20th Annual Smithsonian Magazine Photo Contest People
Ché Kiráje

Ché Kiráje, Otoe Missouria word meaning Buffalo Clan leaders of the traditional tribal community known as a Chief clan. Benjamin West, pictured is an enrolled member of the Otoe Missouria Tribe of Oklahoma he is also Southern Cheyenne & Muscogee Creek. His grandfather was Benjamin Arkeketa artist and Otoe tribal member great great grandson of Chief George Arkeketa. Mother Annette Arkeketa writer, poet and Otoe Tribal member. West has become a leading member in his tribal communities and is a proactive photographer focusing on the evolution of his tribal religions and community focused projects to help amplify traditional artist within his own communities. West is wearing a Tammy Faw Faw coat which was created by the great great grand daughter of Otoe Missouria Prophet William Faw Faw. Benjamin is also wearing James Arkeketas Presidential Medal given to him by President Grant when James Arkeketa led the Otoe Delegation to Washington DC.

Photo Detail
Date Taken: 11.2022
Date Uploaded: 11.2022
Photo Location: Pembroke Pines, Florida, United States of America
Camera: ILCE-7RM4A
Copyright: © Benjamin West