On Saturday, October 4th, the Sumter Tribe of Cheraw Indians agreed to support Muscogee Lodge’s American Indian Activities program, ensuring the lodge can offer an AIA program in 2026 and beyond. The Brothers of Muscogee Lodge sincerely appreciate Chief Francis Benenhaley for supporting our lodge, and Muscogee looks forward to supporting the Sumter Tribe of Cheraw at their tribal events.

Brothers may remember the new National OA policy, requiring lodges to enter into a formal agreement with a state or federally recognized Native American tribe in order for the lodge to offer an American Indian Activities program. Muscogee’s program is intended to honor the rich traditions of the Sumter Tribe of Cheraw, a tribe with which the Brothers of Muscogee Lodge have a special relationship. Several members of the tribe are also Brothers of Muscogee Lodge, having completed the Ordeal at Camp Coker under the legacy Santee Lodge (before our merger in 2022).

To get involved with the AIA program, join the #aia channel in Slack or contact the AIA Team directly. You can review the terms of our agreement below.