The goal of the Speakers Council is to “be the primary representation of the Eastern Band of the Cherokees on all matter regarding language, translations, traditions and culture.” Established in 2019 through tribal resolution, the Speakers Council serves as a cultural advisory committee. Their meetings are almost entirely held in the Cherokee language and are made up of mostly fluent speakers. Each member of the Council is dedicated to preserving the language. As part of a Cherokee initiative to enhance and strengthen Cherokee education with an emphasis on heritage and language, Principal Chief Richard Sneed secured funding for a Speakers Council building that will occupy a prominent location along U.S. Highway 441. The facility will provide the Council with meeting facilities, proper support spaces and appropriate cultural references such as an indigenous plant garden and quiet reflection area visible from the main meeting room. A sweeping, east-facing, cantilevered roof provides an “open arms” welcome to visitors and Council members alike while providing shelter from inclement weather. The project is expected to open in late 2023.