Hi ho   ne ho wa se   we ki ni
(Hello my good friend.)
"Procession Before War Dance", Ernest Spybuck    Credit: National Museum of the American Indian, Smithsonian Institution (02/5735).
Absentee Shawnee Tribe of Indians of Oklahoma
The Absentee Shawnee Tribe is primarily located in the heart of central Oklahoma with approximately 4,760 members who live in all parts of the world as of December 31, 2025. Our tribal government complex is located in Shawnee, Oklahoma. Our logo features Tecumseh, a Shawnee warrior and visionary leader, who worked to unite tribes in a common homeland where Indians could live under their own laws and leaders. He died in October 1813, in battle near the area of present day Thamesville, in Toronto, Canada. The LI-SI-WI-NWI in our logo means “Among the Shawnee”
Latest Announcements & Upcoming Events

Most Recent

JEFFREY MATTHEW PRUITT

Obituary

Spybuck Art Reception

Event

Regular Executive Committee Meeting

Meeting

Board Vacancies - July 2026

Announcement

Special Executive Committee Meeting

Meeting

Important Notice for Applicants Receiving Property Tax or Homeowner’s Insurance Assistance Through the HAF Program

Important Notice for Applicants Receiving Property Tax or Homeowner’s Insurance Assistance Through the HAF Program – General Program Updates  To: HAF Applicants (Past, Present, and Future),  We are writing to inform you of an important update regarding the Homeowner Assistance Fund (HAF) Program. Per guidance from the U.S. Department of the Treasury, the Period of Performance for HAF awards ends on September 30, 2026.  As a result, assistance provided through the HAF Program cannot extend beyond September 30, 2026.  While eligible applicants may still receive assistance for expenses incurred prior to that date, HAF funds cannot be used to cover any charges, premiums, installments, or obligations that occur after September 30, 2026.  We understand this change may create hardship and frustration for some applicants. We sincerely apologize for any inconvenience this may cause. At the time of award issuance, some applicants may have received award letters indicating approval for payment of property taxes, insurance, or other homeowner assistance expenses extending beyond September 30, 2026.   However, based on new guidance from the U.S. Department of the Treasury, we are required to update our program requirements and can no longer honor payments for any obligations that become due after September 30, 2026, regardless of prior award communications. We regret this change and understand the impact it may have, but we must comply with current federal guidance governing HAF funding.  We want to clarify that assistance for mortgage payments, property taxes, insurance and utility bills may still be available; however, all such assistance will be prorated and limited strictly to eligible costs incurred on or before September 30, 2026.  Please be advised that all approved assistance must comply with these federal program requirements and timelines.  If you have questions regarding your eligibility or outstanding expenses, please contact our office for additional guidance.  Sincerely,  AST HAF Program Coordinator, Keesha Mason  For more information about HAF, click here https://www.astribe.com/homeowner-assistance-fund-haf

Registration open for 2026 AST Language Classes

We are so excited to announce that registration is now open for 2026 AST Language Classes. Make sure you sign up today and Ka si wi nwi to wa pa - Let's Speak Shawnee! Deadline to sign up is February 7, 2026. To sign up online, click here,  https://laserfiche.astribe.com/Forms/language-enrollment-form  Deadline to register is February 7 2026.

JEFFREY MATTHEW PRUITT

It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Jeffrey Matthew Pruitt,55, of Brunswick, Maine who departed this life on Monday July 27, 2026, at his home with his loving wife by his side after a long illness. A loving and strong-willed individual, Jeffrey's presence will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him. Born in Long Beach, California, on January 11, 1971. He was Born to Freddie L. Williams and Patricia Pruitt. Jeffrey was a proud member of the Absentee Shawnee Tribe and Pawnee Nation of Oklahoma, carrying his Native American heritage with honor and respect throughout his life. Jeffrey completed his high school education, demonstrating his commitment to learning. He honorably served in the United States Navy, a period that shaped his disciplined and strong character. Following his military service, Jeffrey dedicated himself to working as a cook in various restaurants, where his skill and passion for food were evident. Jeffrey was a man of many passions. He found great joy in creating music, a testament to his artistic spirit. His dedication to martial arts showed his strength and discipline. He possessed a deep love for the ocean, often seeking solace and adventure by its shores. Camping, Kayaking and Fishing were among his favorite pastimes, and he cherished the moments spent cruising on a boat, or sailing. He particularly cherished his yearly sunset cruises with his beloved wife and good friends. His loving and kind nature touched the lives of many, balanced by his strong will which guided him through life's challenges. His family was the cornerstone of his life, and the bonds he shared with them were a source of immense strength and happiness. Jeffrey found spiritual connection and community at the Pathway Vineyard Church in Brunswick. Jeffrey Matthew Pruitt's legacy is one of love, strength, and a life lived with passion and purpose. He will be remembered for his kindness, his artistic talents, and his unwavering spirit. His memory will continue to inspire and comfort those he leaves behind. He is predeceased by his Father Freddie L. Williams, Stepmother Mary Williams, his Stepfather Nelson Pruitt, and His Brother Christopher Williams, a brother-in-law Richard Fortin, along with several aunts and uncles. He was also predeceased by two of his cats.  Tinkerbell and Brownie. Jeffrey is survived by his devoted and loving wife, Michelle Miles-Pruitt, along with their two cats Khloe and Teddy.  He is also survived by his Mother Patricia A. Cameron of Idaho, His siblings Mark Williams and wife Cheryl, Joseph Williams, Pamela Osborne, Tammy Hernendez all of California, Harold Pruitt and Gloria Pruitt of Colorado. As well as William Payne of Arizona. sister-in-laws Rose charette and Husband Brian, Deborah Fortin and Elizabeth Miles all of Maine. As well as many aunts, nieces, nephews and cousins and friends.

Spybuck Art Reception

All AST members are invited to a special reception celebrating the restoration of an original painting by Ernest Spybuck. WHEN: August 19, 2026, 1pm-8pm WHERE: 18800 E Highway 9, Norman, OK

AST 477 Education Fair 2025

AST Education Fair 2025
September 10 2025, 10 am - 3 pm.
Heart of Oklahoma Expo Center, 1700 W Independence Street, Shawnee, OK 74804
Discover campus life, academic programs and extracurricular programs. Visit with military recruiters, universities, votech, colleges and trade schools.
For more information, 405.878.4545 or www.astribe.com/477-program.
Open to everyone.

AST 477 Career & Resource Fair

AST 477 Career & Resource Fair
Wednesday September 17, 2025 10 am - 3 pm
The Well, 210 S James Garner Avenue, Norman, OK 73069
Get ready for our first Career & Resource Fair, where you can network with key individuals and discover new opportunities.
Questions? Melinda Ferrell or Keli Mitchell, 477 Outreach, 405.878.4545.
Event is open to everyone. 

AST 477 Parent Committee Meeting

AST 477 Parent Committee Meeting 
August 6, 2025
6-7:30 PM
AST Multi-Purpose Building
2029 James L Edwards Lane,Shawnee, OK 74801
Learn about the program & the parental rights to be engaged in your child's education.
Meet other parents. Get your questions answered. Discuss important information.

Regular Executive Committee Meeting

The Executive Committee of the Absentee Shawnee Tribe of Indians of Oklahoma, in accordance with the Constitution, Article XVI, Section 3, “Executive Committee Meetings” here by calls and declares public notice that the REGULAR meeting of the Executive Committee of the Absentee Shawnee Tribe of Indians of Oklahoma has been scheduled for Wednesday July 16, 2025 at 10 AM at the Absentee Shawnee Tribal Complex in Shawnee, Oklahoma.
Misty McGirt, Tribal Secretary
Absentee Shawnee Tribe of Oklahoma
Dated this 1st day of July 2025.

Public Health Presents Elders Thursdays Fun Day!

Public Health Presents Elders Thursdays Fun Day!
July 24th 11 am to 1 pm
AST Complex, Title VI Building
Lunch provided by Title VI if you are signed up with the program. $5 a meal if you are not signed up with Title VI
Elders 55 years and older, come and join the Public Health Department for fun games and activities with health education topics.
For more information contact:

Public Health Presents Elders Thursdays Fun Day!

Public Health Presents Elders Thursdays Fun Day!
July 10th 11 am to 1 pm
Little Axe Resource Center
Lunch provided by Title VI if you are signed up with the program. $5 a meal if you are not signed up with Title VI
Elders 55 years and older, come and join the Public Health Department for fun games and activities with health education topics.
For more information contact:

AST Public Health Drive-Thru School Supplies Event

AST Public Health Drive-Thru School Supplies Event
Ages K-12th grades
Wednesday July 30 from 4-6 pm
Child must be present to receive incentives
First come, first serve until we run out
Little Axe Health Center, 15951 Little Axe Drive, Norman, OK
AST Multi-Purpose Building, 2029 James L Edwards Drive, Shawnee, OK
For more information contact Beverly Felton at 405.701.7190 or bfelton@astribe.com

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