Cherokee Nation adopts AI policy to safeguard language and culture

TAHLEQUAH, Okla. — The Cherokee Nation has adopted one of the first comprehensive artificial intelligence policies in Indian Country, establishing guidelines that encourage AI use while protecting Cherokee language and culture.

Turtles play a central role in Cherokee culture as everything from a symbol to being used for materials in traditional dances, food, and ceremonies. AI technology could lead to 3D printed scans of shells like these for more sustainable use in some of those events. (Photo: Wikimedia)

Principal Chief Chuck Hoskin Jr. signed the policy Aug. 21, creating standards for responsible AI use across tribal government and business operations, according to a Cherokee Nation statement.

The policy allows AI to be used for summarizing public information, brainstorming initiatives, drafting communications and developing code. It prohibits AI use without quality review and requires fluent Cherokee speakers to provide input on any language-based 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 the 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. Tribal officials emphasized the importance of engaging elders, who play key roles in language and cultural preservation.

The guidelines stemmed from a year of work by a data sovereignty task force created in 2024. They follow the Nation’s initial AI projects, including grants research and website development. Current efforts include building a closed-source AI model for drafting communications and creating a knowledge base, as well as producing 3D-printed turtle shells for stomp dance regalia — eliminating the need to use real animals while continuing 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 oversee proposed tools and use cases, with authority to approve, restrict or prohibit projects. The group will ensure all uses align with Cherokee Nation values and remain under cultural and language oversight.

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.”

The policy was introduced at a technology summit at the Chota Center in Tahlequah, where hundreds of employees attended sessions on AI literacy, responsible use and demonstrations of closed-source AI systems.