Resolution of the Cherokee Nation in general meeting affirming acceptance of Chief John Ross's Proclamation of Neutrality in the conflict between the States.
W
hereas we the Cherokee people have been invited by the Executive of the Cherokee Nation, in compliance with the request of many citizens, to meet in general meeting, for the purpose of drawing more closely the bonds of friendship and sympathy which should characterize our conduct and mark our feelings toward each other in view of the difficulties and dangers which have arisen from the fearful condition of affairs among the people of the several States, and for the purpose of giving a free and frank expression of the real sentiments we cherish toward each other and our true position in regard to questions which affect the general welfare, and particularly on that of the subject of slavery:Wherefore,
Be it hereby resolved, That we fully approve the neutrality recommended by the Principal Chief in the war pending between the United and Confederate States and to Gen. McCulloch our thanks for the respect he has shown for our position.
Resolved, That we renew the pledges given by the Executive of this nation of the friendship of the Cherokees toward the people of all the States, and particularly toward those on our immediate border, with whom our relations have been harmonious and cordial, and from whom they should not be separated.
Resolved, That we also take occasion to renew to the Creeks, Choctaws, Seminoles, Chickasaws, and Osages assurances of continued friendship and brotherly feeling.
Resolved, That we hereby disavow any wish or purpose to create or perpetuate any distinction between the citizens of our country as to the full and mixed blood, but regard each and all as our brothers, and entitled to equal rights and privileges, according to the constitution and laws, of the nation.
Resolved, That we proclaim an unwavering attachment to the constitution and laws of the Cherokee Nation, and solemnly pledge ourselves to defend and support the same, and as far as in us lies to secure to the citizens of this nation all the rights and privileges which they guarantee to them.
Resolved, That among the rights guaranteed by the constitution and laws we distinctly recognize that of property in negro slaves, and hereby publicly denounce as calumniators those who represents us as Abolitionists, and as a consequence hostile to the South, which is both the land of our birth and the land of our homes.
Resolved, That the great consideration with that nationality--and to defend our lives and integrity hereby pledge ourselves to mutually sustain our Cherokee people--should be a united and harmonious support and defense of their common rights and of our homes and soil, whenever the same shall be wantonly assailed by lawless marauders.
Resolved, That reposing full confidence in the constituted authorities of the Cherokee Nation we submit to their wisdom the management of all questions which affect our interests growing out of the exigencies of the relations between the United and Confederate States of America, and which may render an alliance on our part with the latter States expedient and desirable.
And which resolutions, upon the question of their passage being put, were carried by acclamation.
Tahlequah, C. N.
August 21, 1861
JOSEPH VANN, President
W. P. ROSS, Secretary