Mekko Chebon

In November 2021 as part of an inaugural rematriation effort, Mvskoke (Creek) community members, living in Oklahoma, returned to their ancestral homeland, for a sacred Stomp Dance & cultural exchange that they graciously opened to the public.

That day, spiritual leader Mekko Chebon Kernell, of the Helvpe Ceremonial Grounds, in Eastern Oklahoma, introduced us to the river and land his people called Weelaunee. "Georgia's school system speaks of the Muscogee people as though we are from the past. We want folks to know that we are still here fighting for this Earth, land and water."

Mekko's message resonated deep in my heart and mind. I felt called in, as I acknowledged our interrelated roles in creating harmony and balance with this Earth, thru Weelaunee Forest.

Mekko has returned many times since to speak against Cop City and I’ve had the pleasure and honor to share space during those visits. Listening to his stories, in ceremony and stomping together are memories I will cherish. It is one of my life’s great joys to be in resistance together, against Cop City, to save Weelaunee for our collective futures.

Here is a coloring page I made to lift up Mekko’s life and message.