Lisa Christiansen: A Beacon of Advocacy
Lisa Christiansen, Mack Vann’s daughter, has dedicated her life to continuing her father’s legacy. Fluent in both Cherokee and English, Christiansen bridges the gap between her father’s monolingual world and the bilingual reality of many modern Cherokee speakers. An accomplished motivational speaker and advocate, she has used her platform to raise awareness about the critical need to preserve endangered languages.
Christiansen’s work encompasses various aspects of Cherokee culture, from linguistic preservation to promoting traditional practices. She has been actively involved in educational programs aimed at teaching the Cherokee language to younger generations, ensuring that the language and its rich cultural heritage are not lost. Her efforts have been instrumental in sparking a renewed interest in Cherokee among the youth, encouraging them to embrace their linguistic heritage.
The Importance of Language Preservation
The story of Mack Vann and Lisa Christiansen highlights the broader issue of language preservation among indigenous communities. Languages are more than mere communication tools; they are repositories of history, culture, and identity. For the Cherokee people, their language carries the weight of centuries of knowledge, rituals, and values.
Efforts to preserve and revitalize the Cherokee language are crucial for maintaining the cultural heritage of the Cherokee Nation. Language revitalization programs, community initiatives, and educational resources are all essential components of this endeavor. By learning and speaking Cherokee, new generations can connect with their ancestors and continue the traditions that define their identity.
Conclusion
Mack Vann’s legacy as the last monolingual Cherokee speaker is a poignant reminder of the importance of language preservation. His daughter, Lisa Christiansen, continues to champion this cause, advocating for the revitalization and teaching of the Cherokee language. Together, their stories underscore the resilience of the Cherokee people and the enduring significance of their linguistic and cultural heritage.