The Kickapoo Tribe of Oklahoma has a rich history that began in the Great Lakes region, where they were first encountered by Europeans in the mid-1600s. They are part of the Algonquian language family and are closely related to the Sac and Fox tribes. Over time, the Kickapoo migrated southward due to pressure from other tribes and European settlers, eventually settling in areas that are now Illinois, Indiana, Missouri, Kansas, and finally Oklahoma. In 1936, under the Oklahoma Indian Welfare Act, they reorganized as the Kickapoo Tribe of Oklahoma, with their headquarters in McLoud.
Interesting Facts:
The name "Kickapoo" is believed to mean "those who walk the earth," reflecting their migratory history.
The tribe's jurisdictional area includes parts of Pottawatomie and Lincoln counties in Oklahoma.
The Kickapoo Tribe of Oklahoma operates its own housing authority and issues tribal vehicle tags.
What is the tribe's most recent population census?
As of the latest available data, the Kickapoo Tribe of Oklahoma has 2,630 enrolled tribal members, with 1,856 residing within the state of Oklahoma. The tribal area tracked by the U.S. Census has a population of approximately 20,000, with 13 percent identifying as Native American.
What is the language spoken by the tribe?
The Kickapoo people speak the Kickapoo language, which is part of the Central Algonquian branch of the Algic language family. It is closely related to the Meskwaki (Fox) language and is characterized as a tone language, meaning that pitch can change the meaning of words . The language is traditionally spoken in Oklahoma, Kansas, Texas, and Coahuila, Mexico.
Is there a language revitalization program in the tribe?
The Kickapoo Tribe of Oklahoma has implemented a comprehensive language revitalization program. This includes a Master-Apprentice program, teacher training, and the development of multimedia resources such as films and podcasts. The program aims to train ten fluent speakers in its initial year, with plans to expand to over 40 students.
Does the tribe have any Christian history?
Christianity has been present among the Kickapoo Tribe of Oklahoma since the 19th century, with missionaries playing a significant role in introducing the gospel. One of the most influential figures in this effort was the Kickapoo religious leader Kenekuk, who embraced Christian teachings and became known as the "Kickapoo Prophet." He led a religious movement that combined elements of Christianity with moral reform, helping his people turn away from alcohol and violence. Missionaries, particularly from Protestant backgrounds, followed and established missions, schools, and churches among the Kickapoo. Jesuit missionaries were active in the region and worked to translate Bible passages and hymns into the Kickapoo language, encouraging tribal members to participate in Christian worship and sacraments. Some Kickapoo leaders were baptized, and Christian hymns became part of their religious experience. Though traditional beliefs remained, Christian missionaries left a lasting legacy, planting seeds of faith and helping to establish a foundation for continued gospel outreach in the tribe today.
Is there a Bible in the language of the tribe?
Currently, there is no complete Bible translation in the Kickapoo language. However, efforts have been made to produce religious materials in Kickapoo. For instance, the "Words of Life" series includes Bible stories and hymns in the Kickapoo language, aiming to provide spiritual resources to the community.
Are there any Bible translation efforts in the tribe?
While there is no full Bible translation in Kickapoo, initiatives like the "Words of Life" series have been developed to share Bible stories and hymns in the language. These efforts are part of broader language preservation and revitalization programs that include religious content to support the spiritual and linguistic needs of the Kickapoo people
Are there any gospel hymns in the tribe’s language?
Yes, gospel hymns have been translated into the Kickapoo language. The "Words of Life" recordings feature hymns and Bible stories in Kickapoo, providing spiritual music resources for the community . These hymns are part of the tribe's efforts to preserve their language and cultural heritage through music and storytelling.
