USM Stickball Organization

Happy Indigenous Peoples’ Day!! Today, we celebrate the resilience and preservation of Indigenous history, cultures, and rich contributions of Indigenous tribes. Over the Labor Day weekend, we had the opportunity to witness and capture these values firsthand at the Choctaw Labor Day Festival in Tushkahoma, Oklahoma. Many surrounding tribes, including the Mississippi Band of Choctaw Indians, had travelled to unify and share the "Kabotcha" experience together. The stickball tournament was highlighted throughout the festival to showcase the strength, unity, and pride among multiple indigenous tribes while honoring those who lost their lives during the Indian Removal Act of 1830, also known as the Trail of Tears.

Today, we recognize and celebrate the enduring strength and resilience of Native communities in overcoming the challenges of colonization.

We extend our sincere gratitude to the Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma for allowing us to document these meaningful moments. Yakoki! ⚫️🟡🔴⚪️

Kabotcha Toli or “the little brother of war” is a Native American Stickball game traditionally used to settle disputes amongst different tribes, communities, and even large families. Today, the World Series Stickball Tournament is held every July at the Choctaw Indian Fair in Choctaw, Mississippi. This game highlights the importance of cultural preservation and resilience, honoring our ancestors by fostering unity amongst the Choctaw people. It also plays a vital role in the character development of young warriors and lady warriors, guiding them towards a brighter future, while supporting those who are battling illness, and paying tributes to those who have passed away.

A big shoutout to Choctaw Indian Fair and Mississippi Band of Choctaw Indians for giving us this amazing opportunity and allowing us to capture these moments showcasing our version of Chahta Kabotcha, “The Little Brother of War.”