Traditional hog fry brings United Keetoowah Band community together

TAHLEQUAH, Okla. — The United Keetoowah Band and Echota Behavioral Health brought community members together through a traditional hog fry held in observance of Native American Heritage Month, emphasizing food sovereignty, cultural practice and intergenerational connection.

Larry Prittchett(UKB) photo: Giduwa Cherokee News

The Food Sovereignty Event began early in the day with the processing of two hogs donated by the Oklahoma State University Department of Agriculture. Community members demonstrated traditional methods of preparing the hogs, adapting long-standing practices to modern equipment while preserving customary techniques.

“The last time I saw this process done, I was about five years old,” said Kaleb Proctor, a member of Echota Behavioral Health’s prevention team. “My family used to do this, and I’ve watched elders do it as well. Traditionally the hog would be hung from a tree, but this time we adapted and used a tractor. It’s normally an all-day process.”

Preparation and cooking continued throughout the morning, with the meal served at midday. Youth volunteers assisted by serving elders in attendance, organizers said.

“Our youth enjoy volunteering and are always asking when the next event will be,” said Angel Wolfe, also with the EBH prevention team.

In addition to the hog fry, the event featured volleyball, stickball, painting and bingo. Tradition Keeper Lena Deere and her daughter, Jesseca, led a painting activity for participants.

Organizers said the activities were designed to allow elders and adults to gather in fellowship while children engaged in outdoor and cultural activities.

The gathering was well attended, organizers said, reflecting continued interest in community-based cultural events centered on tradition and shared experience.

Original article by LANI HANSEN, Senior Reporter for Giduwa Cherokee News