Tribal COVID-19 memorial unveiled Friday at Lake Pushmataha
A Mississippi Band of Choctaw Indians COVID-19 memorial was unveiled Friday at Lake Pushmataha.
Tribal Chief Cyrus Ben, Choctaw Tribal Council Representatives, 2019-2021 Choctaw Indian Princess Elisah Monique Jimmie, first responders, Choctaw drummers and family members of individuals who passed away due to COVID-19 were present for this solemn occasion.
The event was livestreamed due to COVID restrictions preventing the public from attending the ceremony.
In his address, Chief Ben spoke about the challenges and heartbreaking losses due to COVID-19, yet he also gave acknowledgment and words of praise to the frontline employees, first responders and countless others who have worked tirelessly to take care of the needs of the Choctaw people and who have done their best to make sure essential services were not fully interrupted. He also encouraged everyone to continue the fight against COVID by following recommended safety guidelines.
Standing Pine Tribal Councilwoman Loriann Ahshapanek also spoke about the tragic circumstances that occurred for families who lost loved ones to the virus, and she also called for prayers for strength for each other.
Following the remarks, Chief Ben, Tribal Council members, and special guest Pamela Morrow unveiled the "hunky cross" as the central part of the newly-built COVID-19 Memorial. Morrow was the maker of the cross, and she donated it to the Tribe.
Chief Ben then signed a proclamation marking one year since the beginning of the State of Emergency on Tribal lands, to recognize March 12, 2021, as COVID-19 Pandemic Awareness Day, remembering those who have passed, honoring frontline and essential workers, reemphasizing the need to follow recommended safety guidelines and setting an appeal before the Lord for comfort for grief and sorrow and for God's light to shine upon everyone affected by COVID-19.
Once the ceremony concluded, guests were offered the opportunity to visit the new memorial.
“Let us all keep each other in prayers for continued strength in the fight against COVID-19,” the Tribe said.
Flags are being flown at half-staff at all Tribal buildings, grounds and enterprises beginning from sunrise on Friday, March 12 and will remain lowered until sunset on Monday, March 15 in honor and memory of the lives of the MBCI Tribal Members and loved ones lost to the COVID-19 pandemic.