Joseph Price - Rhetorical Arsonist for Justice

My name is Joseph Price, a proud Cherokee Nation Tribal Citizen and lifelong resident of Oklahoma. My journey has been deeply influenced by my heritage and upbringing, instilling in me a commitment to protect the rights and sovereignty of Native American communities.

Over the years, I’ve become increasingly involved in legal battles and activism that not only impact my life but also have broader implications for the people of Oklahoma and beyond. This brief autobiography is intended to give you a sense of who I am, my values, and what drives me to stand up for justice.

Early Life and Heritage

I spent my childhood in Salina, Kenwood, and Locust Grove, Oklahoma—three communities that hold significant meaning for me. These places, rich in Cherokee culture and history, shaped my early understanding of the world and my place in it. My roots in these communities have always been a guiding force, instilling in me a deep sense of duty to protect the rights and dignity of my people. Today, Locust Grove remains my primary home, where I continue to live and work for the Cherokee Nation in Tahlequah, Oklahoma.

Education and Early Career

Education has always been a cornerstone of my life. I graduated from Northeastern State University with a Bachelor’s Degree in Legal Studies, a field that allowed me to deepen my understanding of the law and its impact on society. This academic foundation has been instrumental in my legal advocacy work, equipping me with the tools needed to fight for justice and equality in the courtroom.

After completing my education, I pursued various opportunities that allowed me to engage with and contribute to my community. My career path has been diverse, ranging from work in local businesses to roles that involved advocacy and public service. Throughout my professional journey, I have always sought to uphold the values of integrity, fairness, and respect for others, principles that are deeply rooted in my Cherokee upbringing.

Activism and Advocacy

My commitment to activism began to take shape as I became more involved in issues affecting Native American communities. One of the pivotal moments in my journey was my participation in a rally against Tulsa’s attack on the McGirt v. Oklahoma decision. In this landmark case, the U.S. Supreme Court ruled that much of eastern Oklahoma remains Native American land for criminal jurisdiction purposes. The decision reaffirmed the reservation status of the Muscogee (Creek) Nation, and by extension, other tribes in Oklahoma, including the Cherokee Nation.

In 2021, I joined fellow Cherokees in leading a rally to protest Tulsa’s efforts to undermine this crucial decision. The rally was not just a stand against Tulsa’s actions but a broader defense of tribal sovereignty and the rights of Native American nations across the country. My involvement in this rally is a reflection of my broader commitment to ensuring that the rights of Native Americans are respected and upheld at all levels of government​ (Interactive Host for the Frontier).

Legal Battles

My activism has naturally led to my involvement in legal advocacy, particularly in cases that challenge the overreach of state authority into Native American affairs. My current lawsuits, including those against the Oklahoma Tax Commission and the Oklahoma Bible Mandate, are driven by a commitment to uphold the constitutional rights of all citizens and to protect the sovereignty of Native American tribes.

• Challenging Unfair Tax Practices: My lawsuit against the Oklahoma Tax Commission is a fight for the rights of tribal members who have been unfairly targeted by state tax practices. Backed by landmark decisions like McGirt v. Oklahoma and Oklahoma Tax Commission v. Sac and Fox Nation, I am standing up against these unlawful practices to ensure that tribal sovereignty is respected and upheld.

  
  

• Defending Religious Freedom: In addition to my tax lawsuit, I am also challenging the recent Bible mandate issued by the Oklahoma State Superintendent, which requires the inclusion of the Bible in public school curriculums. This mandate is not only a violation of the separation of church and state but also a threat to the cultural and religious diversity that defines our state.

  
  

Personal Life

Beyond my legal battles and activism, I am a Dad and Grandpa who values the time spent with loved ones and friends. My circle of friends and family is my greatest support system, and their encouragement fuels my determination to continue fighting for justice. When I’m not working or advocating, I enjoy immersing myself in the natural beauty of Oklahoma, exploring the landscapes that have been home to my ancestors for generations.

Looking Forward

As I continue on this journey, my focus remains on making a positive impact, not only for my community but for all Oklahomans and Tribal Citizens. The challenges we face are significant, but with perseverance, respect for the law, and a deep commitment to justice, I believe we can overcome them.

Thank you for taking the time to learn a little more about me. I invite you to join me in these important battles and to stand with me as we work towards a fairer and more just society for all.

Joseph Price