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
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JEFFREY MATTHEW PRUITT
Obituary
Spybuck Art Reception
Event
Regular Executive Committee Meeting
Meeting
Board Vacancies - July 2026
Announcement
Special Executive Committee Meeting
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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
