Eastern Band of Cherokee Tribal Council to Formally Oppose Duke Energy Substation
February 4, 2010
Eastern Band of Cherokee Tribal Council to Formally Oppose Duke Energy Substation
CHEROKEE, NC- Today the Tribal Council of the Eastern Band of Cherokee approved formal action to oppose a Duke Energy Substation in Swain County, North Carolina. The tribe voiced opposition to the substation for two reasons. First, the impact of construction of the substation was never open to scrutiny by any of the interested parties including the tribe, Swain County government or Swain County residents and secondly, that the impact of the substation would adversely impact the Cherokee sacred site traditionally known as Kituwah also referred to as Ferguson Field.
The tribe has directed the EBCI Office of Attorney General to seek remedies to the situation including but not limited to retaining independent counsel to assess the tribe’s rights and to work with local county officials to halt progress on construction until local concerns can be heard by the Public Utilities Commission.
“Kituwah is the most important sacred site to the Cherokee People and it is amazing that it remains intact into the 21st century,” said Michell Hicks, Principal Chief of the Eastern Band of Cherokee. “We purchased the site for the sole purpose of ensuring protection for future generations of Cherokees and it is our responsibility as a Nation to continue that work. We have a positive relationship with Duke Energy and with Swain County and I feel confident we can reach an amicable solution once we have an opportunity to formally consult with Duke Energy on this important matter.” Hicks said.
