TULSA, Okla. – Osiyo, Voices of the Cherokee People, is coming to the Tulsa CW, giving local viewers a chance to explore Cherokee history, culture and the lives of Cherokee people around the world.
Former News On 6 anchor Jen Loren hosts the Emmy-winning series, which is entering its 12th season. She joined Dave Davis to talk about what viewers can expect from the show and why sharing Cherokee stories remains important.
Q: What can viewers expect from Osiyo, Voices of the Cherokee People?
Loren said the 30-minute show features short documentaries exploring Cherokee people’s lives, history and culture while challenging stereotypes about what it means to be Cherokee.
Q: How far does the show go to tell those stories?
The series has traveled across the country and around the world to meet Cherokee citizens, including trips to London and Palau. Loren said Cherokee people live throughout the United States and around the world.
Q: Is there one story that has really stayed with you?
Loren pointed to a recent episode featuring supermodel and actor Amber Valletta, who talked about how her Cherokee heritage influenced her work as an environmental activist. She also said stories involving Cherokee elders are especially meaningful to her.
Q: Why is Cherokee language featured on the show?
Loren said the show features Cherokee speakers, subtitles and short lessons teaching common words and phrases. She encouraged everyone, not just Cherokee people, to learn the language.
Q: Why is Osiyo important right now?
Loren said understanding Cherokee people is important because tribal nations are a major part of Oklahoma’s history and culture. She said the show gives viewers a chance to learn about their neighbors without having to travel to the Cherokee Nation.
Osiyo, Voices of the Cherokee People airs Sundays at 3 p.m. on the Tulsa CW…