Uriah Grass, a 46-year-old traditional Cherokee man and dedicated community servant, is running for the District 4 seat on the Cherokee Nation Council.
A direct descendant of Redbird Smith and other prominent traditional Cherokee leaders, Grass has deep roots in the Cherokee Nation, shaped by his upbringing in a Cherokee-speaking home. He is a dedicated lifelong member of Stokes Smith ceremonial grounds, and was raised with the true spirit of “Gadugi.” He plans to carry on that same idea if elected.
Married to Leslie Merrill Grass, the couple has five children, Leo, Tommo, William, Yonsi and Sanali, all of whom have been raised with the values of perseverance, compassion and cultural pride.
With 17 years of nursing experience—10 of which were spent working for the Cherokee Nation—Grass has dedicated his career to improving the lives of members of his community. His extensive healthcare background includes working at Redbird Smith Health Center in pediatrics and primary care, caring for the terminally ill in hospice, and serving as an infection control nurse at a local hospital.
His dedication to his community extends far beyond healthcare. Grass has served on the local Johnson-O’Malley (JOM) board, and worked for JOM, supporting educational programs and services for Native American students and volunteers anywhere he can in the community. Grass also previously served on the local volunteer fire department, further demonstrating his dedication to protecting and serving his community.
For over 20 years, he has volunteered in multiple communities along with various youth organizations, which includes director of Sallisaw Youth League Basketball, and recently launching a new youth program in Vian. Additionally, whether it be teaching, coaching, refereeing, umpiring or volunteering, Grass has worked with children at Porum, Ft. Gibson, Warner, Braggs, Gore, Webbers Falls and surrounding areas.
His passion for Cherokee culture and his people is unwavering. He has spent the entirety of his life participating in traditional Cherokee song and dance, cultural practices and traditional stickball games, as well as participating in competitive stick ball with various tribal nations.
As an adult, Grass has used his knowledge of cultural practices to educate the public at various schools and community events, as well as leading cultural demonstrations.
If elected, his primary goals include increasing activities for children in District 4, providing enhanced support and care for elders, and ensuring that Cherokee culture is preserved and passed down to future generations. He is committed to bringing more information and resources to the rural areas of District 4, ensuring every voice is heard, and making certain that the needs of his community are met. He is committed to serving District 4 and being actively present in the community— alongside the people, for the people.
“I have a servant’s heart, and I am ready to work for you and with you,” Grass said.
Running for Council was not a rash decision. Grass has aspired to serve on the Tribal Council since graduating from Haskell Indian Nations University in 2000.
“I have been working for the Cherokee people my whole life, and now is the time to put myself in a position where I can do even more. I want to make District 4 a place where our children thrive, our elders are cared for and our traditions are honored,” he said.
Strong leadership starts with understanding the past and shaping the future. As a young and passionate advocate, Grass is ready to stand up and fight for you when needed. He dedicates himself to understanding current programs so he can effectively inform and support others. He has the vision, determination and energy to ensure we all move forward together.
Grass is committed to ensuring every Cherokee citizen has the opportunity to participate in the election. If you need assistance registering, require an absentee ballot or want to learn more about him, you can contact him at 918360-9163.
