Princess was ‘dream come true’ for Jimmie

Princess was ‘dream come true’ for Jimmie

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Choctaw Indian Princess Elisah Monique Jimmie has stayed busy the last couple of weeks promoting the 71st Choctaw Indian Fair, but as her reign comes to an end, she says it has been a dream come true.

The Choctaw Indian Fair starts next Wednesday, July 14 with opening ceremonies at 6 p.m. followed by the Choctaw Indian Princess Pageant at 7 p.m. 

Jimmie’s two-year reign will come to an end with the crowning of a new princess.

“Serving as princess has been a dream come true,” Jimmie said. “This chapter of my life is closing soon. It has been overwhelming to go to different places and to be on my toes every day. But I always brought out my best effort.”

The princess is a symbol and spokesperson for the Mississippi Band of Choctaw Indians. In the long history of the Choctaw Princess pageant, Jimmie is the first to serve two years. 

The COVID-19 Pandemic forced the cancellation of last year’s Choctaw Indian Fair and the pageant, and Jimmie was asked to serve a second year.

“It was historic,” Jimmie said. “I am the only two-year princess. I traveled my first year. The second year, we couldn’t go anywhere. I had to do it virtually. I tried to share positivity and light during a negative situation. I wanted to show my people I am still here for them.

“One of the things I like to highlight during my year is our people. Even though we are different in some ways, we came together as one family and tried to help each other in a time of need.”

Though she won’t be serving as princess after next Wednesday, Jimmie will stay plenty busy. She will be in her second year at East Central Community College.

“I have finished my culinary classes and now I am finishing my academics,” Jimmie said. “After that, the next step for me is to attend Ole Miss and major in their hospitality program. I will be learning the entertainment business, taking care of guests and hosting events and conferences. I have always loved to do this and hope one day to become a host for the princess pageant.”

Jimmie is from Bihhi Ayasha, or the Pearl River community. She is the daughter of Karla Keats and Elijah Jimmie.

She talked about the variety of things to see and do at the Choctaw Indian Fair.

“The theme of the Fair has always been ‘The Choctaw Spirit lives on,’ Jimmie said. “I love all aspects of the Fair.”

Though it’s no surprise, her favorite part is the Princess Pageant.

For more information, go to choctawindianfair.com.






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