Fight for economic and government sovereignty to continue

Scott Csernyik

1/29/2003 12:00:00 AM

Saginaw Chippewa Tribal leaders spoke of an ongoing mission to protect sovereignty while improving the quality of life for the membership during the State of the Tribe address on Jan. 26 at the Soaring Eagle Entertainment Hall.

Chief Maynard Kahgegab Jr. said the administration's vision has moved the nation from a defensive government to one that is proactive.

"We did not come to office to sit idle and lie down next to our bows," he stated. "We came to office with a vision and determination to fight for our economic and government sovereignty. Over two centuries ago, our ancestors began the fight to protect our sovereignty and enhance the quality of life for our people. Many of us on Tribal Council have accepted their calling and continue to march in defense of our sovereignty and to provide for our people."

Kahgegab also stressed the importance of a continued building of government-to-government relationships with state and federal governments. His words were echoed by Sub-Chief Robert Pego Sr.

"Our mission does not end with the protection of our sovereignty," he explained. "It is only the beginning. Building a strong social and economic infrastructure for our community is a priority. In order to do this, we have proactively worked toward securing federal funds for Tribal programs.

"To date we have worked diligently with the U.S. Congress and the White House to educate officials and obtain resources for a new school, new residential treatment facility and domestic violence center. President Bush and leaders of Congress have expressed to us in person that the sovereignty and social well-being of our members is paramount to building a strong community."

Pego mentioned the implementation of new budgeting criteria, as well as a more accountable system of program delivery. He also stated accounting controls have been enhanced to exceed the minimum guidelines required by law.

"This allows us to better monitor the department activities of the Tribe and operational costs," he explained. "Tribal Council is committed to not saving the wrong dollar, but instead spending the right dollar on programs and operations. More internal reports were generated and quarterly budget meetings with departments were instated.

"The changes implemented over the last year have greatly contributed to our ability to increase weekly per capita payments by 50 percent and to increase loan amounts to Tribal members by 75 percent."

District 1 Councilwoman Lindy Hunt touched upon program areas of education, cultural and historic preservation, social services, as well as Tribal Elders.

"Our children represent the future of our great nation," she said. "They will carry on our traditions and history. We cannot allow our children to fall behind in learning and understanding their heritage.

"Strengthening our families and respecting the dignity and worth of individual Tribal members is important if we wish to exist in harmony as a nation."

Delores Jackson, who recently won the District 1 Tribal Council seat during a Jan. 7 special election, said these type of community gatherings have helped educate members on the positive achievements made throughout the year.

"It is hard to believe that not long ago we struggled to be acknowledged as a sovereign nation," stated Jackson. "Today, however, the Saginaw Chippewa Tribe is the second largest employer in the congressional district and the No. 1 employer in Isabella County. We significantly impact the mid-Michigan economy. More than $50 million is spent yearly on local vendors. We create jobs and new businesses every year. Our nation is an economic force to be recognized."

Kahgegab also pointed out Tribal homes are being built in record numbers.

"Members are buying quality homes for the first time," he explained. "The state of the Tribe is strong and positive. We came to our council positions with a vision. It is a vision that places our great nation at the forefront of accomplishment. A vision that seeks to enhance the social and economic quality of life for all Tribal members.

"We will not sacrifice the economic and social sanctity of our great nation for favoritism and the use of a spoils system. Tribal Council has created a vision for the future and believes in a proactive government working for the people. We do not dwell on the negativity of the past, but instead learn from it."