For a group of cyclists traveling hundreds of miles across eight states, Saturday and the days around it are about remembering, learning, and spreading the history of the Cherokee Nation.
The Remember the Removal bike ride will travel 950 miles before the end of their trek—which began in Georgia and will conclude in Oklahoma—following the path their ancestors took along the Trail of Tears. That led them to Hopkinsville Saturday morning and to the Trail of Tears Park, where they were given time to rest and recharge, put more air in their tires and food in their stomachs.
Emily Christie has wanted to be part of the bike ride for years, and says she sees it as a way to honor those ancestors who were lost on the trail while bringing awareness to the fact her people are still here.
Kayce O’Field says its a chance to test yourself both physically and mentally, and she wants to bring back what she learns along the path to others.
Approximately 4,000 Cherokee people died from cold, hunger and disease during the forced removal that came to be known as the Trail of Tears.
Christie says she would like for people to remember that not only are the Cherokee people strong and resilient, they are still fighting battles to this day.
O’Field says if it’s one thing the Cherokee people know, it’s how to persevere in the face of adversity.
Both were wowed by the support they’ve received from different communities while they travel the trail, saying people have been both kind and generous in numerous ways, and many seem eager to learn more about their heritage and their goals.
You can follow the group’s journey on The Remember the Removal Facebook page.