The Chickasaw Nation is seeking young Chickasaw ladies interested in serving as the ambassadors of the Nation.
The 2011-2012 Chickasaw Princess Pageant Program invites applications from contestants for an opportunity to be selected as Chickasaw royalty during the annual pageant Sept. 26 at the Ada High School Cougar Activity Center in Ada, Okla.
Young women between the ages of seven -11 will compete for the title of Little Miss Chickasaw, those between the ages of 12-16 compete for the title of Chickasaw Junior Princess and those between the ages of 17-25 compete for the title of Chickasaw Princess.
Princess applicants should be registered citizens of the Chickasaw Nation with a minimum of one-quarter Chickasaw blood quantum. Applicants must reside within the 13 counties of the Chickasaw Nation, be single and never married, not have children, not cohabit before or during their reign, be attending school or college and have a traditional Chickasaw dress.
Applications can be picked up at the Youth and Family Services building on Seabrook Road in Ada. They are also available online at www.chickasaw.net.
Applications must be returned to the Princess Program at the Division of Youth and Family Services, 231 Seabrook Road, Ada, Okla. 74820 by Friday, Aug. 26.
In addition to completing the application, princess hopefuls must submit a copy of the applicant's CDIB and Chickasaw citizenship card, an essay on "Why I want to be a Chickasaw Princess" and a 5x7 self-portrait.
During the pageant, young ladies will be judged on traditional Chickasaw dress, random questioning, talent and poise. The winners will be selected by a panel of judges and crowned by Chickasaw Nation Governor Bill Anoatubby. The new princesses will receive a crown, traditional dress, shawl, sash, trophy, gifts and cash prizes.
The heritage of the princesses goes back to 1963 when Ranell (James) Harry, daughter of former Chickasaw Governor Overton James, was appointed the first princess.
For more information, please call (580) 272-7710 or email Mary.Hartley@chickasaw.net.
