Culture is the soul of the Mvskoke people, and preserving it is a duty that the Mvskoke Nation Youth Council approaches with honor and dedication. Over the past year, MNYC has worked tirelessly to deepen their knowledge of Mvskoke heritage and share it with others—locally, regionally, and nationally.
In September 2024, MNYC members traveled to the ancestral lands of the Muscogee (Creek) Nation for the 32nd Ocmulgee Indigenous Celebration at Ocmulgee Mounds National Historical Park in Macon, Georgia. For many, it was a powerful homecoming. There, they participated in dances, traditional games, and cultural demonstrations, helping to educate the public while grounding themselves in the legacy of their people. Their cultural booth invited attendees to engage in beadwork and learn Mvskoke words—fostering connection through art and language.
October brought another opportunity for cultural exchange as MNYC traveled to Washington D.C. to participate in the Mvskoke Etvlwv Festival. Members showcased Mvskoke heritage through craft tables and interactive art activities, all while building lasting bonds with fellow youth from across Indian Country. These national platforms elevated MNYC’s voice and allowed them to proudly represent the Nation.
At home, cultural education remained a focus. Members took part in weekly Mvskoke language classes, expanding their vocabulary and usage. Several youth participated in the development of a Native Arts curriculum aimed at middle school students, collaborating with artists and educators to ensure that Mvskoke art, symbols, and traditions were central to the curriculum.
In December, MNYC hosted a multi-tribal youth council gathering that blended cultural preservation with social impact. Alongside youth from the Cheyenne, Arapaho, and Cherokee nations, members shared songs, played traditional games, and engaged in workshops on healthy relationships, leadership, and youth advocacy. In February, MNYC co-hosted a Teen Dating Violence Awareness event that concluded with a cultural walk at the historic Creek Nation Council House, symbolizing strength and unity.
Cultural preservation isn’t just about remembering the past—it’s about using tradition to guide the future. Through ceremonies, gatherings, and education, MNYC continues to protect and promote Mvskoke identity with pride, resilience, and love.