Princess Campaigns Come to Close, Election Around Corner

The Comanche Nation Princess election will be from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. on April 4 at Watchetaker Hall and from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. on April 5 in the Patriot Room.

Comanche Nation Princess Director Fiona Kerchee oversees the crowned princesses of the Comanche Nation and the election.

She said that to be Comanche Nation Princess, they must be 16 to 22, and the Jr. Princess is 12 to 15. They must meet the requirements by the application deadline date.

The candidates must be enrolled members of the Comanche Nation, not married or have children, and live with family members.

Kerchee said they must also be courteous to others and promote education and awareness of the Comanche culture.

She said campaigning is fair game and can happen anywhere.

“So, it's really anywhere that you feel brave enough to campaign at,” Kerchee said.

She said candidates have been campaigning in several different locations.

“It's highly encouraged that they go to the elderly center and visit the elders. It's highly encouraged for them to go to Assistant Living and visit them. Just anywhere that's Comanche, try your best to go there, and as many activities that the tribe has, you know, go there,” Kerchee said. “Support your departments because you're going to be representing the departments. So, I mean, it's just there's no rules and regulations, really. This is just to have fun and just enjoy yourself and make memories on doing this election.”

She said it can be difficult to run for the title as she has been part of a princess family and has done it herself.

“It differs for everybody. Some have…really great experiences and never have that negativity. Some have both. Some have good and bad, and some might just have bad. Luckily, I had both. But I feel like it helps you in a way,” Kerchee said. “It makes you stronger. And when it comes to those situations, I was just told that you…still smile and don't cry. Don't let them know…they hurt your feelings or anything like that. You take it, and you move on, and the best you can, and that's when you have this as a director. That's when you step in, and you help them in those instances.”

She said families prepare candidates for all aspects of running for a princess title.