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
View All
Calendar
Newsletter

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
Read more

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.
Read more

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.
Read more

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
Read more

Tax Commission Motor Vehicle Tags

AST Tribal Members,
Due to the growing concerns about COVID-19, the Tax Commission is taking necessary steps to limit 
exposure to Tribal members.  Due to the mandated closure, our office will be closed to the general 
public from March 23 through April 3.  However, the tax staff will be doing its part in helping to 
alleviate any motor vehicle concerns by continuing to process through the outline procedures below:

FOR RENEWAL
OPTION   # 1 - BY MAIL.

Title VI Meal disbursement for March 23-27, 2020

Subject: Title VI Meal disbursement for March 23-27, 2020.

Due to the ongoing Coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic the Title VI meal program has made meal disbursement changes this week. In an effort to limit exposure to our elders while at the same time continuing to provide a very necessary service, we are implementing preventative measures. See the schedule below for elderly meals through the Title VI Program for the week of March 23-27th:

For homebound elders receive:

    Notice for Tribal Members and the Public

    The Absentee Shawnee Tribe has been monitoring the COVID-19 situation in conjunction with the Emergency Management Department and Health Systems. We have recently enacted additional procedures to safeguard the health and safety of our tribal members, staff and community.

    AST Easter Egg Hunt Canceled

    The Tribal Easter Egg hunt for April 4, 2020 has been canceled to help prevent the spread of the COVID-19 virus.

    AST closure for the week

    After further review of the CDC guidelines for the COVID-19, the Executive Committee has decided to keep the complex closed the remainder of the week. I highly recommend for all employees to please remain indoors and take all necessary precautions during this time. The EC is evaluating the situation on a daily basis so any new updates will be sent out as they come in. A new update for next week’s work schedule will be sent out on Friday, March 20, 2020. Thank you

    AST Tribal Elders Meeting

    The AST Tribal Elders meeting that was scheduled for March 28, 2020, has been canceled. Will be rescheduled at a later date.

    Thunderbird Casino Closure for Shawnee and Norman

    Dear Valued Patron,

    To protect the health and safety of our players, team members, and the community, Thunderbird Casinos in Norman and Shawnee will temporarily close effective March 17th at 12:00am to help prevent the spread of the COVID-19 virus.

    Important Notice

    The Absentee Shawnee Tribe (AST) is taking the COVID-19 public health crisis extremely seriously. We are working closely with the Centers for Disease Control and the Oklahoma State Department of Health to monitor the changing situation.  At this time, there are currently no known cases of COVID-19 within the AST system - tribal government or enterprises.  The AST Executive Committee is dedicated to protecting the health and welfare of our employees and will take each day on a case-by-case basis.

    Pages

    Subscribe to Front page feed