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- By Tribal Business News Staff
- Arts and Culture
The Cherokee Nation has become one of the first tribes to establish comprehensive artificial intelligence guidelines, signing a policy that allows AI use while protecting Cherokee language and culture.
Principal Chief Chuck Hoskin Jr. signed the policy Aug. 21, creating guidelines for responsible AI use across tribal government and business operations, according to a Cherokee Nation statement.
The policy permits AI for summarizing public information, brainstorming initiatives, drafting communications and developing code. However, it prohibits AI use without quality review and requires Cherokee language fluent speakers to provide input on any Cherokee language applications.
“AI is the future, and Cherokee Nation is working to embrace that future, but not at the expense of our language and culture,” Hoskin said in a statement.
A tribal study found 74% of Cherokee citizen participants were unfamiliar with AI or had only surface-level knowledge, highlighting the need for AI literacy programs, according to the statement. The tribe emphasized this need particularly for elders whose roles in language and culture preservation are key.
The policy resulted from a year of work by a data sovereignty task force established in 2024. It follows the Nation's initial AI projects, including grants research and website development.
Current projects include building a closed-source AI model for creating a knowledge base and drafting communications, plus 3D-printed turtle shells for stomp dance regalia. The shells eliminate the need to use real animals while maintaining cultural traditions.
“This AI policy will keep our exploration of AI within our reach and ensure it's used the right way and that our citizens are informed,” Deputy Chief Bryan Warner said.
An AI governance committee will review proposed AI tools and use cases, with authority to approve, restrict or prohibit them. The committee will ensure all uses align with Cherokee Nation values and include oversight by employees who understand the culture and language.
Chief of Staff Corey Bunch said AI should be used “only when it is secure, responsible, and assists us in our efforts to more efficiently serve the Cherokee people.”
Hundreds of employees attended a technology summit at the Chota Center in Tahlequah, featuring sessions on AI literacy, responsible use and demonstrations of closed-source AI systems.
