Frequently Asked Questions

Do you have to be enrolled in the Muscogee (Creek) Nation to run?

Yes, all contestants will need to provide proof of citizenship with the Muscogee (Creek) Nation. You also cannot be duel enrolled with another tribe to be eligible.



How old do you have to be to run?

For the role of Miss Muscogee (Creek) Nation, the ages are 18-24. For the role of Jr. Miss Muscogee (Creek) Nation, the ages are 14-17. All ages are by January 1 of current application year.



What are the other qualifications?

Contestants must: - Have GPA of 2.5 or higher - Be enrolled in school (high school, vocational school, or college) - Reside in the state of Oklahoma - Own or have access to traditional Mvskoke clothing (Vendors are available during Royalty Retreat) - Must not be engaged, married, divorced or cohabitating with significant other - Cannot be pregnant or parenting - Must be drug and alcohol free *Other qualifications may apply as determined yearly.



Do you have to live in Oklahoma?

Yes, the contestant must reside in the state of Oklahoma.



What is the judging criteria?

The Pageant changes from year to year, but generally there are 4 stages, each with their own tasks. For example: Stage 1: Due with Application - Introduction Letter (20 points) Stage 2: Due at the Royalty Retreat - Essay (30 points) - Mvskoke Knowledge Quiz (10 bonus points) Stage 3: Due Day of the Pageant - Interview (40 points) Stage 4: Due at the Pageant - Self-Introduction & Traditional Dress (30 points) - Cultural Talent/Presentation (40 points) - Impromptu Question (40 points) Judging criteria and point scales are subject to change every year, check the Application Packet.



What should I do for the cultural talent/presentation?

The cultural talent/presentations must highlight the Mvskoke culture. It may consist of, but not limited to: singing, dancing, playing a musical instrument, dramatic reading, speech, storytelling, art display, dress designing, etc.



What should be included in the Introduction Letter?

Contestants should include information about who they are, what makes them the best candidate, and how they will use the title to promote their platform and the Muscogee (Creek) Nation. The letter must be 500 words maximum. Include: - Career ambition - Honors and Awards - Hobbies and interests - Activities - Interesting facts about yourself - Platform statement (describe the issue/cause that you'll promote during your reign)



What is a platform?

A platform is a cause, issue, or subject that contestants hope to bring awareness or a solution to throughout their reign. Past year platforms include: Promoting Literacy, COVID Awareness & Prevention, MMIWG2, Diabetes Awareness



Is there a minimum blood quantum required to run?

No, we do not discriminate against blood quantum.



Do I have to know the Mvskoke Language?

At Royalty Retreat, you will be assigned a Language Instructor to help you and prepare you for using the language to your best capabilities.



How does scheduling work during reign?

- Each event is pre-approved by the coordinator and the royalty - The coordinator will work with sport, extracurricular, and school schedules to their best ability



What do I pay for during events?

All events that are local will have transportation and any admission fees covered. You will only need food money. Out of state events will have transportation, admissions fees, and a per diem for food covered.



When I win, what do I get?

Miss: - $2,500 to be dispersed quarterly Jr Miss: - $1,500 to be dispersed quarterly Both: - Use of the silver crown for their reign - A beaded crown that they get to keep - 2 sashes each - Woven basket purse - Cedar crown box - Trophy - $300 to purchase traditional clothing - Duffel bag - Backpack - Pendleton Blanket - Jacket



Still have unanswered questions? Email us and we'll be happy to get you the answers you need.