Starr Scott: A Legacy of Leadership and Service in the Cherokee Nation
Starr Scott was a dedicated public servant, entrepreneur, and advocate who left an indelible mark on the Cherokee Nation. From her early years in Oklahoma to her influential tenure on the tribal council, her life was defined by a commitment to her community and the advancement of tribal governance.
Early Life and Education
Born on May 19, 1939, in Claremore, Oklahoma, Starr Scott was the second of five children born to Lacy Fallingpot-Starr and Buelah Benton Hendren Fallingpot-Starr. She spent her formative years in Eucha, though her family was forced to relocate to Rattlesnake Hollow in 1952 due to the construction of Lake Eucha.
Scott graduated from Jay High School in 1957. Driven by a desire for further knowledge, she continued her education at both Haskell Indian Junior College and Tulsa Junior College.
Professional Career and Entrepreneurship
Before entering the political arena, Starr Scott built a diverse professional background. She spent many years as a hairdresser, operating her own home-based business in Bixby, Oklahoma. Later, she transitioned into the healthcare sector, serving as a dental assistant for the Indian Health Service, a federal agency providing health services to American Indians and Alaska Natives.
In addition to her professional roles, Scott was an entrepreneur. Alongside her husband, Arthur Calvin Scott—whom she married on November 13, 1958—she established the "Lil Indian Smoke Shop" in Jay, Oklahoma. The family business was a collaborative effort, run with the help of their son, Calvin Jay, and his wife, Rhonda.
Political Leadership and Tribal Governance
Starr Scott's commitment to her people led her to the Cherokee Nation tribal council, where she represented the multi-member district 5, covering Delaware and Ottawa counties. She served two distinct terms: from 1983 to 1987 and again from 1995 to 1999.
During her tenure, Scott was deeply involved in the administrative and legislative functions of the tribe. She chaired the health committee and co-chaired the executive and finance committees. Her influence extended to several other areas, including community development, rules, language, and education. A primary focus of her work was the advocacy for improved healthcare services for the citizens of the Cherokee Nation.
In 1987, Scott sought the office of deputy chief of the Cherokee Nation. In a closely contested race, she placed second to the incumbent, John Letcher, with 3,906 votes compared to Letcher's 4,763.
The Starr-Scott Proposal
One of Scott's most lasting contributions occurred during the 1999 Cherokee Nation constitutional convention. She supported a proposal to establish two at-large districts on the tribal council. This initiative, known as the Starr-Scott proposal, was successfully adopted and integrated into the 1999 Cherokee Nation constitution.
FBI Investigation into Wiretapping
In 1997, Scott was involved in a Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) inquiry regarding illegal wiretapping among tribal officials. During the investigation, she was asked to identify her voice in recordings to determine if wiretap violations had occurred. The focus of the FBI's investigation was the act of wiretapping itself rather than the specific content of the conversations.
Key Facts
- Born: May 19, 1939, in Claremore, Oklahoma.
- Education: Graduate of Jay High School, Haskell Indian Junior College, and Tulsa Junior College.
- Political Service: Represented District 5 on the Cherokee Nation tribal council (1983–1987, 1995–1999).
- Major Achievement: The "Starr-Scott proposal" helped shape the 1999 Cherokee Nation constitution.
- Professional Roles: Business owner (hairdresser and smoke shop) and Indian Health Service dental assistant.
- Passed Away: December 6, 2020, at age 81.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Early Life | Born in Claremore; raised in Eucha and Rattlesnake Hollow |
| Businesses | Home hairdressing; Lil Indian Smoke Shop |
| Healthcare Role | Dental Assistant, Indian Health Service |
| Council Committees | Chair of Health; Co-chair of Executive and Finance |
| Constitutional Impact | Created at-large districts via the Starr-Scott proposal |
Beyond her public life, Starr Scott was a passionate collector of Native American jewelry, preserving the artistry and heritage of her culture. She passed away on December 6, 2020, leaving behind a legacy of civic duty and community empowerment.
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the Starr-Scott proposal?
The Starr-Scott proposal was a successful initiative during the 1999 Cherokee Nation constitutional convention that created two at-large districts on the tribal council.
Which districts did Starr Scott represent on the tribal council?
She represented the multi-member district 5, which encompasses Delaware and Ottawa counties.
What were Starr Scott's primary professional roles before politics?
She was a self-employed hairdresser and later worked as a dental assistant for the Indian Health Service.
Did Starr Scott ever hold the position of deputy chief?
No, she ran for the position in 1987 but placed second to the incumbent, John Letcher.
What was the nature of the FBI investigation involving Starr Scott?
The investigation focused on illegal wiretapping among tribal officials; Scott was asked to identify her voice in recordings to assist the FBI in determining if wiretap violations had occurred.