In response to the executive order from Muscogee Nation Chief David Hill to pause new citizenship cards, Seminole Nation Principal Chief Lewis Johnson has issued the following statement: As Principal Chief of the Seminole Nation of Oklahoma, I affirm my full support for the inherent sovereignty of the Muscogee (Creek) Nation and its right to govern its internal affairs without interference. The recent decision of the Muscogee (Creek) Nation Supreme Court concerning the Treaty of 1866 and citizenship for Freedmen descendants carries significant implications for the exercise of tribal self-government, constitutional authority, and the interpretation of treaty obligations.

The Office of the Principal Chief of the Seminole Nation acknowledges the sacred nature of treaties entered into between tribal nations and the United States. At the same time, we affirm that sovereignty resides in the people of each Nation, expressed through their constitutions, laws, and elected leadership. The authority to define citizenship and to establish standards of governance is a sovereign right that rests exclusively with each Nation not with external governments, nor with any one branch of government acting outside the scope of its constitutional authority.

I recognize and commend Principal Chief David Hill for his leadership in issuing Executive Order 25-05. His action reflects a measured and responsible approach to protecting the stability, continuity, and sovereignty of the Muscogee (Creek) Nation, while ensuring that necessary changes to law and policy are undertaken in a fair and deliberate manner. This action exemplifies the duty of a Principal Chief to safeguard the integrity of the Nation’s institutions and to uphold the rule of law as defined by the people.

The Office of the Principal Chief of the Seminole Nation of Oklahoma stands in solidarity with the Muscogee (Creek) Nation during this critical time. Sovereignty is not symbolic it is inherent, living, and enduring. It is the right of every tribal nation to determine its path forward, to protect its institutions, and to define its future in accordance with the will of its people.

On behalf of the Office of the Principal Chief of the Seminole Nation of Oklahoma, I extend my continued support to Principal Chief David Hill and the Muscogee (Creek) Nation as they move forward in this matter with the strength and dignity befitting a sovereign people.”