Stalking is a pattern of repeated, unwanted, and intrusive behavior aimed at controlling or intimidating another person. It can involve a range of actions, from following the victim in person or online to sending excessive texts, emails, or gifts. Stalking is often driven by a desire for power or control and can occur between people who have a prior relationship, such as ex-partners, or between strangers. The behavior becomes problematic when the victim feels unsafe, threatened, or harassed, leading to emotional, psychological, and even physical harm.
There are several warning signs that someone may be stalking another person. These can include persistent attempts to contact or communicate with the victim, such as repeated phone calls, texts, or social media messages despite clear requests to stop. Stalkers may also show up uninvited at the victim’s home, workplace, or social gatherings, or even engage in surveillance, such as following the person in public or installing tracking devices. Other signs of stalking may include sending unwanted gifts, spreading rumors, or threatening the victim or their loved ones. The victim might also feel the stalker is constantly watching them, whether through social media or physical presence.
If you believe you are being stalked, it is important to seek help immediately. Start by documenting all incidents of stalking, including dates, times, and descriptions of what happened, as this can serve as evidence if legal action is necessary. You should also avoid contact with the stalker and, if possible, change your contact information and online privacy settings. If you feel your safety is at risk, consider contacting tribal law enforcement, who can guide you through the process of obtaining a restraining order.
Additionally, there are many support services, including hotlines and counseling, that can help victims of stalking cope with the emotional and psychological impact. The Shawnee Tribes Behavioral Health and Domestic Violence Department provides therapy and case management to those who have been stalked. It’s crucial to take stalking seriously and take steps to protect yourself, as this behavior can escalate into more severe forms of violence.
Check out the Behavioral & Mental Health Department for more information.
The Shawnee Tribe is accepting public comments from tribal citizens about the Low Income Home Energy Program (LIHEAP) in preparation for next fiscal year, which begins October 1. All Shawnee households residing in the state of Oklahoma are encouraged to provide comments. Submit comments here through Monday, August 27, 2026. The LIHEAP program also still has funding […]
The Shawnee Tribe is proud to celebrate the accomplishments of Marina Staubus, whose artwork Whispers in the Wind earned First Place in the Painting category at the 2026 55th Annual Trail of Tears Art Show in Tahlequah, Oklahoma. Marina, a Shawnee Tribe citizen, continues a family tradition of service and dedication to the Tribe as the daughter of Mike Staubus, […]
A traditional bow-making workshop recently brought together Shawnee youth and cultural instructors to share knowledge, skills, and values that have been passed down through generations. The opportunity began when a request was made to teach Shawnee relatives the traditional craft of bow making. Having previously shared these skills with Muscogee participants, the instructors were honored […]
By David Pollack, A. Gwynn Henderson, and Edward R. Henry A people’s relationship to their homeland is dynamic. How they alter the landscape reflects their sense of place, their social relationships, and their connections to their ancestors. This is as true now as it was in the past. The North Elkhorn Creek Earthworks Around 500 […]
The Hidden Cost of Four Everyday Products When we buy a product, we usually see only the price on the shelf. What we don’t see is the environmental cost of making it. For example, it takes about 2,700 liters (713 gallons) of water to produce a single cotton T-shirt—about the same amount one person drinks […]
Mark McDowell, Treasurer and Keni Hood, Business Council Seat 7 have filed seeking re-election to their respective offices. The filing period for candidates has passed, with no additional candidates declaring their intention to run for office. Therefore, in accordance with Title 6, Sec. 6.20.080 of the Shawnee Election Act, both unopposed candidates are hereby deemed […]
YOUR CAN COULD BE BACK ON THE SHELF IN JUST 60 DAYS! You enjoy your beverage and recycle your aluminum can. Recycling trucks collect the cans and take them to a facility to be sorted. The cans are cleaned and shredded into small pieces. The aluminum pieces are melted down and rolled into large sheets. […]
The Shawnee Tribe’s Environmental Department recently hosted a hands-on learning experience focused on water systems, runoff, and watershed education in the Miami community. During the event, students participated in the installation of a rain barrel system while learning how rainfall moves through local watersheds and contributes to flooding.