Our Government
A Nation Rooted Ontop a Strong Foundation
Creating a strong foundation of inclusion, participation and representation of all eligible members, based on our constitution.
Government Structure
Implementing secure government structure and roles is a vital step toward restoring our autonomy and recognition. The government structure of the Nation is comprised of one Legislative Council, one Cultural & Historical Preservation Council, and one Tribal Chairman unilaterally aligned. See below for more information on each:
Tribal Council
Eight (8) Elected Council Representatives responsible for legislative (lawmaking) processes, appointing council officers (Chair, Vice-Chair, Treasurer, and Secretary), confirming tribal judges, and governance including approving budgets and setting long-term goals.
One (1) elected Chief (ex-officio); Power to Call for a Referendum.
Ruyà·ner (Chief)
One (1) elected official who serves at the Chief Executive of The Nation, responsible for business operations, administrative duties, and public relations; Power to Call Referendum; ex-officio Council Member
Tribal Court
A panel of Five (5) Chief-appointed, Council-confirmed judges who ensure that laws are created and enforced in accordance with the Constitution and facilitate civil and criminal proceedings. Judges shall also preside over civil or criminal cases involving one or more TIOKT Citizen(s).
Tribal Administrator
Serves at the discretion of the Ruyà·ner to oversee the Administrate Office and Subsidiary Departments. The Administrative Office provides business, administrative, and human resource oversight to each of the tribal government departments.
Candidate Nomination Information
All Candidate Nominations will be managed by the GWE Committee. Nominations information below:
- Nominations can be made by submitting the Candidate Nomination Packet (including the Candidate Application Form and proof of eligibility) by the deadline of January 1, 2025.
- Nomination Packets may be submitted via email or postal service.
- Nominees will receive criminal background checks.
Eligibility to Run and Hold Office
- Must be enrolled.
- Reside in North Carolina.
- Be at least eighteen years of age for Elected Council.
- Be at least thirty (30) years of age for Chief.
- Cannot be convicted of any felony or crimes of moral turpitude (theft, fraud, etc.).