JOHNNY J KIDWELL'S SECOND TERM PLANS
There are many changes we have helped facilitate the past 4 years in the Cherokee Nation community.
We together have accomplished much but there is still work to be done.
Johnny J Kidwell will continue to work tirelessly to enhance the lives of At Large Citizens. Lets not stop now.
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Continue the Mission
Medicare and Medicaid Premium Assistance for Elders
Recent times have proven that caring for our elders must remain one of our highest priorities. More resources must be directed toward caring for those we hold most dear. Our elders deserve to be treated with dignity, appreciation and respect. As your councilor, I will work diligently to explore new funding streams so we can help out elders cover the increasing costs of healthcare. Our elders deserve our undivided attention, our love, and the respect of living in the comfort they deserve.
Telemedicine/Virtual Health
WE must move into a world of healthcare that leverages technology. At Large citizens deserve the ability to see a Cherokee Nation doctor for routine check-ups and minor issues.
CONTINUE RESPONSIVENESS + COMMUNICATION
I promise to stay laser focused on my At Large Cherokee family and be immediately responsive to your needs. I will continue to be proactive in outreach to assist you and be the resource that you, your family members, and all citizens need regardless of where they reside. My cell phone number is (918) 964-6545 – the same number I will have while serving. I live one hour from Tahlequah – if you call, I will respond. If you require information or assistance, I will be 100% engaged. I will always be available for you.
SCHOLARSHIPS
I will continue to expand both the number and value of scholarships for At large citizens. We need to fund and expand education and vocational training opportunities for At Large students and ensure there is equity in both the application process and the disbursement of funds.
Make it easier for At Large citizens to Vote
We need to facilitate and allow At Large voters to cast ballots at district precincts.
Transition all election information to an online system (e.g., OK Voter Portal)
REPRESENTATION
Living at large, we are very aware of the fact that state and federal legislation and rulings affect well beyond the Cherokee Nation 14 counties. Dialogue, interaction and representation are imperative to maintaining and expanding tribal rights and protections. Gaming compacts, the McGirt ruling, Ida’s Law (for Missing & Murdered Indigenous People) as well as many others have an impact on tens of thousands of Cherokees living at large in Northeastern Oklahoma. Our voices must be represented equally alongside those living inside the Nation.
CULTURE +
HERITAGE PRESERVATION
As your councilor, I will continue to fight for additional resources for programs that are proven to enhance cultural awareness for our people. Existing programs like the Cherokee Language Master/Apprentice Program, the Language Immersion School, the Language Teacher Training Scholarship Program, and others must remain financially protected and prioritized. Growing up in Spavinaw, Mayes County, cultural events were common and held at our school. I cherish the positive impact this had on my life and I’ll fight for increased funding for cultural outreach specifically directed at our school-aged kids. Our Cherokee children are the cultural sustainment we require, and our kids must have more opportunities than I did to learn their Cherokee language and appreciate their culture.
