Top Stories from the Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma in 2024

DURANT, Okla. — A new year often brings a time of reflection on the previous 365 days.

For Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma, 2024 was filled with significant events, milestones and achievements by tribal members and the tribe as a whole. Here’s a look at some of the year’s top Stories:

Marvel Series “Echo” Premieres Highlighting Choctaw Nation

The five-episode series “Echo” began streaming on January 9, 2024, on Disney+ and Hulu, starring the first Native American superhero – who is Choctaw.

Marvel Studios worked closely with experts from Choctaw Nation to ensure accurate portrayals of Choctaw history, culture and language. A dedicated website, echo.choctawnation.com explores the cultural symbols, practices and beliefs embedded in the series’ narrative.

The Solar Eclipse Crosses Choctaw Nation

A total solar eclipse swept across the Choctaw Nation reservation on April 8, 2024, bringing thousands of spectators to view a rare celestial event where viewers saw the afternoon skies darken and an illuminated halo appear. Events were held at the Choctaw Cultural Center, Wheelock Academy and several of the Choctaw Casino and Resort locations. The Choctaw tale of Funi Lusa, the hungry squirrel who ate the sun and caused the eclipse, captivated national media outlets.

Choctaw Landing Opens

Choctaw Landing, a new 100-room luxury resort and casino, located in Hochatown, Oklahoma, opened its doors April 3 with a grand opening on May 23. Chief Gary Batton led the ribbon-cutting and celebration, which included around 300 attendees.

The $238 million resort created over 400 jobs in southeast Oklahoma and is expected to generate $95 million economic impact in the region.

Chief Gary Batton Marks 10 Years as Chief

The Choctaw Nation recognized and celebrated Chief Gary Batton’s 10^th anniversary in office on April 24, 2024. Chief Batton, who has served the Choctaw Nation for 37 years, became the 47th Chief on April 28, 2014, following Chief Gregory E. Pyle’s retirement.

Five Tribes Announce Hunting and Fishing Agreement

The Intertribal Council of the Five Civilized Tribes announced The Five Tribe Wildlife Management Reciprocity Agreement at its July quarterly meeting. Under the agreement hunting and fishing licenses issued by one tribe will be recognized by the other tribes on respective reservation lands. Tribal membership cards serve as credentials and Oklahoma residents with valid state-issued hunting and fishing licenses may hunt and fish within tribal treaty territories in accordance with all applicable laws.

“Together We’re More” Campaign Continues to Inspire

The “Together We’re More” campaign highlighting the Choctaw Proud – tribal members and others who serve the Choctaw Nation – continued to be featured in the acclaimed initiative. The year saw individuals featured in areas such as art, culture and competition.  Personal stories are shared through social media, advertising and in-depth features at togetherweremore.com.

Eternal Heart Sculpture Honors Irish Connection 

Dignitaries from Oklahoma and Ireland gathered at the Choctaw Capitol Grounds on Aug. 30 to unveil the “Eternal Heart” sculpture. Designed by tribal member Samuel Stitt, the 8-foot-tall sculpture intertwines  a Celtic trinity shape with a heart and faces Ireland. The piece commemorates the enduring bond between the Choctaw Nation and the people of Ireland.

Economic Impact Study Released

An economic impact study released in 2024 revealed the Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma contributed $3.2 billion to Oklahoma’s economy in 2021. The report highlighted the Nation’s support of 20,142 jobs and $1 billion in wages and benefits paid to Oklahomans, underscoring the tribe’s role as a major economic force in the state.