Tribal issues need to be discussed

Editor:

There was a district meeting held in Ronan on the evening of July 13, 2005. While there were interesting presentations from departments, just like the July quarterly meeting, there wasn't time for members' general questions. The membership was fed information of the administration's and council's choosing. No dialogue on the concerns of the membership was allowed.

A Tribal member from Ronan held a meeting for the membership where discussion on the many topics concerning the Tribes was held. People in attendance commented that they discussed possible solutions. These are the types of meetings we are going to have to hold so we can discuss these additional issues.

It is imperative that each community have meetings on a variety of issues and possible solutions. And, it seems, at the top of the list of solutions is to vote in a new council that isn't tainted by self preservation and defense of questionable past actions.

A Ronan council-person said they were only "one individual on the council," but does that mean one has to develop a herd mentality?

If they are only "one" on the council, and they are trying to work for the people, then that "one" person's voting record should show that they have indeed been working for the people and not following the herd. Another new council person in attendance commented he was accused of "asking too many questions." I say the others haven't been asking enough questions.

Please, membership, for your future, and for a council and administration that is responsible to the people, hold meetings and draft qualified people for Tribal council positions. We must not allow this council to continue to work counter to the people. Let the people once again be represented.

Carl Douglas Morigeau

St. Ignatius