Muscogee Nation Council Greenlights Film Deal and Funds Sacred Site Protection

Context On May 12, the Muscogee Nation’s Land, Natural Resources, and Cultural Preservation Committee met in person to review two pieces of legislation. Both measures required full council approval before taking effect. The council, the tribe’s governing body, consists of three members who each cast a vote.

Key Facts - The council passed a resolution authorizing the Principal Chief to execute a location‑use agreement with Inclined Productions, Inc. The agreement covers audiovisual and photographic filming for Season 2 of the series *The Lowdown* at the Looped Square Meat Company property. The vote was unanimous, 3‑0, with Representative Robyn Whitecloud sponsoring the resolution. - In a separate vote, the council approved a law creating a special appropriation to fund protection measures for the Hickory Ground sacred site near Wetumpka, Alabama. Representative Darell Proctor sponsored this legislation, and it also passed unanimously, 3‑0. - The allocated funds will support legal defense, public‑relations efforts, and other services aimed at defending the site against ongoing threats, including recent disturbances linked to a casino development by the Poarch Band.

What It Means The filming agreement opens the Looped Square Meat Company location to a national production, potentially bringing economic activity and visibility to the tribe’s enterprises. By granting the Principal Chief authority to sign the contract, the council streamlines the process and signals confidence in the production’s compliance with tribal regulations. Simultaneously, the appropriation for Hickory Ground underscores the council’s commitment to cultural preservation. The money will enable the tribe to pursue legal action, manage public messaging, and protect the ceremonial ground from further desecration. This dual action reflects a broader strategy of leveraging economic opportunities while safeguarding heritage sites.

Looking Ahead Watch for the release of *The Lowdown* Season 2 and for any legal filings or public campaigns that arise from the new funding for Hickory Ground protection.