"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 4,775 members who live in all parts of the world as of June 30, 2026. 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
AST Health System Flu Vaccines Open to Public October 2026 Dates
Announcement
Indigenous Peoples' Day Closure
Announcement
AST Shawnee Language Fair & Stomp Dance
Event
AST 477 Program 2026 Education & Career Fair
Event
Special Executive Committee Meeting
Meeting
Indigenous Peoples' Day Closure
THE ABSENTEE SHAWNEE TRIBE WILL BE CLOSED MONDAY, OCTOBER 12, 2026
IN OBSERVANCE OF INDIGENOUS PEOPLES' DAY
AST Shawnee Language Fair & Stomp Dance!!!
WHEN - November 7, 2 pm to 11 pm
WHERE - Thunderbird Event Center, 15700 E State Highway 9, Norman, OK.
For questions or help with submissions, please email ASTLanguage@astribe.com
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.
The Behavioral Health department and SASP grant invites you to attend the weekly Wellbriety Working Lunch, facilitated by John Soap! The Wellbriety meetings are virtual and free, and can provide you with a support group to help you on your journey to recovery. For further information about what these meetings entail, please view the provided flyer.
“The Native Connections & SASP Grants are hosting a summer long “Culture is Prevention” series featuring new cultural outreach events each week! The first week’s event will be a free and virtual class on Thursday, May 27th at 6:00 PM CST via GoToMeeting. In this class you will learn how to make a beaded keychain facilitated by Comanche artist, Josh DeBartolo.
The Driveway Assistance Program provides the necessary materials, labor, and/or contract services to improve the existing driveways to Tribal Members existing homes. Improvements shall include the rehabilitation of existing driveways to improve the mobility of Tribal Members.
Our AST Gift Shop (Shawnee Location) is now open to ALL by appointment only Monday–Friday 8am -5pm.
We are also still adhering to CDC guidelines. We will require your temperature to be taken before entering our building and masks must be worn properly to enter. We will only allow 2 customers in at a time and we request that social distancing (six feet) is maintained.
You May Be Eligible for a $0 Cost Health Plan Under the American Rescue Plan.
Help yourself, help your tribe and see if you will qualify for coverage that will provide you and your family with immediate access to specialized healthcare at no cost to you or your tribe.
Did you know? The American Rescue Plan (ARP), recently signed into law by President Biden, increases and expands eligibility for cost-savings programs under the Affordable Care Act (ACA) in the form of premium cost assistance for individuals enrolled in Health Insurance Marketplace plans.
Join the Native Connections & SASP Grants in a free and virtual scavenger hunt for SAMHSA’s National Prevention Week happening May 9-15, 2021. To participate simply download the GooseChase App on your phone, enter the game code, and complete missions to tally up points for a chance to win prizes! This activity is open to ages 12-24 years old and each participant will receive a free t-shirt simply for participating.