From gars@netcom.com Wed May 14 00:32:24 1997 Date: Tue, 13 May 1997 20:12:35 -0700 From: Gary Night Owl To: Internet Recipients of Wotanging Ikche Subject: Wotanging Ikche--nanews05.020 _ __ _____ __ _ __ ___ ____ _ __ ___ ' ) / / ') / / ) ' ) ) / ) / ' ) ) / ) / / / / / / /--/ / / / ___ / / / / ___ (_(_/ (__/ ( / (_ / (_ (___/ '__/_ / (_ (___/ ' O ____ _ , ___ _ , ___ O o O / ' ) / / ) ' ) / / ' O o O / /-< / /--/ /-- VOLUME 05, ISSUE 020 O o o o o O __/_ / ) (___/ / ( (___, 17 May 1997 O o O KANOHEDA ANIYVWIYA Otapi'sin Atsinikiisinaakssin O o O Es'te Opunvk'vmucvse Aunchemokauhettittea O ( N A T I V E A M E R I C A N N E W S ) This issue contains articles from Taino-L, NativeLit, NAT-FILM, NAT-WORK & Native-L lists; UUCP email; Newsgroups: alt.native,soc.culture.native; Settlers In Support of Indigenous Sovereignty Articles appearing have been previously posted for public dissemination and/or permission for inclusion has been secured. Letters of authorization are on file. A list of those granting permission to repost their words in this issue are listed at the end of part A. I thank each of you for allowing your words to be shared with the people. <----<<<< >>>>----> This newsletter is a way of keeping the brothers and sisters who share our Spirit informed about current events within the lives of those who walk the Red Road. ++ It may be subscribed to via email by sending a request from your own internet addressable account to gars@netcom.com ++ It is archived at http://www.nanews.org Thanks to Don Rayment ,don.rayment@uptowne.com, Wotanging Ikche/ Kanoheda Aniyvwiya is being redistributed via a listserver. If you would like to receive Wotanging Ikche via the listserver, you can send a message to listserv@uptowne.com and include, in the body of your message "sub wotanging.ikche " Thanks to Borries Demeler all _Wotanging_Ikche_ (part a) submissions to AISESnet are archived under AISESnet and can be accessed easily by World Wide Web: 1994: http://aises.uthscsa.edu/94_dis.html 1995: http://aises.uthscsa.edu/95_dis.html 1996: http://aises.uthscsa.edu/96_dis.html 1997: http://aises.uthscsa.edu/97_dis.html This is a searchable index to the AISESnet Discussion mailing list database archive, and the keyword "Wotanging" will retrieve all issues for that year. Thanks to Robin Silver for this week's quotes. Transcript Hearing on Cross Motions for Summary Judgment, SWCBD v. Bruce Babbitt, et al., CIV-94-2036-PHX-RMB, U.S. District Court, Tucson, Arizona, October 23, 1995 Arizona: THE COURT: ...I get the gut feeling that we have one series of rules when we deal with trees and we have another series of rules when we deal with species that occupy trees that can be cut down and made into lumber... THE COURT: ...I think the statute clearly says to me, "When in doubt, protect the species." THE COURT: ...I don't see any difference between the American bald eagle that stretches from Arizona to Alaska right across Canada...[and] the goshawk starts in the eastern United States, goes up into Canada and comes back down into the United States...how do you distinguish that? JUSTICE: Changing agency policy. +- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -+ | Indian Pledge of Allegiance | The Indian Pledge of Alleg- | | iance was first presented | I pledge allegiance to my Tribe,| on 2 December '93 during the | to the democratic principles | opening address of the Nat- | of the Republic | ional Congress of American | and to the individual freedoms | Indian Tribal-States Relat- | borrowed from the Iroquois and | ions Panel in Reno, NV. NCAI | Choctaw Confederacies, | plans distribution of the | as incorporated in the United | Indian Pledge to all Indian | States Constitution, | Nations. | so that my forefathers | | shall not have died in vain | Walk in Beauty! Night Owl +- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -+ O'siyo Brothers and Sisters! The state of New Mexico has agreed to a modified gaming compact with Native Nations, but it has yet to receive all "official" stamps of approval. The Tribes are continuing their case in the Supreme Court to force a final ruling. The Seneca are again surrounded by New York Police as the State again tries to force them to serve as a tax collector, despite treaties to the contrary. Mille Lacs have been "granted" the right to continue traditional fishing, as long as it is for Ceremonial purposes, pending yet another attempt to violate a 150 year old treaty by Wisconsin. One First Nation after the other is being striped of its rights because there is no unity among the People of all the First Nations. It is not necessary that you, as a Seneca, Cherokee, Odawa... understand or even agree with the needs and ways of another nation to stand by the People of that nation and support their right to determine what is best for them as a sovereign nation, as a People. It is necessary to stand and demand that all First nations must be granted the right to act in their own best interest, or more and more rights will be chipped away, one nation at a time. It is all about doing that which is honorable and being responsible for ones own consequences. I thank my teacher for reminding me that People need to consider that each word, each action and non action will affect deeply, not only people's lives today, but those yet unborn. People need to reflect deeply on what they say and do. All My Relations. How many times do we hear it? How many times do we say it? The important question is how many times do we mean it? It doesn't mean all my RED relations. It doesn't even mean all my HUMAN relations. It means that we are all to consider we are related and not harm one another. That is the first rule of survival and balance. When others join in like mad dogs in a feeding frenzy they lose sight of the first rule, "ALL my Relations." To attack those who are not the enemy is to help to destroy yourself. And when you watch and do not speak for other First nations you are giving aid and comfort to those who are their enemy and will, in time, become your enemy. Those who do not respect the rights of others will not respect the rights of your People, either. Carry this message from an Elder in your heart. "When a person puts their own ego ahead of what is best for First Nations, that person is the enemy, for they are far more dangerous in their cunning and betrayal, than any enemy who announced his intention to destroy you." Thanks to Mike Wicks for sending these reminders: In Memory (with Respect and Honor): 5.20.1975 Ben Sitting Up - AIM member killed at Wanblee by "unknown assailants." No investigation. 5.24.1976 Sam Afraid of Bear - AIM supporter shot to death at Pine Ridge. Investigation "ongoing." Peace! Night Owl , , Gary Night Owl gars@netcom.com (*,*) P. O. Box 672168 gars@nanews.org (`-') Marietta, GA 30067, U.S.A. gars@igc.apc.org ===w=w=== gars@bellsouth.net Fax: 770-528-9643 gars@juno.com ----------- News of the people featured in this issue ---------- Part A: Usenet and e-mail Part B: NATCHAT and NATIVE-L lists - Gustafsen: Judge Stacks Deck - Grandmother Doris Minkler Passes - Bear Lincoln Letter Asks Vigilance - Raid at Akwesasne - Bear Lincoln Writes - Keweenaw Bay Update - Bank Discriminates Against Indians - Inco Attempts to Undermine - Mole Lake Takeover - Bills Affecting American Indians - Seneca Problem is our Problem - Special Issue of Wicazo Sa Review - A Racist Mind - Waseskun House Initiative - A People Betrayed - Graduation Dress--A VICTORY!! - BIA and Cherokee Nation - Indian Law info - Gathering in NY - A Hundred Years Ago - Protect What is Ours - Native American Spirituality - Love and Marriage - The Ridge at Agua Reves - Summer Camp Job Opening - EPA Summer Position - Lubicon Cree West Coast Tour - Poem: A Song On The Four Winds - Verse: Hawaiian Book of Days - Conferences and Powwows - offline --------- "RE: Gustafsen: Judge Stacks Deck" --------- Date: Thu, 8 May 1997 18:53:11 -0500 From: "S.I.S.I.S." Subj: CASNP release: GUSTAFSEN TRIAL, JUDGE JOSEPHSON STACKS THE DECK GUSTAFSEN TRIAL, JUDGE JOSEPHSON STACKS THE DECK CASNP. Surrey BC. May 7, 1997. Said a faithful observer throughout the trial in Surrey British Columbia, "They're still trying to shoot the messengers!" Canada continues its offensive against Aboriginal and sovereign rights, moving from Gustafsen Lake to Courtroom No. 7 in Surrey. The same tactics are being used - intimidation, threats, withholding and manufacturing of evidence, manipulation and genocide. The establishment, through the RCMP and the Canadian Army, attempted to murder the Aboriginal people on their own unceded territory. The latest grotesque chapter in the continuing saga is this attempt by B. C. Judge (Stonewall) Josephson to steer the jury into convicting the defendants while suppressing the central issues of jurisdiction, sovereignty, self-defense, colour of right, rule of law and third party impartial adjudication. In short, there is nothing to make this a credible process. Judge Josephson goes further than the "forked tongue". He is tampering with the right of the jury to make its own decision based on 11 months of real testimony and evidence. "You must accept the law as I explain it to you, without question", demanded Josephson. He tells them to forget four weeks of brilliant testimony by Bruce Clark, Aboriginal rights lawyer, and Loretta Pascal, Lilwat elder, on the basic issues. Judge Josephson instructed, "You will probably have no difficulty concluding that the alleged offences occurred at the time and place alleged in the indictment": just to make sure the jury decides the right (white) way. The judge spent three days telling the jury what to consider and essentially to forget what they heard over 11 months. He shamelessly instructed them on what to take from that testimony and what to forget. In essence, he said, "I'll tell you what to think and what to forget". When it comes to sovereignty issues, this grotesque behaviour is not unusual in Canada. What has not been dealt with, yet again, is the challenge to the courts on the jurisdiction issue - which is protected under Canadian constitutional law - their own law! The Aboriginals ask British Columbia, "Where is the treaty? Where is the receipt for the purchase?" They can't answer because they know they have none. The Crown Prosecutor recommends to the judge that "the jury should be given a brief explanation and be told it (jurisdiction) should not be part of their deliberations". Jurisdiction is the legal right recognized in the constitution as the exclusive jurisdiction of the Aboriginal nations over their lands, resources and possessions on unceded territories. The land at Gustafsen Lake is unceded sovereign Aboriginal Shuswap territory, which was brought out in the trial and confirmed by the Privy Council of Great Britain, the Canadian constitution and the Royal Proclamation 1763. They affirm Aboriginal nationhood, sovereignty and ownership of North America. For Canada to have jurisdiction they must go through the process outlined in their own laws: purchase and treaty. This is not the case for British Columbia or most of Canada. The Canadian judicial system has usurped jurisdiction, forced the owners of the land into their illegal kangaroo courts and is now trying to railroad them for being on their own homeland. Jones William Ignace, known as "Wolverine", Shuswap elder, told the judge: "Finally after 139 years an officer of the court admits there is no purchase" (of our land). The accused are charged with using extortion and force to achieve justice. If we substituted the RCMP for the Gustafsen Lake defendants based upon the present charges, there would be an airtight case against the RCMP, who would undoubtedly be convicted of hate crimes, attempted murder, genocide, numerous weapons offences, violations of numerous international protocols and covenants such as the UN Convention on Civil and Political Rights, Prevention and Punishment of the Crime of Genocide 1948, violation of the Geneva Conventions, war crimes and other sordid criminal colonial acts. "Smear campaigns are our specialty", said Sgt. Peter Montague, Chief Media Liaison for B.C. RCMP, affectionately known as "He lies but doesn't get his hands dirty", aka "Pinocchio". The 56 hour RCMP Training Video presumably was made to train police throughout Canada, in Aboriginal Genocide 100 and Colonial Crimes 101. It sets out the strategies for carrying out a Waco (Texas) style "final solution" of the Aboriginal problem. Wolverine said, "If you impose a life sentence on me, let my life be the seeds ... of liberty for the Red People". He also said, when they refused his eighth parole hearing, "Thank you very much, your Honour. Some day I will sit and judge you". Judge Josephson looked at him in stunned silence. An elder observed, "I am surprised the judge did not raise the question of the obvious perjury of the RCMP officers. Why didn't he tell the jury to disregard their evidence because it is perjured and therefore the jury could not believe the other evidence they gave of their aggressive attacks and attempts to murder the people in the camp, including admitting they started the whole shooting fracas. In fact, the police were the aggressors through the whole event". The last question of the Gustafsen lake trial was asked by Manuel Azevedo, lawyer for the defendants, and directed to Lilwat elder, Loretta Pascal. He asked if she had any knowledge of native persons who had suffered mistreatment, beatings or death at the hands of the RCMP. Josephson did not allow her to answer. Needed is a full public inquiry into the whole matter from beginning to end. The citizens of Canada are entitled to know the whole truth, including the multi-million dollar cost to the taxpayers. Aboriginal nations must be dealt with on a nation-to-nation basis according to constitutional and international laws. If convicted, we expect all peoples to vigorously protest this outrage. Acquittal means that the Aboriginals are right, that the Canadian judicial system has no jurisdiction on unceded sovereign Aboriginal territory. A decision is expected next week. FREEDOM! Canadian Alliance in Solidarity with the Native Peoples CASNP National Office: 39 Spadina Rd. Toronto On. Canada M5R 2S9 mailing address: PO Box 574 stn P Toronto ON. Canada M5S 2T1 phone: (416) 972-1573 fax (416) 972-6232 web site: http://wwwpathcom.com/.casnp email casnp@pathcom.com :-:-:-:-:-:-:-:-:-:-:-:-:-:-:-:-:-:-:-:-:-:-:-:-:-:-:-:-:-:-:-:-:-:-:-: S.I.S.I.S. Settlers In Support of Indigenous Sovereignty P.O. Box 8673, Victoria, "B.C." "Canada" V8X 3S2 ==>>NEW EMAIL : WWW: http://kafka.uvic.ca/~vipirg/SISIS/SISmain.html SOVERNET-L is a news-only listserv concerned with indigenous sovereigntist struggles around the world. To subscribe, send "subscribe sovernet-l" in the body of an email message to For more information on sovernet-l, contact S.I.S.I.S. --------- "RE: Bear Lincoln Letter Asks Vigilance" --------- Date: Thu, 08 May 1997 12:27:16 -0700 From: Nicholas Wilson Subj: BEAR LINCOLN LETTER ASKS VIGILANCE UUCP email Note: Bear Lincoln's capital murder trial is now in jury selection in Mendocino County Superior Court in Ukiah, California. Read the Albion Monitor online at http://www.monitor.net/monitor for full details and background information. ************************************************** Bear Lincoln's Letter to the Editor of Anderson Valley Advertiser (published in the April 30, 1997 issue) WHAT IT'S REALLY LIKE I would like to make the public aware of the gross racism against Native Americans in the so-called justice system in Mendocino County. The District Attorney's office would like to put me to death for allegedly killing a Sheriff's deputy. It is a matter of record that the majority of death penalty cases in this county have been against Native Americans. It is a fact that the death penalty has not had an effect on crime. The state is sending a clear message that revenge killings are OK as long as they are doing the killing. Also, that killing is acceptable as long as it's done by the gang that is in control. Sheriff Tuso has sent a very clear message that he can come to the "Round Valley Indian Reservation," and ambush and murder an innocent man who committed no crime and call it justifiable homicide. Then charge me with his death and the death of the officer. But when the facts come out at the trial, the public will see that the deaths of these two men were the result of incompetent leadership and extreme prejudice. I urge the public to follow this case and be concerned, because corrupt law enforcement affects everyone sooner or later. We will prove in the trial that the Sheriff's deputy has covered up their actions against the Indian community, and that they are the ones who are guilty of lying in wait and ambushing and murdering Leonard Peters. They seek the death penalty for me for crimes that they have committed. If they had conducted the first killing as a routine homicide investigation, Leonard Peters and officer Davis would still be alive. But Sheriff Tuso wanted to play "John Wayne" and put the Indians on the reservation under his thumb and shoot anything that moved, which happened to be an innocent man walking in the night on a mountain road. It is only by the "Grace of God" that I have survived to tell this story and expose law enforcement gone run amok in Mendocino County. Sheriff Tuso is guilty of setting the stage for more killings to take place on the Round Valley Reservation by his biased law enforcement and other injustices against my relations and supporters. Tuso has been trying to impose the death penalty on me since the night of the police ambush on April 14th of 1995. The DA's statement to the media that they would seek a death sentence in this case is a reality that I've been living with since the night they murdered my friend without cause. This case is a very good example of a corrupt law enforcement and justice system that doesn't give a damn what the public thinks or sees concerning their conduct because they believe that they will have to answer to no one. Therefore, they can break as many laws as they want to and believe that they are immune to any type of prosecution or dismissal. The DA needs to change his line from "we the people," to "we the law enforcement community." That would be a more truthful statement. It is needful for the public to follow this case to see what is really going on with a system that has strayed from "we the people." Signed, Angry Native Bear Lincoln **************************************************** Please write to: Eugene "Bear" Lincoln Mendocino County Jail 951 Low Gap Rd. Ukiah CA 95482 Please repost this message far and wide Lincoln/Peters Defense Alliance c/o Mendocino Environmental Center 106 W. Standley St. Ukiah CA 95482 (707) 468-1660 ************************************************* * U.S. Mail to: * * Nicholas Wilson * * P.O. Box 943 * * Mendocino CA 95460 * * Visit the Albion Monitor online newspaper at * * http://www.monitor.net/monitor * * Check out the official Judi Bari Home Page at * * http://www.monitor.net/~bari * * Justice for Judi Bari! * ************************************************* --------- "RE: Bear Lincoln Writes" --------- Date: Fri, 09 May 1997 13:48:15 -0700 From: Christina Meckel (by way of Nicholas Wilson ) Subj: BEAR LINCOLN WRITES UUCP email Christina Meckel wrote: Got a letter which I thought I would post: -------------------------------------------------------------------------- Dear Christina, I received your letter a few days ago, and I wanted to say thank you very much for your concern and support. I'm sending you two names of persons to contact, they will have information on upcoming events and rallies, so more people can get involved, the better for all of us. One of the persons name is Cyndi Pickett, she happens to be "Leonard Acorn Peters" widow. Acorn was my friend that was murdered in the police ambush, he was an innocent victim, he wasn't wanted for any crime. Anyway, Cyndi makes up these information packets for the public and she already has your name and address. It wouldn't hurt for you to call her too, a good time would be evenings after five because she works as a teachers aid at the elementary school in Covolo. She will be happy to answer any questions you have about the case and upcoming trail. [I am not going to publish her phone # here, but will her mailing address] The other person is "Cora Lee Simmons" she is the Chairperson of the "Round Valley Indians For Justice." She also can let you know what is happening and give you an update. This is a very exciting time to get involved with the trial getting underway. I am sure there will be plenty of work to keep everyone busy and we welcome new ideas to get publicity and have rallies. I have a great defense team and we are very confident of a great victory. I am happy and excited about getting on with the trial. It's been a long wait for me. So my freedom is close at hand and I welcome you and your friends to the winning side. Your help will be greatly appreciated. Thank you again Your friend, Bear Lincoln Contacts: Cyndi Pickett Cora Lee Simmons P.O. Box 83 P.O. Box 354 Covelo, CA 95428 Covelo, CA 95428 --------------------------------------------------------------------------- I spoke with Cyndi Pickett. She is mailing me a bunch of info and promised that Round Valley Rez history info I have been requesting. She gave me a couple interesting facts. The Round Valley was colonized in 1854. At the time it was inhabited by 11,000 Indians with in its 8 by 7 miles (defined by watershed). Within ten years the white settlers had reduced the native population to 400. She also gave me a brief run down on the recurring police brutality in the area, but am going to wait for her write up, to make sure I get names correct. Could everyone please mail Bear a support letter? It would mean a lot to a man in captivity. How many of us are here? I think it would really mean a lot. Just a post card or note, please: to: Bear Lincoln 951 Low Gap Road Ukiah, CA 95482 Thanks everyone. Christina Meckel or Lonewolf ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- Here's one more contact: Lincoln/Peters Defense Alliance c/o Mendocino Environmental Center 106 W. Standley St. Ukiah CA 95482 (707) 468-1660 --------- "RE: Bank Discriminates Against Indians" --------- Date: Thu, 08 May 1997 15:54:37 -0400 From: Sonja Keohane Subj: Bank discriminates against Indians UUCP email Good afternoon all, The following article speaks to a topic that is mentioned here from time to time...I'm sure this is not "news" to many here...but this time the bank got caught... http://biz.yahoo.com/upi/97/05/07/general_news/usbankdis_1.html Wednesday May 7 6:31 PM EDT Bank discriminated against Indians RAPID CITY, S.D., May 7 (UPI) _ A Nebraska bank has agreed to pay $275,000 in damages for charging American Indian borrowers higher loan interest rates than it charged other customers. In a settlement with the Justice Department approved by a federal judge, the First National Bank of Gordon is cited for violating the federal Equal Credit Opportunity Act. The bank Wednesday admitted failing to use formal criteria for setting interest rates on consumer loans, giving broad, unreviewed discretion to loan officers. Most of the victims of the discrimination were residents of the Pine Ridge reservation in South Dakota. Acting Assistant Attorney General Isabelle Katz Pinzler said, ``No one should be charged a higher rate for credit because of the color of his or her skin.'' Pinzler is in the Justice Department's Civil Rights division in Washington. --------- "RE: Mole Lake Takeover" --------- Date: Fri, 09 May 97 06:46:00 PDT From: "EREC - Fort, Don" Subj: Mole Lake Takeover ------- FORWARD, Original message follows ------- From: Indigenous Environmental Network -------------------- NEWS RELEASE! -------------------------- ---------------------- RED ALERT! ---------------------------- CONCERNED ANTI-MINING TRIBAL MEMBERS IN WISCONSIN CONTINUE THEIR 8TH-DAY OF OCCUPATION OF THEIR TRIBAL HEADQUARTERS Released by: Indigenous Environmental Network - Great Lakes Regional May 8, 1997 Mole Lake, Wisconsin - "We need help from our allies, it's no joke, it's one big conspiracy by Exxon, Rio Algom and BHP international mining corporations" said Robert Van Zile, one of the occupying tribal members and Pipe Keeper of the Mole Lake Band of Sokaogon Chippewa. Approximately 40 tribal community members have been occupying their tribal headquarters since last Thursday. The Mole Lake community members reaffirmed their concerns set forth in the May 1, 1997 press release statement. The statement asked for the removal of Arlyn Ackley, Sr., Mole Lake tribal chairman; an audit of tribal and casino funds; removal of tribal staff; recognition of the civil rights of tribal members; clarification on repeated parole violations of Ackley and investigation of the role and collusion between Exxon, Wisconsin Governor Tommy Thompson, his attorneys, and the law firm representing the Mole Lake tribal council. During recent years, Exxon, Rio Algom and BHP have been teaming up with a corporate campaign war against all citizen oppositions to their proposed plans to develop various mineral deposits around Mole Lake, including the proposed Crandon Mine, which is being planned by Exxon Minerals and Rio Algom through the creation of Crandon Mining Company. The international corporate giants have waged a million dollar public relations, scientific, and lobbying campaign to get Wisconsin state and federal approval to build the Crandon Mine. The Crandon Mine is a hard rock sulfide mine proposed next to the Mole Lake Chippewa reservation in northeastern Wisconsin near to the Wolf River. The mine would leave mine tailings, de-water the area destroying wetlands, wild rice beds, and fishing areas. "The Crandon Mine mineral deposit extends to underneath our sacred Rice Lake, our spiritual center and heart of the Anishinabe people, and the source of life-giving Manomin, our wild rice" said Van Zile. "It's a 'highway 8' trend' which means that all this area is a mineral track that is rich in copper, zinc, and silver deposits" he said. Another concerned tribal member in the occupation is Bill Koenen, who says, "Exxon, Rio Algom, BHP and the politics of Wisconsin state government have infiltrated our tribal government and pushing Mole Lake to accept the Crandon Mine proposal. The community members are saying enough is enough. It's not a simple internal tribal affairs matter. We wouldn't have contacted outside support groups if it was just an internal matter." Koenen, Van Zile and other tribal community members are worried about historical and recent events that demonstrate their concern that some shady deals are going on with chairman Ackely, the tribal environmental engineer John Griffin, and perhaps others. The concerned community members have clippings of local newspaper articles from 1986 that exposed Ackley's plans for Mole Lake to develop it's own copper and silver mine. In 1982, the federal Bureau of Indian Affairs announced the discovery of copper, zinc, and silver deposits on the Mole Lake reservation found to be worth more than $1 billion dollars. Even though Ackley in recent years has made public statements of his opposition to the Crandon Mine, community members say they have lost confidence with the inconsistency and credibility of their chairman. The community members mention recent events whereby their tribal environmental engineer allowed federal and state agencies to collect sensitive environmental data. "This action was against tribal council decision", says Koenen. "When we asked who gave permission for these agencies to take data, we were told that Ackley gave permission. This was against council policy. Up to this time, Exxon had continually been requesting and had been denied access to our tribal lands. Now Exxon is having the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, and the Wisconsin state Department of Natural Resources collect the data for them," Koenen stated. Collusion between the law firm retained by the Mole Lake tribal council and the firms relationship as personal counsel to Wisconsin Governor Tommy Thompson, adds to the concerns of tribal members. The law firm that is representing Mole Lake tribal affairs including their struggle to get their tribal water quality standards approved is a Madison firm by the name of Brennan, Steil, Basting and MacDougall. Koenen reports that this law firm personally represents Governor Thompson. "Governor Thompson is presently in legal battle with us and the EPA concerning our tribal water quality standards. Our standards are more stringent than the state of Wisconsin and the federal standards. If approved, our standards would impact the Crandon Mine proposal as well as other mining proposals. Exxon, Rio Algom and BHP don't want these standards approved, and we're sure they have been lobbying Governor Thompson on this issue. The mining industry is a powerful force in Wisconsin politics, " Koenen expressed. "Law firm partner George Steil was appointed by Governor Thompson to the University of Wisconsin Board of Regents and we have found that Michael Grebe, an attorney with the Milwaukee law firm, Foley and Lardner, is also on the Board of Regents. The firm Foley and Lardner is the primary law firm retained by Exxon. It's a pretty cozy relationship and we know these people are talking with each other, but of course, they will deny it. It's just too close and has us worried, " Koenen said. Latest updates from tribal members reveal concerns with "scratch my back and I'll scratch your back" deals by Governor Thompson and Wisconsin politicians concerning Mole Lake and the Lac du Flambeau Tribe in their negotiations with the state on their tribal gaming compacts. One main component of this compact negotiation involve the Hudson, Wisconsin dog racing complex that Mole Lake and other Wisconsin tribes want to obtain to operate a casino. "There is a serious danger with these tribal gaming compact negotiations that allow Governor Thompson to combine treaty-based hunting, fishing, and harvest rights with gaming compact negotiations. Thompson has refused to negotiate any further on the tribal gaming compacts unless the treaty-based hunting, fishing, and harvest rights are put on the negotiating table. This will open up negotiations on natural resources such as mining and water. This is something that the mining industry wants. Wisconsin is pushing our tribal governments to negotiate tribal gaming rights on the same level as environmental protection and natural resource management," said Bill Koenen. He further added that Kevin Potter, an attorney with Brennan, Steil, Basting and MacDougall also sits on the Mole Lake tribal Gaming Board. The concerned tribal members have been trying to obtain U.S. federal intervention and protection, to no avail. Last Friday, the Chicago regional U.S. Office of Justice was contacted by the concerned community members to assist in mediation. It was reported that the Mole Lake tribal council refused to participate in mediation. The community members report strong support from other Mole Lake members and elders. This past weekend, grassroots groups from the Red Cliff Band of Chippewa Indians, Bad River Band of Lake Superior Chippewa, Lac Courte Oreilles Chippewa Tribe, and members of the Michigan Keweenaw Bay Chippewa community traveled to Mole Lake to share prayers and support to the concerned tribal community members barricaded in the building. "We, ..... want accountability from our tribal government and from the state and federal officials who have violated their trust responsibilities. ......this action is an attempt to address and resolve broad issues that impact all Sokaogon tribal members, all those opposed to mining in Wisconsin, and all those interested in a clean representative government," read a statement issued by the concerned Mole Lake tribal members. ------ 30 ------ For more information: Contact person - Bill Koenen, Mole Lake Concerned Tribal Member and Anishinaabe (715) 367-2902 or Indigenous Environmental Network, Ph: (218) 751-4967 Fax: (218) 751-0561 --------------------------------------------------------------------- This communication written in consultation with the Mole Lake concerned tribal members that are currently in occupation of their tribal headquarters. The gas, electricity and water has been shut-off at the headquarters. The contact telephone number listed above for the Mole Lake concerned tribal members is a cellular phone and the battery pack is always running low on power. Communications is a problem. The group is requesting support. ---------------------------------------------------------------------- Released by: Indigenous Environmental Network P.O. Box 485 Bemidji, MN 56619 Ph: (218) 751-4967 Fax: (218) 751-0561 e-mail: ien@igc.apc.org web page: http://www.alphacdc.com/ien --------- "RE: Seneca Problem is our Problem" --------- Date: Fri, 9 May 1997 23:30:06 -0400 (EDT) From: RAD642@aol.com Subj: Seneca problem is our problem UUCP email Dear Gary Night Owl, I posted a letter about the Seneca war in NY, and the situation of the reservation being surrounded, not allowing children off to go to school or the infirm to get supplies or help. I e-mailed the white house, and sent letters to many NA's of different tribes. I wrote to a radio station in Montana. However, it is not good enough. We need national coverage of this issue. Today the Seneca. Tomorrow it will be you. The people of the US need an education about the way the reservations work. That they are a nation within a nation, sovereign and that they are there because their land was taken and most of them murdered. Most historians calculate between 3-12 million. I believe the holocaust was 80 million. Every time they would find something on their land such as gold, oil, lead, coal, etc they were forced to move. Forced to depend on the government. The whites' prejudice is today like that. "The Indian is dirty, lazy, not much better than on welfare, and heathen." Never mind that there are whites that murder, rape, abuse children, are pornographers, worship Satan. And, they have major corporations collecting big welfare. They did a good job of removing the language from the children which carried a rich oral tradition. The stories of their culture. Today the lost are finding their roots. The english speaking children are learning their own tongue, and now they have technology. The net is a powerful tool for unity, and for spreading the word when one tribe or nation suffers injustice. There are many white people today that sympathize with the NA and are horrified about the things they suffered from their government. I am white and I am angry. Help the Seneca. Tell as many people as you can reach this is everyone's responsibility. sincerely, Edie RAD642 --------- "RE: A Racist Mind" --------- Date: Fri, 9 May 1997 00:37:37 -0400 From: "S.I.S.I.S." Subj: A Racist Mind - New York State Police (fwd) [Warning: the following message contains materials that many will find offensive -- S.I.S.I.S.] ---------- Forwarded message ---------- From: Mohawk Nation Office - Kahnawake Branch Kahnawake Mohawk Nation Office - Kahnawake Branch ---------------------------------------------------------------------- May 5, 1997 This 'poem' came from a tool booth at Silver Creek, New York near Cattaraugus - Seneca Territory: ODE TO AN INDIAN Yes you are an asshole, it is true and someday a Trooper will come to get you. Hold your flag high for all to see. For soon Marcus Rickard, you will meet me. I am the Trooper on whose car you stand, waving your flag in your fat little hand. Enjoy it now, your defiance and pride, for nobody, nobody defiles my ride. I will hunt you down in your teepee or shack, so don't close your eyes and don't turn your back. For someday I'll be there, and paybacks are hell, while you cry for mercy, I'll think it's swell. So stand on my steed, with your balls of brass, cuz' soon I'll be shoving that stick up your ass. And your body I'll dump on the Thruway with glee, so all of the Troopers can drive over thee!! (Author unknown) This is in reference to the April 20th rally in Cattaraugus. There appeared a picture in certain newspapers with a man, Marcus Rickard of the Tuscarora Reservation holding a warrior flag standing on top of a State Trooper car - licence plate 3A39. Major Pedro A. Perez, commander of the State Police in New York, should be made accountable for his men. We are asking you to write the New York State Police and make a complaint regarding this blatant expression of racism on the part of the New York State Police. New York State Police, Division State Police Headquarters - Phone 518/457-2180 or Fax. 518/783-3298. :-:-:-:-:-:-:-:-:-:-end forwarded message-:-:-:-:-:-:-:-:-:-:-:-:-: More information on the April 20th rally and its background: http://kafka.uvic.ca/~vipirg/SISIS/Seneca/main.html :-:-:-:-:-:-:-:-:-:-:-:-:-:-:-:-:-:-:-:-:-:-:-:-:-:-:-:-:-:-:-:-:-:-:-: S.I.S.I.S. Settlers In Support of Indigenous Sovereignty P.O. Box 8673, Victoria, "B.C." "Canada" V8X 3S2 ==>>NEW EMAIL : WWW: http://kafka.uvic.ca/~vipirg/SISIS/SISmain.html SOVERNET-L is a news-only listserv concerned with indigenous sovereigntist struggles around the world. To subscribe, send "subscribe sovernet-l" in the body of an email message to For more information on sovernet-l, contact S.I.S.I.S. --------- "RE: A People Betrayed" --------- Date: Fri, 09 May 1997 13:59:57 -0400 From: ishgooda@tdi.net Subj: A People Betrayed-Part 1 UUCP email >From BIGMTLIST The following article appears at http://www.phoenixnewtimes.com/1996/current/feature2-1.html It is the second of a two article series from Phoenix Newtimes. Written by John Dougherty, entitled "A People Betrayed", it is reproduced here for the benefit of those on the list with only email access. Others should visit the phoenixnewtimes site directly. The traditional Hopi knew all along. For nearly 50 years, their pleas to the federal government to prevent mining in the heart of their homeland on Black Mesa have been ignored. Hopi religious leaders, the Kikmongwi, beseeched President Harry Truman in 1949 to forbid such atrocity. Truman ignored them. In the early 1960s, the traditional Hopi who followed ancient ways of self-governance by consensus protested efforts by a renegade Hopi tribal council to grant mining leases. Washington, D.C., bureaucrats responded by usurping the Hopi Constitution that "prevent[ed]" the council from executing mineral leases without approval of the Hopi people by "delegating" leasing authority to the renegade council. By the late 1960s, the traditional Hopi leaders had grown deeply suspicious of the council's attorney, who had negotiated a one-sided mineral lease with Peabody Western Coal Company. The lease allowed Peabody to create one of the largest coal strip-mining and water-consuming operations in the United States--on Black Mesa. Hopi traditionalists wrote presidents Lyndon Johnson, Richard Nixon and Jimmy Carter seeking to halt the mining, but none listened. They turned to the courts, filing numerous lawsuits. All were thrown out. On Black Mesa--the land where their ancestors are buried, site of sacred shrines that bind their lives--Peabody's giant bulldozers remove 12 million tons of coal a year. Meanwhile, the London-based multinational corporation's deep wells suck 1.2 billion gallons of water each year from an ancient aquifer--a practice the Hopi claim is drying up sacred springs. The coal fuels two massive electricity generating plants that power the Southwest's burgeoning cities and, perhaps more important, generate tens of billions of dollars of profits for utilities, banks and developers. As the decades passed, many of the traditionalists faded into the dusty mesas where the Hopi first built villages more than 950 years ago and where their ancestors roamed 12,000 years ago. Only a handful of the Hopi's traditional religious leaders remains. And only now are the half-century-old suspicions being confirmed. The Hopi, whose tenets are trust and loyalty, were deceived. Nobody played a larger role than the Hopi's longtime, trusted and beloved attorney, the late John Sterling Boyden. Documents recently uncovered by University of Colorado law professor Charles F. Wilkinson reveal Boyden's betrayal of the Hopi through a blatant conflict of interest. Records show that Boyden was working for Peabody Western Coal Company at the same time he was representing the Hopi in negotiations with Peabody for the Black Mesa coal lease. Such actions are among the most heinous of attorney misconduct. Wilkinson takes no delight in his revelation of Boyden's role. But he's pleased it provides proof to support the long-held contentions of Hopi traditionalists. "This is one of the largest single events in the Hopi's thousand-year history," Wilkinson says of Boyden's role in the Peabody mining lease. "At least now, the record is clear." John Sterling Boyden was a pillar of Utah Democratic politics for decades. A friend of Utah governors and an acquaintance of presidents, Boyden twice sought Utah's Democratic nomination for governor. The prominent Salt Lake City attorney grew up a devout Mormon in Coalville, Utah. He served as a bishop in Salt Lake City from 1953 through 1958. His contribution to the Mormon Church was recognized at his funeral in 1980, when Marion Romney of the Church's First Presidency spoke. Boyden was hired by an unofficial group calling itself the Hopi tribal council in 1950 to represent the tribe before the Indian Claims Commission. The commission was created to determine compensation to Indian tribes whose land was seized by the United States. The work was lucrative for Boyden, who eventually earned a $500,000 fee, equal to 10 percent of a $5 million settlement the U.S. offered to pay the Hopi for the loss of four million acres. The elected Hopi Tribal Council was no longer recognized by the federal government when Boyden was hired. That council was dissolved by the federal government in 1943 because Hopi traditionalists refused to recognize it. To legitimize his claim as Hopi attorney, Boyden executed agreements with leaders of seven of the 12 Hopi villages along with the unofficial Hopi council. Boyden expanded his role beyond representing Hopi interests with the Claims Commission in 1951, when he convinced the seven Hopi villages to hire him as general counsel to negotiate with oil companies that desired leases on Hopi land. Boyden told the villages he would be paid only out of revenues he produced for the tribe, according to Hopi tribal records obtained by New Times. The plan to make Boyden general counsel was problematic. The local Bureau of Indian Affairs director recommended the contract be rejected because it would legitimize the renegade tribal council without the consent of the Hopi people. But Boyden went over the local BIA director's head, and won approval from Department of the Interior officials who were eager to see the Hopi grant oil and mineral leases. A BIA memorandum describes a Boyden meeting with Interior Department officials in which he says "that remuneration for his services will depend largely on working out solutions to many of the Hopi problems to such a point that oil leases will provide funds." The BIA approved Boyden's general-counsel contract in May 1952, triggering controversy on the Hopi reservation. While the protests caused the Interior Department to review BIA approval of Boyden's contract, in the end, Boyden's appointment stood. The lawyer turned his energy toward gaining federal recognition of the unofficial tribal council. The original Hopi council had been created in the aftermath of the 1936 ratification of the Hopi Constitution. The constitution, however, was strongly opposed by Hopi religious leaders, the Kikmongwi, and many Hopi did not vote in the 1936 ratification election. More than 1,800 eligible voters stayed home. The constitution was approved by a vote of 651 to 104. Tribal records reveal that BIA officials knew there was profound opposition to the constitution at the time it was ratified. Oliver LaFarge, the federal agent supervising the election, noted in his diary that the Hopi were opposed to settling matters by majority vote because that leaves a dissatisfied minority. "Their natural way of doing things is to discuss among themselves at great length and group by group until public opinion as a whole has settled overwhelming in one direction," LaFarge wrote. "Opposition is expressed by abstention," he concluded. Nevertheless, the BIA approved the constitution and created the first Hopi Tribal Council. ************************************************** Bob Dorman redorman@plix.com "The Activist Page" [sometimes one site may be down, so bookmark both of these. The plix.com site is probably faster] http://www.plix.com/~users/redorman/ http://www.geocities.com/CapitolHill/Lobby/1279/ --------- "RE: BIA and Cherokee Nation" --------- Date: Mon, 12 May 1997 18:54:42 GMT From: gehring.1@postbox.acs.ohio-state.edu (Glenn Gehring) Subj: **BIA and Cherokee Nation** brief update Newsgroups: alt.native,soc.culture.native The BIA deadline passed without incidence. However, the Cherokee Marshals are now in violation of the BIA's orders to vacate the Cherokee courthouse. Please continue to send letters asking that the BIA police do not participate in any enforcement action against any segment of Cherokee Nation's government. For those who want more information, the Oklahoma media are covering this crisis. You can follow the crisis from the beginnings on the Internet. Go to the following web page (Tulsa World is the Tulsa, Oklahoma newspaper), and click on the "search" option. Then, leave everything blank except the "Keywords". Type in "Byrd". Then under year you can limit the search to 1997. There is a lot to read. http://www.tulsaworld.com/scripts/tulsaworld.dll/Cover? You can also go to the Cherokee Observer web page for more information: http://www.serve.com/Yvwii/Cherokee/Observer.shtm Assistant Secretary of the Interior, Ada Deer Department of the Interior Bureau of Indian Affairs 1849 C Street NW Washington DC, 20240 Secretary of the Interior, Bruce Babbitt Department of the Interior 1849 C Street NW Washington DC, 20240 email: bruce_babbitt@ios.doi.gov President Clinton 1600 Pennsylvania Ave. Washington, D.C. 20500 e-mail: president@whitehouse.gov Phone: (202) 456-1414 Fax: (202) 456-2883 --------- "RE: Indian Law info" --------- Date: Mon, 12 May 1997 18:15:47 -0400 From: Sonja Keohane Subj: Indian Law info..and NARF Mailing List: NATIVELIT Good evening all, http://www.narf.org/ Found this information on the NARF site...I think someone mentioned something earlier today about Indian Law. This same page has an article about the Venetie Indians of Alaska and their fight for sovereign rights. This a long page of lots of text, but imo, its worth a look through. NARF is working on expanding their site with searchable archives. http://www.narf.org/archives/nlr/nlr22a.htm NARF RESOURCES AND PUBLICATIONS THE NATIONAL INDIAN LAW LIBRARY For the modern-day Indian, information is priceless in helping their fight to keep tribal homelands intact and traditional tribal ways alive. The National Indian Law Library has been providing Indian tribes and Indian law attorneys with a wealth of Indian law materials for the past 25 years. The materials are documents ranging from legal pleadings written in vital Indian law cases (from Tribal court to United States Supreme Court) to a collection of Tribal codes (there are about 510 federally recognized tribes in the United States.) The National Indian Law Library began as a special library project of the Native American Rights Fund. It was initially designed to serve as a clearinghouse for materials on American Indian Law for tribes, private and tribal attorneys, legal service programs, law firms, federal and state governments and agencies, and for students. Essentially, it was intended to carry out one of the Native American Rights Fund's priorities, the systematic development of Indian law. Over time, The National Indian Law Library has become the sole repository of Indian law materials in the nation. The Library fulfills its function by collecting all available materials related to Indian law. These materials are catalogued on a customized library application software database and indexed for inclusion in the National Indian Law Library Catalogue. The National Indian Law Library Publications For Sale: (Prices are subject to change, shipping and handling charges are additional) The Bibliography on Indian Economic Development, 2nd Edition. Designed as a tool for the protection and regulation of commercial activities on Indian reservations. Included in the bibliography are articles, monographs, memoranda, Tribal codes, and miscellaneous materials on Indian economic development. Cost for this title is $30.00. The National Indian Law Library Catalogue, Volume I. One of The National Indian Law Library's major contributions to the development of Indian law is the creation of this catalogue. It is arranged by subject-matter index, author-title index, plaintiff-defendant index, and NILL number listing. Cost for The National Indian Law Library Catalogue, Volume I is $85.00; the 1985 Supplement is $10.00; the 1989 Supplement is $30.00. Top Fifty: A Compilation of Significant Indian Cases, compiled by the National Indian Law Library, costs $85.00. Other Publications Offered For Sale by The National Indian Law Library: (Prices are subject to change, shipping and handling charges are additional) American Indian Law: Cases and Materials, 3rd edition, 1991, by Robert N. Clinton, Neil Jessup, Monroe E. Price, price is $45.00. American Indian Law: Cases and Materials, 3rd edition, 1992 Supplement, by Robert N. Clinton, Neil Jessup, Monroe E. Price, price is $10.00. American Indian Law in a nutshell, 2nd edition, 1988, by William C. Canby, price is $16.00. American Indians, Time and the Law, 1986, by Charles F. Wilkinson, price is $13.00. Battlefields and Burial Grounds, 1994, by Walter Echo-Hawk and Roger Echo-Hawk, price is $15.00. Code of Federal Regulations, Title 25, 1995, published by U.S. Government Printing Office, price is $15.00. Federal Indian Law, Cases and Materials, 3rd edition, 1993, by David Getches, Charles Wilkinson, and Robert A. Williams, Jr., price is $54.00. Felix S. Cohen's Handbook of Federal Indian Law, 1992 edition, edited by Rennard Strickland, price is $85.00. Handbook of American Indian Religious Freedom, 1991 edition, edited by Christopher Vescey, price is $15.00. The Indian Child Welfare Handbook: A Legal Guide to the Custody and Adoption of Native Americans, 1995, published by the American Bar Association, price is $69.95. Indian Claims Commission Decisions 1946-1978. This forty- three volume set reports the work of the Indian Claims Commission. Each volume is sold separately at a cost of $25.00. The ICCD Index is sold at $25.00. Indian Land Area Map, 1992, published by the U.S. Department of the Interior, price is $5.00. Mending the Circle: A Native American Repatriation Guide, 1996, published by the American Indian Ritual Object Repatriation Foundation, price is $40.00. The Rights of Indians and Tribes, 2nd edition, 1992, by Stephen L. Pevar, price is $8.00. ........................................................... There is also a page to email the webmaster to request information or legal assistance: http://www.narf.org/narfmail.htm -- Sonja --------- "RE: Gathering in NY" --------- Date: Thu, 8 May 1997 13:02:06 -0400 (EDT) From: Bonny9@aol.com Subj: Gathering in NY UUCP email There are 2 reservations here, Cattaraugus and Allegheny. I have spoke to some Native American Cattaraugus Marshalls who state they don't want a presence there, but on the Allegheny rez I was told by those who are at the encampment just off 17(35 feet off), in Steamburg that supporters were welcome to camp there. This is a camp that has had a fire burning since this began April 1st, and these people say they will stay here until it is done. They have been through rain, snow, and wind. But to remember this is a war zone, not a vacation. License Plate numbers are taken down and pictures will be taken by the Pataki Troopers. I have 2 media people that state if I can give them a hook they will be here, (we'll see). Also many available places to stay in the area, we have Allegheny State Park just adjacent to the Allegheny res. and 3 hotel/motel in Salamanca, 1 native owned. I think the Cattaraugus Marshalls (who were put in place by the Seneca Counsel) are there to prevent any more violence on I-90. Along 17 we burn a fire, dance native dances, and wave at the supporters that go by. If you were to come, it would be quite possible to tour both reservations in one day. Also I have started a food drive, bring or send whatever donated non- perishable food you can, we have a make shift ware house at 70 Lexington Street, Salamanca New York 14779 or if you would prefer to donate money send checks to Allegheny Friends, PO Box 12, Salamanca NY 14779. This is to benefit those who lost there jobs due to the tax dispute and those who keep the fire burning in Steamburg. Please E-mail me at Bonny9, or my partner in the food drive InDnheart@aol.com if you have any questions about any of this. Nawah Skano --------- "RE: A Hundred Years Ago" --------- Date: Fri, 9 May 1997 13:00:52 -0700 From: Landis Subj: History - A Hundred Years Ago - Week 2 Mailing List: NAT-FILM THE INDIAN HELPER ==================================== PRINTED EVERY FRIDAY --AT THE-- Indian Industrial School, Carlisle, Pa., BY INDIAN BOYS. ---> THE INDIAN HELPER is PRINTED by Indian boys, but EDITED by The man-on-the band-stand who is NOT an Indian. --------------------------------------------- P R I C E: --10 C E N T S A Y E A R ============================================= Entered in the P.O. at Carlisle as second class mail matter. ============================================= Address INDIAN HELPER, Carlisle, Pa. Miss M. Burgess, Manager. ============================================= Do not hesitate to take the HELPER from the Post Office for if you have not paid for it some one else has. It is paid for in advance. ============================================== VOL. XII. FRIDAY, MAY 14, 1897 NUMBER 31 ============================================== Maria Marmon, who was reported ill with pneumonia, in the country, is rapidly recovering. Dr. Montezuma writes that he is "still on the war path and will not stop until the true Americans are absorbed into civilization." The Doctor may still be found at 100 State St., Chicago. The Chicago civilization has surely absorbed ONE Apache. Sixty views of our school, in the form of a souvenir will be sent FREE to any one sending us ten subscriptions for the HELPER and two cents extra to pay postage. The booklet sells for 25 cents cash, postpaid. A very good idea of the school may be had by a look through these photographic illustrations. It is not a good plan for an Indian boy or girl to change his or her name, to satisfy the whims of some friend or other. Don't do it! Don't be PERSUADED to do it! Retain your father's last name always. That is the name by which you will be known when you come to inherit his property. If you wish to adopt a friend's name do so by writing it BEFORE your father's name. By following the advice of the Man-on-the-band-stand, you may save yourself some trouble in the future. ___________________________ The death of Julia Jonas, last week, touched the hearts of all with a peculiar sadness, coming as it did immediately after her graduation. Julia was with us six years. She came from Idaho and was of the Nez Perce tribe. She began in school No. 6, and passing through all the grades reached No. 12 and graduated with this year's class, although she was not able to take her final examinations nor to be photographed with the rest of the class. She has been confined to the hospital for three months, a great sufferer during the latter part of the time, from tuberculosis of the lungs. At the side of her dying daughter for the past two or three weeks sat the mother, who came all the long distance from Idaho to see her daughter die, as she expressed it. She speaks no English, but through her son who came with her, she said, "I have seen my husband and six of my children die with consumption, and I came to see this, my seventh." Julia was conscious to within an hour of her death, and took great comfort in talking with her mother. An impressive funeral service was held in the school chapel, Rev. Dr. Norcross, of the Second Presbyterian Church of Carlisle, officiating. The casket was completely covered with flowers, offerings from teachers, friends and the Nez Perce pupils. The body was embalmed and taken to Idaho. The party in charge consisted of Mrs. Harriet Elder Stuart, Mr. Levi and Mrs. Jonas, who left on Friday evening. _________________________________ Two Comanche Chiefs - Quanah Parker and Big Lookingglass, with William Tivis, class '90, as interpreter, a Kiowa chief, Ah-pea-tone, with John D. Jackson, Chilocco student as interpreter, and Apache Chief John, formed an interesting delegation of visitors this week, on their way to Oklahoma from Washington. Quanah Parker's wife Too-nah-suh was with him. With the exception of long braided hair which six of them wore the men were all dressed as civilized people. "I would be ashamed to come back to the school from which I graduated, wearing long hair, as William Tivis did last week," said one of our present advanced boys. The Man-on-the-band-stand could not say a word in his defence. Tivis was very modest about it, however, and his hair was beautifully braided and worn under his coat collar as though he himself was a little ashamed of it. He is looking very well, and we hear many good reports about him. ______________________________________ Frogs in the throat are in fashion. Mr. George Foulke rides a wheel. The lawn mowers sang their first song this week. Matilda Jamison went to her home in New York, last week. For rosy cheeked girls look into the laundry these warm days. George Suis, ('95) is quite ill with pneumonia, in the school hospital. What one sees depends on what one is, as well as upon what is before one's eyes. The Wisteria vine in front of Captain's residence is at its very finest now, and fills the air with fragrance. James Wheelock and his clarinet went to Mechanicsburg Tuesday evening to assist the Dickinson law students in their presentation of Dr. Jekyl and Mr. Hyde. Two wheels were smashed this week through careless riding. There are times in one's life when it is quite necessary to possess a head and eyes, and one of those times is when riding a bicycle. A reckless rider will be reckless in other lines. Nearly everything we do shows character. Chief Quanah Parker talks better English every time he comes East. If he would lend himself to study for a few months or a year he could talk as well as any one. Ah-pea-tone, the Kiowa chief who was here on Wednesday with the delegation, is a brother of Mrs. Laura Doanmoe, whose history as a Carlisle pupil is well known. The dining-hall is beginning to have a thin aspect, the effect of the summer's exit of pupils to country homes, and yet we have enough pupils left to make two good schools. Have you noticed these fine evenings that after we have been out of the shop for a whole hour, and eaten our suppers, the whistles in town blow for those in the factories to stop work. Who dares to think we have a hard time of it? Up to within a few years hardly a Kiowa could speak English, and most of their business with the Government had to be done through the Comanche tongue. In the past few years they have taken more kindly to schools with the result that a number of their young men and women can now be used as interpreters. ____________________________________________________________________________ by NAT-FILMgroup, UNAT & UNITED Native American Television Broadcast Council Ask about the NAT-IMATION native language vcr/TV/web group--> Info@UNAT.org --------- "RE: Protect What is Ours" --------- Date: Sat, 10 May 1997 20:58:02 -0400 From: "DS Adonaset Fort" Subj: Protect What is Ours Mailing List: Taino-L Oyea, Tau Natiaos, Guatiaos It is an honor that you allow me to speak and to tell the stories that have no beginning and have no end. Allowing each of us to speak is a tradition that we should cherish as did our ancestors. We have spoken sometimes with fire and sometimes with sorrow about the cultural and spiritual rape that we are experiencing at the hands of the 'others', and we are right to do so, and we must continue to resist by speaking with fire and sorrow and with action if necessary. Brothers and Sisters if we lose these things then we have nothing and we end up 'as' nothing. This is the objective of some of the 'others', but they have never prevailed over our spirit and they never will IF we continue to resist. Our ceremonies, sacred objects, identity, and stories are not trinkets, not costumes for 'playing' they "are" the People and all thieves should be made aware that they can not steal our identity without feeling our wrath. My father was a dream talker and teller of stories as was his father, and his father before him. The stories are just as precious as any artifact and are an important part of many ceremonies. The 'others' may hear but the Creator did not give them reasoning to understand because they are our stories. Yet, they steal the stories claim them for their own, and try to deceive us with stories created in their own minds. The stories must be told with respect and how can they respect our ancestors as we do? They do not understand our stories - but we do understand theirs, theirs is intended to deceive and are based on lies, racism and hate. Our stories can only be told and understood if told and heard with love and truth. The stories tell our children who we are and it tells how the Creator brought all things to be. They teach us about our ancestors, creation, one-legged and four-legged brothers, the true meaning of courage, wisdom, understanding, unity, laughter, tears, hope, dignity, respect, and harmony. The stories are passed from one generation to the next. They came to us from the creator, from Brothers and Sisters of wisdom, ancestors, and dreams. If a story comes from a dream, and the dreamer tells the story and then the story is mocked what is really being mocked? Is it the story? Is it the dreamer? Is it the giver of the dream? In the dream the dreamer is told "these are my words, do not forget them" My father, and grandfather and great-grand-father have said this to me many times. When the stories are treated with disdain and misunderstanding then it is not the teller of the story that is being insulted but rather it is the ancestors and the giver of the dreams and those that understand the story that receive the insult. The others can dress, talk, eat, and act like Indians but - like the pot that was made without ever touching the fire their lies will not endure. We will know what is real because we are the vessels that has been hardened by the flames and they are the clay pots that has been molded only in their minds. They are pliable and weak - we are firm and strong. We, who have nothing - share everything but for the 'others' , having nothing is excuse to steal. A true warrior is known by his courage and a true story will be known by its truth. Brothers and Sisters, protect what belongs to the People. You must protect the stories as you would protect the rest of our culture. Adonaset Walk in Harmony adonaset@radix.net --------- "RE: Native American Spirituality" --------- Date: Tue, 06 May 1997 19:25:34 EDT From: elaya@juno.com (Elaya k Tsosie) Subj: Native American Spirituality UUCP email Good evening to everyone-- A small bit about myself I was born in Chinle, AZ on the Navajo rez. My name is Elaya Tsosie and I have four children ages 24, 21, 13 and a son age 5 as well as a 5 year old grandchild. I myself hold a Ph.D. only mine is in history. I do teach Native American courses at a small community college and have developed the courses myself. I teach Native American history, Genocide in America, as well as Native American issues. In my classes I am on a first name basis with my students (most of whom are white). As for so called text books and other books I do not use them. Instead we have in guest speakers and the young men and women also do an exchange program where they will stay with a Native family for a summer and see how life really is. My first day of class all my students are asked to place what they know about Native Americans on a card and hand it in (without their name) and during the semester we discuss and dispel these mostly myths they know. I do not give tests ( anyone can memorize dates and places) instead they do an interview with an Elder. My students are mostly surprised the first day of class to see me walk into the classroom in full traditional Navajo dress. Just to give you an idea that some of us are out there and trying to show the truth in history. I also look forward to any suggestions any of you might have for future courses I might be able to develop for this college. Elaya Tsosie, Ph.D. Navajo Nation --------- "RE: Love and Marriage" --------- Date: Mon, 14 Apr 1997 19:44:03 -0500 (CDT) From: Larry Kibbey Subj: Love and Marriage Mailing List: NATIVELIT Dear Society, If I say I am Indian, that is because I am, that is what you and your intellectual scholars have labeled me, this is how you have portrayed my ancestor's as well as me. Archaeologist, anthropologist, theologist, historians and novelist have written about the culture and belief's about our people for a great number of years and rightfully so, but such is the picture that has been painted of my people, that anymore, our endeavor to express serious regards are considered ill-mannered. No, I do not have a certificate, nor a degree or diploma to show that I am educated and so I write this knowing that I am nothing more than a simple person, whose only desire is to know of certain respects concerning the author's of life. My little children wish to know about the culture and belief's of my people, and I try to tell them about what I know. Only they come home from school and they tell me what I say is wrong. They tell me that the author's of life have told the story of our people, and they say what I tell them isn't so. I wonder, if I should go to the school and address this matter, but I think it would do no good, because I don't have the major credentials that would advocate that I have any wisdom, knowledge or understanding, so how am I to correct this matter? All my life Society, I try to explain to my children that the culture and belief's of our people is very real, that it has a profound meaning that can not be found in any book, and yet I am told that unless my children do not answer properly the questions put before them, they will not graduate and will go through life as nothing more than a "Stupid Indian." Dear Society, your education is good, and it does help our children to learn how to read and write, and yet you tell my children that what doesn't come from a book is not truth, but silly nonsense, something evil or full of superstitions, and so I ask you, what is it that I can say so that you'll understand my concerns and interest of the culture and belief's of my people. Dear Society, maybe it is time to have your many writer's come and share some time with our people who follow the ways of my people, but no, you'd only sell it like you have already done, you and those who think it's okay to do these things, so I must think that maybe it's time you listened to us, if you so desire to know about our culture and belief, because what you have written so far, only comes from minds of ego, and greed and bears little truth about something you only have an idea about. No Society, I am not as educated as you, but neither are you as smart as you claim to be, because in your writing, you have made a mockery and circus of our culture and belief's and have disregarded something you have no idea about, and that will never be shared with you in full, but know that in time you will come to understand our concerns and interest a lot more than what you do now. So in that Dear Society, tell your many author's that the novel's of life that they have written about for money and ego, are nothing more than stories, movies of the minds and that the real author's of life are going to write about truth and that truth will not contain the assimilative factor's they desire, and our people, our children will come to know the culture and belief's of their ancestor's, because all they have to do, is ask the medicine of their people, and all of life's wisdom, knowledge and understanding will be presented to them, and they will come to know that the truth of their people can not be found in any of your books and they will hear our words, our truth and know that what we speak of, comes from life. By Larry Kibby - kibbey@sierra.net 1581 Pinenut Circle Elko Indian Colony, Elko, Nevada 89801 ========================================== "The Indian, America's Prisoner's of War." "Roll # 32814" ========================================== --------- "RE: The Ridge at Agua Reves" --------- Date: Mon, 21 Apr 1997 12:58:51 -0700 (PDT) From: Larry Daley Subj: The Ridge at Agua Reves (2nd draft) Mailing List: Taino-L A second draft The sea, and the Deep of Bartlett was south beyond the high trees of the ridge. The narrow ridge, in my old memory, was a saddle between two higher rainforest covered mountains of the main Maestra. We followed a little, narrow beaten-earth footpath that went between the mix of many thinner trunked white litchen splotched trees and the fewer great trunks of the rainforest giants. There on the forest floor were mosses, some plants, many of them ferns growing, or struggling for light, in the darkness beneath the multiple forest canopies. Looking upward there was just a high, dark, roof of indistinguishable leaves intermingled with branches, epiphytic orchids and tree frog nursing water-holding leaves of the bromeliads, and hanging lianas. We took care to avoid neck-cutting tibisi vines. It was quiet, but then, very dangerous place. A century ago the reporters with the US fleet of Rear-Admiral Sampson, a fleet going to war and to incredibly rapid victory, had looked north from the sea in wonder. The reporters had thought the serrated mountain wall, less than 7,000 feet, was much higher, for the slopes rose so very rapidly from the great depths of the coast-hugging deep of Bartlet almost without interruption to the top of the highest peak in a few, very few, miles. And thus the view from the sea foreshortening by the short distance from sea to peaks gave and gives the illusion of even greater heights, an image of a titanic crenelated fortress wall. >From the mountains towards the south, the slope descended from the thinning forest to the arid, hot sun of the rainshadow, the xerophytic desert plants and the blue sea became a forbidden zone where we could not go by day. These were the slopes on which, in the days of the revolution, the patrolling Batista frigate could kill by long ranging rifled naval cannon. Anyone the ship's officers or crew could spot in the binoculars and telescopes on the sparsely vegetated, steep, very steep, slopes was in serious danger. We were told, we were strictly ordered, not to stray where we could let ourselves be seen from the sea. We escopeteros used to the greener lower mountains and hills of the northern slopes edging the plain of the Cauto tried to memorize every view and every mountain feature. Here clearly the mountains were a huge besieged fortress, a place where the main rebel forces held sway. A place of legend and of then great, now hated heros. The Che's murderous hands are buried not so far away. We listen in innocence awed by heights and the ghosts of the dead as our guide told us of the rebel ambush of Mosquedas elite force. The guide recited last words of Mosqueda's point man, "i smell 3-in-one oil". Here at Agua Reves I read, that Ciro Redondo, one of our rebel heros of that time, died in combat. His past as former member of the socialist youth was carefully hidden from us then. The rebel ambush succeeded and with Ciro Redondo died six, resting and mortally surprised Batista soldiers and sailors. All those dead a human sacrifice to a touted freedom that has not yet come. Ciro Redondo's death saved him from becoming an officer of communist tyranny and exporter of war to South America and Africa. We had up climbed the north slope to the ridge passing near the top and among the surrounding rainforest a gentle garden a place of small bananas groves, tree shaded coffee gardens, and "conuco" raised beds of the yucca, malanga, and boniato root crops. A beautiful place where a little distance to the west the chill, clear, pure, mountain water of the creek, tumbled rapidly down through a little forested ravine, full of great brown sharp edged angular rocks not yet smoothed to the rounded boulders of the stronger lower rivers. The water "el agua" of the mountain creek ran north. The creek running "al reves", running "the wrong way", not to the near by sea, but to the far northern Cauto plains; thus has the name of Agua reves. Suddenly, standing quietly by the trail i saw a thin black face, a jet black face, a face i knew but did not expect, it was Placido the Haitian, this was the land holding of Placido and his quiet, rarely talking, strong brother. So this is what Placido and his brother worked for. So this is what the brothers did when they suddenly left at the end of autumn or early winter after the coffee, they dried, so skillfully and so well, was stored in the big yellow almacen at the Casa de los Generales. This where the brothers went after the money making hard work of the cane cutting harvest of the plains in the winter and early spring was over. This was the future they built for themselves in the highest, remotest, coolest, mountains away from the heavy shimmering heat of the Cauto plains in summer. Placido and I exchanged surprised greetings. Placido and his brother, using the bounty from their fertile well cared for plantings, cooked for and fed the whole group. We ate and ate until we eat no more. Fed now, our bellies full, the now unaccustomed level of blood sugar rising in our veins and arteries, allowed us strength to think of home and times of peace. I remembered how when I lived at the Casa de los Generales, above the Bayamo River on the last northern slopes before the mountains dissolved into the plains. To the north and west of the house were the dozen or so large concrete drying aprons, the secaderos where the coffee was dried in the sun. These were the secaderos that Uncle Rafael, the engineer, Guillermo Ramos the Taino carpenter and the others had so carefully built, so carefully troweled sand mixed cement over the concrete base full of the rounded pebbles of the rivers flood plains to make the surface gently slope away from the raised center rib. There at the signal given by the Haitian brothers, and everybody else hurried to the secaderos. There on the concrete aprons we pushed against the weight of the spread coffee. We pushed hard on the long heavy pole, the handle, of the flat ended, broad wooden spatula like coffee rakes. We gathered the spread out drying layer of coffee berries to the center of the secadero. We would pile the sun drying berries that smelled of red soil dust, raisins, fermented fruit and coffee in long mounds along the slightly raised center of the drying aprons. Then we ran to the pile of yaguas the six, seven or more foot long, perhaps three feet wide, stiff, flattened, sheaths of the royal palm leaves. We with speed, but care, picked up these yaguas, and dragged them to the drying aprons near by. We were in a hurry for the rain was coming and could wet and harm, ruin the valuable coffee cash crop. The rats, the snakes, and the scorpions beneath the yagua pile fled ignored. Then as we dragged the these improbably large, yagua coverings on to, across, and towards the middle of the drying apron. We heard the scraping scratching sound the yaguas made as they rubbed their stiff strangely flat ends from the falling leaves absission layers along the concrete. The yaguas seemed be a bioengineered design from some mythical benign interstellar peace corps, or a gift from gift a kind G-d. How else could such a gift a ready made impermiable board with its slightly raised pattern of fine parallel fibers running along its length, fall from the heights of the unplanted royal palm, ready to build, ready to cover, have arrived to bless Cuba. We covered the drying coffee berries, folding each yagua down the middle on its performed crease in a series of overlapping, rain proof, giant shingles, and very carefully placed wooden planks, and the coffee rakes at about the middle and along the length of the slope of these "shingles" to hold the yaguas down against the driving wind of the tropical rains. Rocks held the yaguas lower edges down so they hugged the concrete and kept out the rain bouncing off the aprons hard surface. Placido's brother could predict exactly when, at what time, each day that thee last, much needed, drying ray of sun would be gone and heavy tropical rain would fall. At the very last second of our work, the rain would come. Then and with a smile of pride and satisfaction on his face, Placidos' brother would watch the first rain drops hit the protecting palm yaguas. All the precious coffee berries were covered and safe from the rain. My uncles would make mental notes to hire the brothers again next year, for nobody could dry coffee as well as they. Amazed seeing this happen day after day, i asked Placido's brother how he did it, he told me expressing the centuries of coffee growing knowledge from Haiti and from Cuba "it will rain soon after the clouds place a foot on the hills." The column reformed after eating and we escopeteros went on towards Las Minas de Frio. Soon after the revolution Placido's brother on a train near Santiago died; he had, for reasons unknown, sticking his head out a window and lost that mind crammed full of the arcane knowledge of coffee growing to another fast passing train. Larry Daley copyright@1997, permission to copy granted for noncommercial purposes. ========================================================================== Para desconectarse: Escriba un mensaje a cuba-off@absint.login.qc.ca ========================================================================== --------- "RE: Summer Camp Job Opening" --------- Date: Mon, 12 May 1997 15:12:15 -0500 (CDT) From: Myra Alexander Subj: Pass this along, Thanks UUCP email AMERICAN INDIAN SUMMER CAMP EPIDEMIOLOGY EDUCATION OPENING Native Americans in Biological Sciences (NABS) of the Department of Microbiology/Molecular Genetics, Oklahoma State University, is seeking a qualified Graduate student, in Epidemiology to be the lead facilitator for mid-high American Indian students participating in a summer camp, Exploring Contemporary Biological Dilemmas, June 1 - 26, 1997, at Oklahoma State University, Stillwater. Applicant must be willing to become knowledgeable about epidemiology in American Indian communities, including any sociological or economic factors that impact American Indian health. While applicant does not have to be Native American, ability to accept the diversity in Native American communities is a must. Personal knowledge of the role of the Indian Health Service in American Indian lives is a very strong plus. Applicant must be willing to learn inquiry-based science facilitating methods by attending the pre-camp in service course to be held at Oklahoma State University on May 27-29. The in-service course is a component of a two-hour credit seminar course, taught by the OSU College of Education. Subsequent components are held during the course of the camp as a means to aid your facilitating skills. This is the fifth Exploring Contemporary Biological Dilemmas camp. This year students role-play a consulting firm presented with a health problem that relates to American Indian communities. The consulting firm model affords the opportunity have a variety of research groups to study one particular aspect of the total problem. Epidemiology is one aspect; other aspects for this year's camp are microbiology, genetics, physiology/biochemistry, epidemiology, and media documentation. This year there will be 25 students, that will break into respective research groups of 4 or 5. While applicants must supply their own transportation to the OSU campus, they will be provided with room and board, and a taxable stipend of $2,000 for their efforts. Additional funding may be available in July. Please send us a letter of inquiry, and three references and telephone numbers to: Myra Alexander-Starr Native Americans in Biological Science Dept. Microbiology/Molecular Genetics Oklahoma State University 306 Life Science East Stillwater, OK 74078-3020 alex@osuunx.ucc.okstate.edu 405-744-6802 405-744-6790 (fax) We'll be glad to answer any questions you might have. NABS is funded by the Howard Hughes Medical Institute. --------- "RE: EPA Summer Position" --------- Date: Mon, 12 May 1997 11:47:23 -0500 From: ALAN MOOMAW Subj: EPA summer position (Tribes in NE) for grad. student Mailing List: NAT-WORK U.S. Environmental Protection Agency Tribal Operations, Strategic Planning Office of Ecosystem Protection 1 Congress Street, JFK Fed. Bldg. Boston, MA 02203 Internship Vacancy: Tribal Liaison Position: Full-time-Summer 10 weeks; Part-time 16 weeks Location: 1 Congress Street, 11th Floor Office, Boston, MA Opening Date: May 15, 1997 Closing Date: May 30, 1997 Area of Consideration: Environmental Protection in Indian Country Special Note: 1 Position for 26 weeks as an ECO Intern in the field of governmental relations and environmental activities with Tribal governments/EPA Duties: The Tribal Liaison (one of the oldest positions within the Indian-EPA-New England program) will be treated as an integral member of the Tribal Operations Staff working with the Regional Indian Coordinator and Regional Indian Program Specialist. Primarily supporting the Regional Indian Work Group, Regional-Tribal Operations Committee, and EPA-Tribe Coordinators in coordination of EPA Indian environmental multi-media activities with the Tribes in collaboration with EPA Tribal Operations personnel. A major focus will be the implementation of and maintenance of the Tribe-EPA Agreements; fulfilling the requirements of training ALL EPA monthly; and, maintaining R-TOC and Tribal relations. The Tribal Liaison will fill the gaps within the current system; as experience, trust and knowledge levels increase, so will the respective duties. EPA is a Trust agency as defined by the Tribes, the Liaison will be required to help maintain that trust. The education received during this tenure is all encompassing-multi-media & inter-governmental. Qualifications: Candidate should be a graduate student, preferably with a background relating to Indians, Tribes, Tribal governments and/or reservations. A academic background with a strong natural science or engineering relating to environmental affairs, Intern will have limited travel within New England and the reservations, be able to work with and converse with R-TOC, NIWG, TOC, EPA-Tribe Coordinators and other EPA personnel. Training will be provided in the "Working Effectively with Tribal Governments", and normal office/computer training and EPA courses in order to function as an efficient Tribal Operations-Tribal Liaison within and without EPA. Length of Project: 26 weeks; Stipend: $10-12.00/hour Vehicle- not required; Public Transportation -Good Send a letter, no more than two pages long, describing, why you want to work with EPA & the New England Tribes; and, a Resume, of no more than two pages with 3-references included-to above address: and, Contacts: Terry Regan CSP Regional Indian Program Specialist 617-565-3529 (F) 4940 Stephanie Dacko, ECO 617-426-4375 x147 (F) 8159 --------- "RE: Lubicon Cree West Coast Tour" --------- From: "SCHWARZBAUER PETER" Date: Mon, 12 May 1997 08:11:25 MET-1MEST Subj: Lubicon Cree West Coast Speaking Tour UUCP email Hello, The following is notice of the upcoming Lubicon Cree : West Coast Speaking Tour. Please post this where appropriate and send it to anyone you know who may be interested and able to attend. Thanks for your help. -------- Notice ------------------ THE LUBICON CREE : WEST COAST SPEAKING TOUR : MAY 15-19, 1997 Vancouver, Bellingham, Olympia, Seattle, Portland Come hear about the remarkable Lubicon struggle first-hand from : Dwight Gladue, Lubicon Cree Fred Lennarson, advisor to the Lubicon Cree Kevin Thomas & Stephen Kenda, Friends of the Lubicon (Toronto) Ed Bianchi, Aboriginal Rights Coalition & Friends of the Lubicon Find out how you can join the ever-expanding network of Lubicon supporters fighting unbridled, destructive corporate control in our society. Agenda: Dwight Gladue is a member of the Lubicon Lake Nation Council. Over the last couple of decades Dwight and his people have faced up to the combined forces of oil & gas multinationals, forestry companies, government bureaucrats and elected officials. In each city, Dwight Gladue & Fred Lennarson will speak about the ongoing struggle of the Lubicon people to defend their lands and about the impact on the community of unbridled resource exploitation. Members of Friends of the Lubicon will talk about successful campaigns against corporations in your home town that are linked to the destruction of the Lubicon, and about combatting corporate use of the legal system to silence critics. A 25 minute video on the Lubicon, "A Fight Against Time", will be shown. A question and answer session will round out each night. Goal: The goal of the speaking tour is to provide an opportunity for individuals & groups to learn more about how they can support the Lubicon Cree. Schedule: Thursday May 15 - 7 pm Vancouver, The Vancouver Unitarian Church, 949 - West 49th Ave, For more info: 604-736-4624 (Dawn Mills) Friday May 16 - Noon Bellingham, Western Washington University, Wilson Library Presentation Room For more info: 360-650-6125 (Peace Resource Centre) Friday May 16 - 7:30 pm Olympia, Evergreen State College, The Longhouse : Cedar Room For more info: 360-866-6000 x6105 (Native Student Alliance) Sunday May 18 - 7 pm Seattle, Black Cat Cafe, 4110 Roosevelt Way NE For more info: 206-723-4703 (Dan Clarke) Monday May 19 - 7 pm Portland, Rexall Rose Cafe and Theatre, 2403 NE Alberta St. For more info: 503-245-3866 (Chiapas Urgent Call) Focus of the Presentations: In VANCOUVER, it's the LUBICON CREE AND UNOCAL Unocal Information Campaign (UIC) was formed in 1995. UIC is a citizens' group endorsed by a coalition of human rights, environmental and other grassroots groups, including Friends of the Lubicon. UIC is concerned with the highly questionable corporate practices of Unocal, a California-based gas and oil company. In the province of Ontario, Canada, UIC focussed on Consumers Gas, one of Unocal's largest Canadian gas clients. Recently, Consumers announced they will not renew their contract with Unocal. This leaves no known significant Unocal customers in Ontario. B.C.'s activist community is established, knowledgeable, committed and effective. The head office of B.C. Gas is in Vancouver. B.C. Gas is Unocal's largest gas client in Canada. In BELLINGHAM, OLYMPIA, SEATTLE & PORTLAND, it's the LUBICON CREE & DAISHOWA Friends of the Lubicon is a Canadian organization that focuses on confronting corporations on issues of Native land rights and the environment. Through their enormously successful boycott of Daishowa paper products, Friends of the Lubicon has been instrumental in preventing the transnational paper company Daishowa from clearcutting unceded Lubicon land for the last six years. Daishowa claims the boycott has cost them upwards of $10 million in lost sales. Three of the organizers are now facing a multi-mill ion dollar lawsuit launched by Daishowa in an effort to shut down the boycott and intimidate supporters. The lawsuit appears to be part of the growing American phenomenon of SLAPP suits: "Strategic Lawsuits Against Public Participation", legal proceedings brought by corporations to deter or punish lawful public participation in the democratic process. The defendants will speak about organizing effective opposition to unjust corporate practices, Native land rights, SLAPP suits, and consumer action for social justice in the age of transnational corporations. There will be a screening of the video "Fight Against Time" by On Cue Film and Video (1995), a short and gripping account, in their own words, of the Lubicon peoples' battle to survive as a community. As a result of Daishowa's heavy-handed tactics in Canada, a Seattle-based Daishowa Boycott is now off and running in the States. --------- "RE: Poem: A Song On The Four Winds" --------- Date: Thu, 17 Apr 1997 12:59:15 -0400 From: Larry Kibbey Subj: *A Song On The Four Winds* UUCP email *A Song On The Four Winds* Through the mountains, Through the tree tops, Through the valleys, And over the plains, A song is traveling On the Four Winds. It is a song, Of the past; It is a song Of the Present; It is a song Of the future; It is a song On the Four Winds. It is a song for the young; It is a song For the old; It is a song For the living; It is a song For the dead; It is a song On the Four Winds. It is a song For me; It is a song For you; It is a song For all to hear; A song to return To a way of life; To a belief; A song of the Indian. It is a song On the Four Winds. December 30, 1990 By ================================================== = Larry Kibby - kibbey@sierra.net = = Elko Indian Colony = = Western Shoshone Historic Preservation Society = = 1581 Pinenut Circle, Elko, Nevada 89801 = = Phone: (702) 738-4147 Fax: (702) 738-7070 = ================================================== --------- "RE: Verse: Hawaiian Book of Days" --------- Date: Mon, 5 May 97 07:14:00 GMT From: Debra F. Sanders Subj: Hawaiian Book of Days UUCP email A HAWAIIAN BOOK OF DAYS, week of May 18-24 MEI (May) (Ikiiki) 18 Come to me in the first light of dawning, when all things are begun anew. 19 The setting sun flashes briefly green upon the surface of the ocean. 20 The islands rise up from the ocean floor to greet the sky! 21 The wind and the rain join together to create life. 22 Life always reveals new possibilities. 23 Feast upon the riches of the land. 24 Follow the paths of the stars, and you will never be lost. (c) Copyright 1991 by D. F. Sanders Me ke aloha i ka nani, ... Moe'uhanekeanuenue (With love and beauty, ... Rainbow Dream) --------- "RE: Conferences and Powwows - offline" --------- Date: Thu, 15 May 97 08:00 -0500 From: Janet Smith (evestar@juno.com) Subj: Upcoming conferences and powwows not previously posted to Mailing List NATIVE-L UUCP email Date: Tue, 6 May 1997 16:29:28 -0500 From: berryj@okway.okstate.edu (John Berry) Subject: (FWD)Bitterroot Valley Pow Wow-Montana Western Montana's 4th Annual Bitterroot Valley Good Nations Pow Wow July 25, 26, & 27, 1997 held at the Historic Daly Mansions Grounds in Hamilton Montana Contest and Prizes in all Categories All Drummers welcome - first 7 drums paid Refreshments and food for all dancers and drummers Grand Entry 6:00 p.m. - Friday, 25th 1:00 & 6:00 p.m Sat 26th noon Sunday 27th Registration begins 4:00p.m. Friday and ends 3:00p.m. Saturday Host Drum - Eagle Sisters Co-host Drum - Eagle Pass 24 hour security - Dry camping only for dancers, drummers and vendors. Spectator Admission Family of 4 - $15.00 General Admission - $5.00 Elders (55 & up) $3.00 Children (5 & under) - Free For Dancer information, call Roberta (406) 363-0012 For Vendor information, call April (406) 961-3499 Mail inquiries to: Good Nations Pow Wow P.O. Box 1421 Hamilton, Mt 59840 NO ALCOHOL, DRUGS OR FIREARMS PERMITTED -------------------------------------------- From: NativeEvents@caraveo.com Subject: U/OK-GOOD MEDICINE SOCIETY'S SUMMER CELEBRATION OF SOBRIETY Date: 7 May 1997 11:07:58 -0400 These NEW event listings have been forwarded to you by the Native Events Calendar Visit us at http://www.caraveo.com/native/ Note: The state codes may not be correct for Mexico and Canada listings ---------------------------------------------------------------- GOOD MEDICINE SOCIETY'S SUMMER CELEBRATION OF SOBRIETY 6/14/1997 State: OK Country: USA Type: Powwow At the Kitchens of America Building at the State Fair Grounds in Oklahoma City M.C Sammy "Tonkei" White Head Gourd Singer John Kimble Head Man Dancer Justin Yearby Head Lady Dancer Henrietta Stoneroad-Crowles Head Girl Dancer Deidra Saumty Host Gourd Clan Cedar Lodge Supper will be served in honor of Tashina Goodbear by her family Gourd dancing 2:00-5:00 Supper 5:00-6:00 Gourd dancing 6:00-7:00 Grand entry 7:00 ---------------------------------------------------------------- Honoring Our Youth and Education Pow Wow 6/14/1997 State: CA Country: USA Type: Powwow Southern California Indian Center Honoring our Youth and Education Pow Wow Saturday, June 14, 1997 11:00 am to dusk Gourd Dancing 11:00 am Grand Entry 12:00 pm Contest Categories for youth up to 17 years of age at the Native American Methodist Church 800 S. Lemon Street Anaheim, CA 92805 Head Staff is all-youth who have adult advisors. Door Prizes- Indian Foods- Arts and Crafts- Mini Health Education & Career Fair For more information call (714) 663-1102 or (213) 728-8844 See homepage at http://home.earthlink.net/~indiancenter/ SCIC is not liable for theft, injury, or personal cost. ---------------------------------------------------------------- David Ferris 6/27/1997 State: WY Country: USA Type: Other INDIAN TAXATION & TRIBAL SOVEREIGNTY SEMINAR JUNE 25th, 26th & 27th, 1997 The Inn @ Lander 260 Grand View Road, Lander, WY 82520 For Reservation call: 307-332-2847 CONTACT: WIND RIVER ASSOCIATES Tel: 307-332-5437 Fax: 307-332-7060 ---------------------------------------------------------------- Rocky Mountain Indian Festival 6/7/1997 State: CO Country: USA Type: Other A 2 day festival June 7&8, 1997, to be held at Heritage Grove, in Evergreen, Colo. This event has been organized to raise funds to held our brothers in need for all purposes. There will be singing, dancing and other things for the cause. There will also be vendor booths for any and all Native Americans to sell their wares and or to teach people about our ways and our needs as people. Anyone interested can call either of the people listed below, Kay Swenson 303-838-9635 or Sandra Matchen 303-838-5627. Thank you, Kay ---------------------------------------------------------------- TRIANGLE NATIVE AMERICAN SOCIETY 5/31/1997 State: NC Country: USA Type: Powwow THE POW WOW IS LOCATED AT THE NORTH CAROLINA STATE FARMERS ON LAKE WHEELER Rd. RALEIGH NC. HOST DRUM WILL BE RED WOLF SINGERS ALSO SCUFFLE TOWN DRUM WILL BE PERFORMING IT IS OPEN TO THE PUBLIC 10:00am SAT. & 12 NOON SUN PLEASE COME -- ALL DANCERS ARE WELCOME ---------------------------------------------------------------- 26th Annual Artists and Craftsman Show 7/19/1997 State: NM Country: USA Type: Other Largest Arts and Craft Show put on by Native Americans in the US. Being held at San Ildefonso Pueblo in New Mexico. ---------------------------------------------------------------- Los Angeles Celebrity Powwow 6/21/1997 State: CA Country: USA Type: Powwow Contest pow wow featuring leading American Indian stars of tv and film. Steve Revis, Elaine Miles, Saginaw Grant, Michel Horse, and more. Saturday 10:00 am to 10:00 pm Sunday 10:00 am to 6:00 pm Admission: $6.00 adults $4.00 kids Sponsored by the Los Angeles Parks and Recreation information 805/496-6036 ---------------------------------------------------------------- Casa de Fruta Red Road Celebration Pow Wow 5/26/1997 State: CA Country: USA Type: Powwow Come on out and celebrate the successful 12th annual...and yet another year of the strong Inter-tribal Native community in the Bay Area, California, and beyond. Red Road is during the four days of the Memorial Day Weekend. Check out this new web page: http://homepage.usr.com/i/indianclub/37963.shtml ---------------------------------------------------------------- Tribal/State Relationships in Child Welfare 6/10/1997 State: OO Country: USA Type: Other We are the Children's Division of the American Humane Association and will be sponsoring a Teleseminar on Tuesday,June 10, 1997 on: "Tribal/State Relationships in Child Welfare: Ensuring High Quality Services for American Indian Children and Families." This will be a 90 minute call-in teleconference. Presenters are Charlotte Goodluck, Ph.D. Candidate at University of Denver. Ms. Goodluck is a Navajo social worker. Others presenters are Bill Veliz, Director, Puyallup Tribe Children's Service Agency in Tacoma, WA; Kathy Deserly, Indian Child Welfare Specialist for Montana Dept. of Health & Human Services; and Donald Schmid, Director of Children & Family Services for North Dakota. The times for the teleconference are 1:00 - 2:30 p.m. Eastern; 12:00 - 1:30 p.m. Central; 11:00 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. Mountain; and 10:00 a.m. - 11:30 a.m. Pacific. To register, or for more information, contact Jennifer Olson at 303/546-2905 or e-mail: jennifer@amerhumane.org. Cost is $75 for the telephone hook-up, but there is no limit on the number of people who can participate via speakerphone. Deadline for registration is May 30th. Thanks much. Robyn Alsop, Managing Editor Children's Division American Humane Association robyn@amerhumane.org ---------------------------------------------------------------- From: crawford@bscr.uga.edu Subject: May 17 Toli Game Date: 9 May 1997 15:33:15 GMT The University of Georgia Flying Rat Toli Team will be travelling to Albany, Georgia May 17th to play a demonstration Cherokee-style Toli game against a team from Cherokee, North Carolina as part of the Chehaw National Indian Festival. The Festival runs from May 16-18 and is being held in Chehaw Park in Albany, Georgia. Below is the Schedule of Events, with the Toli Demo being held at 4:00 PM Saturday. Hope to see you there! And for more information check out the Flying Rat Toli Team site (http://www.uga.edu/~toli/) or the Chehaw National Indian Festival Site (http://www1.surfsouth.com/~nifa/) See ya! Gene Crawford Schedule of Events $5.00 Adults $3.00 Children under 12 FRIDAY - May 16, 1997 10:00 am - 2:00 pm Special School Day Program - Special programs for children pre-K through 8th Grade.Admission is $2.00 per student. Teachers free! The children will witness the dances, and hear the old old stories of wisdom and truth. The focus is on Mother Earth and respect for elders and their wisdom. 7:00 p.m. Lighting of the Ceremonial Fire 8:00 pm Grand Entry 9:30 pm Hoop dances of the world - Aztec fire dances, dance team from Mexico City - open dances, intertribal dances, 10:30 pm Indian games and contest (switch dance, and other fun games) Midnight Park closes - Gates close - No one will enter the park after 1:00 am. Saturday - May 17, 1997 $5.00 Adults $3.00 Children under 12 9:00 am Gates Open 10:00 am Demonstrations begin in demonstration area Story telling & lectures in Main Arena 11:30 am Intertribal and social dances 1:00 pm GRAND ENTRY Posting of colors by the Etowah Veterans Color Guard A special ceremony honoring all war veterans. If you are a veteran of a foreign war, you do not want to miss this ceremony. Please be early and get seating close to the arena and the inner circle because you will be called into the Ring of Honor. 2:00 pm War dances of the plains Indians Fancy, Grass, & Jingle Dress Hoop dance competition begins. 4:00 pm Stickball Game Kapucha toli, or Toli, or simply stickball is a traditional Native American game of the Choctaw, Seminole, Creek and Cherokee. It is also known as the "Little Brother of War" and was often used instead of war. This years game will be between the Aztec social dance - Dance team from Mexico City, Mexico. Saturday night Begins a night full of excitement under special lighting 7:00 pm Lighting of ceremonial fire. 8:30 pm Grand Entry Special Veterans Honor Dance by the Etowah Honor Guard Traditional dance, Fancy dances, Jingle and Grass dances Hoop Dance Competition Aztec Dance Team (Mexico City, Mexico) Social and Intertribal dances 11:30 pm Park closes Sunday - May 18, 1997 9:00 am Gates Open Activities follow same schedule as Saturday with additional social dances and Intertribals 2:00 pm Grand Entry See Saturday schedule 4:30 pm Awards ceremony 5:30 pm Closing ceremony --------------------------------------------------------------------- Date: Fri, 09 May 1997 16:15:55 -0400 From: ishgooda@tdi.net Subject: Firehair's Pow Wow ---------- FORWARDED MESSAGE ---------- From: FirehairSS@aol.com Subject: Firehair's Pow Wow Date: Fri, 21 Mar 1997 10:02:40 -0500 (EST) FIFTH ANNUAL NATIVE AMERICAN HERITAGE DAYS POW WOW 30, 31 May, 1 June 1997 Pilot, NC--Franklin Co., located on Hwy #39--easy access from #64 west of Rocky Mount, 401 N. out of Raleigh, US40/ 85 E. to 70 to 98 from the West, down 85 to 39 at Henderson, NC 39 Sth from there. KEN CAMERON - M.C. DANCERS WELCOME--MEALS, GIVE-A-WAY. NO COMPETITION NO CARDS TRADERS BY CONTRACT ONLY - 3 DAYS, $75--camping, water, electric provided Children's Day is Friday the 30th--Come in and set up on Thursday, your schedule. All Drums welcome--Free Trader space, Blanket Dance, meal, camping Lots of room for lodges, demonstrators encouraged. Native only, please - this is a Traditional gathering--a family event. No Drugs, No alcohol, No firearms. PILOT LIONS CLUB donate their land at no charge, are pleased to have this event., have welcomed us with enthusiasm, courtesy. Our raffle will be held and given to their Park Project. Further info - Firehair (919) 496-1604 ---------------------------------------------------------------- Date: Fri, 9 May 1997 15:01:42 -0700 (PDT) From: Rio Lara-Bellon Subject: Shamanic Wisdom and Conservation I jes' couldn't help myself and had to pass this announcement (see below) along to the rest of the EIRP crew. I especially liked the paragraph: ECT's approach revolves around local peoples knowledge and use of biological diversity. Integrated initiatives are developed with local communities to promote their self determined interests and the ecosystems in which they live. I'd like to see some presentation at our next EIRP Conference address issues of indigenous knowledge, biological diversity, and maybe ... stream and habitat restoration using native plants AND native plants as alternative crops. BTW, how many of you have received the Florida announcement? I'll post the notice in full in another message. Wouldn't want to mix things up too much:) -Rio- ---------- Forwarded message ---------- Date: 9 May 1997 19:07:11 GMT From: Van Radford "Shamanic Wisdom and Conservation in the Internet Age" An evening with Dr. Mark Plotkin and members of The Ethnobiology and Conservation Team featuring: DATE: Friday, May 9th, 1997 PLACE: The Golden Gate Club 135 Fisher Loop, The Presidio,San Francisco, California USA TIME: 7:30 - 9:00 pm Pacific Time. ECT's approach revolves around local peoples knowledge and use of biological diversity. Integrated initiatives are developed with local communities to promote their self determined interests and the ecosystems in which they live. The panelists include the following: Mark Plotkin, ethnobotanist and author of "Tales of a Shaman's Apprentice" and ECT project director; Don Luciano Matumbajoy, esteemed shaman and co)director of the Shaman Apprentice Program in the Colombian rainforest; Miranda Smith, award winning filmmaker who's best known for her film "Voice of the Amazons" which documents the life of Chico Mendes, the slain Brazilian rubbtertapper who dedicated his life to saving the rainforest; and Gary Nabhan, ethnobotanist who will discuss the Seri Indian Education project documenting Seri environmental knowledge and the Hopi project which teaches young Hopi how to grow, conserve and use traditional medicinal and food plants. There is no charge for this event and you are warmly invited. ECT's web address: http://ethnobotany.org ........................................................................... Rio Lara-Bellon Reservation Extension Program WSU-CE/Confederated Chehalis Tribes Tel: 360.273.5911 P.O. Box 100 Fax: 360.273.6414 Rochester, WA 98579 Email: larabell@wsu.edu ........................................................................... --------------------------------------------------------------------- Date: Sun, 11 May 1997 16:31:06 -0400 From: ishgooda@tdi.net Subj: Fwd: Pow Wow In Idaho: ------- FORWARD, Original message follows ------- Date: 97-05-10 00:57:45 EDT From: FLORES5 To: AIMAZ Andy, Would appreciate it very much if you could pass this on for one of my NiMiPoo brothers. Thanks, Naida --------------------- Forwarded message: Subj: Re: Pow Wow In Idaho: Date: 97-05-10 00:43:04 EDT From: NEEMEPO To: FLORES5 HOST DRUM: Kicking Woman, from Browning Mt. MC: Ray McConville, Boise Idaho Head Man: John Murie, Cree Head Woman Dyonnie Smith Navajo 100% of Gate goes to Competition events 30,000 in prize money awarded last year All Drums , Dancers, and public welcome Alcohol, and drug free event The Event is called 7th International Montour Pow Wow For more information, please call Jim at 208 343 1528....or 208 642 2900, evenings, with the exception of wednesday....Still looking for vendors too. Thanks again, for the help, our last year celebration was crowded, pulled about 8000 people into a remote area, with 5 drum and about 200 dancers ---------------------------------------------------------------- Date: Sun, 11 May 1997 17:24:09 -0500 (CDT) From: Carol Liu Subject: CALL FOR ENTRIES: NMAI N.A. Film/Video Festival CALL FOR ENTRIES Submissions are being sought for the National Museum of the American Indian's tenth Native American Film and Video Festival to be held in New York City on October 30-November 3, 1997. The Festival features films, videos, radio programs and CD-ROMs from North, Central and South America and Hawai'i. It showcases productions by Native media makers and works reflecting Native perspectives, including independent features, documentaries, experimental works and tribal community productions. Only works produced in 1995 or later are eligible for selection. There is no entry fee, but works must be accompanied by an Entry Form available from the Film and Video Center ONLY at (212) 825-6894 or via e-mail (kalafatic@ic.si.edu). SUBMISSION DEADLINE IS MAY 15, 1997. ===================================================================== -------------------------------------------------------------------------- --//--//--//--//--//--//--//--//--//--//--//--//--//--//--//--//--//--//-- Notice of Copyright Clearance by Contributors: The following have granted permission for their original articles to be reposted in order to help mend the Sacred Hoop: Settlers in Support of Indigenous Sovereignty, Nicholas Wilson, Larry Kibby, Adonaset, Edie, Kahnawake Mohawk Nation Office, Sonja Keohane, Ishgooda, Peter Schwarzbauer, Elaya Tsosie, Janet Smith, Don Fort, Myra Alexander, Glenn Gehring, Alan Moomaw, Larry Daley, Debra F. Sanders, Laurie Anne Whitt, Allen Gabriel, Pablo Lonesome Wolf, Ted Jojola, Larry Innes, Bernadette Chato, Jo-anne/Waseskun, Karen J. Gould -//--//--//--//--//--//--//--//--//--//--//--//--//--//--//--//--//--//-- ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ Part B of this newsletter has already been distributed via the NATIVE-L or NATCHAT mailing lists. --------- "RE: Grandmother Doris Minkler Passes" --------- Date: Sat, 10 May 1997 12:40:13 -0400 From: pablo@abenaki.tribal.org (Pablo Lonesome Wolf) Subj: Grandmother Doris Minkler passes Mailing List: NATIVE-L (native-l@gnosys.svle.ma.us) Saturday Morning - May 10, 1997 Grandmother Doris Minkler (Mourning Dove) crossed over this morning. An Abenaki Elder, Grandmother Doris was born in Monkton, Vermont and lived most of her life in Vermont. She had been ill for several years following an illness which left her with a inoperable-fungus in her lung. Both a devout Christian and a traditional elder, Grandmother was known for her ability to heal both physical and spiritual ills. She was responsible for naming hundreds of the people. Her good sense and sense of humor went a long way in placating those frustrated with having to hide their native heritage and later, those who would follow the traditional ways of their ancestors and who were having trouble learning. Many, encouraged by her wisdom, strength and compassion, are openly proud of their heritage and helping to rebuild the Abenaki. Grandmother Doris, poor and humble, was world renowned. Her student and protege, Cheryl Bluto-Devental (Nanatasis), recalls how the phone in her shabby but humble shack would ring and it would be someone from Asia or Europe who had called to share or for advice. Nanatasis also points out how Grandmother helped so many find the Red Road and traditional ways. Arrangements are incomplete as of now. It is with great sadness that I have spoken I am Pablo Lonesome Wolf Abenaki --------- "RE: Raid at Akwesasne" --------- Date: Tue, 29 Apr 1997 19:48:21 -0400 From: bf145@freenet.carleton.ca (Allen Gabriel) Subj: Dawn Raid at Akwesasne Mailing List: NATIVE-L (native-l@gnosys.svle.ma.us) This story compiled from articles in the Ottawa Citizen, Montreal Gazette and Journal de Montreal A one-year undercover investigation culminated in a dawn raid at Akwesasne yesterday. The raid was carried out by 55 R.C.M.P. officers, along with officers from the Akwesasne police, U.S. Border Patrol, N.Y.S. police and the U.S. Customs Service. The operation, dubbed Project Cambiste, netted almost 2,000 litres of alcohol, 900 kilos of tobacco and 4,300 cartons of cigarettes, worth about $450,000. Police also seized about $172,500 in cash. Arrested were: Loran Thompson, Tina Thompson, Edward Roundpoint (Akwesasne), Dimitrios Asprakis (Laval, Quebec), Georges Leblanc and Suzanne Couture-Vallee (Ste-Agnes de Dundee). Loran Thompson, described as a key warrior figure in the 1990 Oka crisis, is being charged with possession and distribution of tobacco products, cigarettes and alcohol. Other charges, filed against the six, include conspiracy to illegally import tobacco products, cigarettes and alcohol. Charges are being laid using a section of the Criminal Code section that removes immunity outside Canada if Canadian law is broken. Warrants have been issued for the arrest of: Lincoln Roundpoint, Anthony Harquette, Joseph Roger Harquette and Fabian Hemlock (all from Akwesasne). --------- "RE: Keweenaw Bay Update" --------- Date: Sat, 10 May 1997 23:22:46 -0400 From: lawhitt@mtu.edu (Laurie Anne Whitt) Subj: Keweenaw Bay Update Mailing List: NATIVE-L (native-l@gnosys.svle.ma.us) [ Please see my note at the end of this article. --Gary ] The trial of federally indicted KBIC tribal chair Fred Dakota was recently moved from Marquette to Grand Rapids Michigan. Excerpts from a 25 March 1997 article are reprinted below, with permission from The Daily Mining Gazette. The KBIC Tribal Council also recently set aside $500,000 for what it refers to as a "sovereignty" fund. According to KBIC's highly paid public relations representative, Rich Rossway, this money will be used to pay the picketers it has hired to demonstrate in front of the Marquette County Courthouse, protesting the change of venue. He indicated that it will also be used to pay for Dakota's legal expenses, which currently total around $130,000. (The Marquette Mining Journal, 1 April 1997) Finally, pro-bono attorneys for Fight For Justice plan to seek federal habeas corpus for FFJ member Robert Curtis Sr. for the violation of his right to counsel under the Indian Civil Rights Act, as well as the International Covenant on Civial and Political Rights. National Lawyers' Guild President Peter Erlinder has also criticized KBIC's newly enacted bar regulations. Excerpts from a 10 May 1997 article in The Daily Mining Gazette are also posted below. For more on these developments, and a history of this struggle (now in its 21st month) see Rose Edwards' home page at ("http://www.edwards1.com/rose/native/ffj/ffj.htm"). You can also consult earlier postings to Native-L at ("http://bioc09.uthscsa.edu/natnet/archive/nl/keweenaw-bay.html"). 25 March 1997 U.P. TRIBAL LEADER TO BE TRIED DOWNSTATE by VANESSA DIETZ The federal trial of Keweenaw Bay Indian Community Chairman Fred Dakota on tax-evasion charges was set to begin Monday in U.S. District Court in Marquette, but a last-minute pretrial conference postponed and moved it. It also put the 59 year-old Dakota's tax evasion charges back together with other federal counts of conspiracy....Before jury selection got under way Monday, Assistant U.S. Attorney Judd Spray requested a change of venue in the case, saying he feared jurors might be influenced by demonstrators outside the courtroom building. Spray noted several "Free Fred" signs displayed on a green KBIC bus by about 21 people in a parking lot at the front of the courthouse. He said signs were in place by 8 a.m., when the jury pool arrived. He noted American Indian Movement and Fight For Justice protestors didn't come on the scene until after the jury pool was inside the courthouse. U.S. District Judge Robert Holmes Bell agreed to move the trial, scheduling proceedings to begin in the federal courthouse in Grand Rapids on Monday, June 9....He said the Marquette County Courthouse simply cannot be conveniently accessed by jurors to ensure they are not met by a barrage of pro- or anti-Dakota propaganda. The potential for jury contamination outweighs any detriments to moving the trial, he said... 10 May 1997 FEDERAL COURT COULD END UP SCRUTINIZING KBIC TRIBAL COURT by VANESSA DIETZ A federal court could end up scrutinizing Keweenaw Bay Indian Community Tribal Court if a tribal dissident is denied his right to legal defense at his trial next week. Fight For Justice member Robert Curtis Sr. may be forced to put his fate in the hands of the jury without an attorney. Curtis' pro-bono attorneys, Alan Clarke and Mark Wisti, declined to apply for admission to the court, as required in a Feb. 21 KBIC resolution. Clarke and Wisti told the judge in a March 10 letter, that if he enforces the resolution they will "immediately seek federal habeas corpus for Bob Curtis for the violation of his right to counsel under the Indian Civil Rights Act as well as the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights to which the U.S. is a signatory."... The KBIC Tribal Council resolution...says only lawyers who apply in writing are eligible to appear in the court. By doing so, the lawyer submits to "the contempt jurisdiction of the tribal court, regardless of whether the court otherwise has jurisdiction," the resolution says. This provision, as well as others in the resolution, were questioned publicly by some of FFJ's pro-bono attorneys. The national president of the National Lawyers' Guild commented on the KBIC resolution at Clarke's request. Guild President Peter Erlinder told Clarke in a May 1 letter: "It is my opinion that this procedure is so fatally flawed that it not only violates the rights of attorneys to due process, but it allows such unfettered discretion on the part of the chief judge that it undermines the integrity of the entire adversary process and the rights of the defendants to zealous representation protected by the Sixth Amendment. "The practice limitations...are far more limiting that those in place in other tribal court systems," he wrote. "It appears that attorneys can only be admitted to practice, and can remain members of the tribal bar, at the sole discretion of the chief judge. This feature alone makes the entire plan suspect...There is no independent body that evaluates candidates for admission and the chief judge is under no obligation to admit anyone who will question" his rulings. Characterizing the qualifications that the tribal court requires of lawyers as "meaningless," he added: "The criteria established for evaluating applicants are sufficiently vague that the criteria provide little direction and fewer limitations, for the chief judge. "Moreover, because the scheme vests so much unfettered discretion in the chief judge to punish or disbar attorneys, the procedures create a potential for serious conflicts of interest with the chief judge whenever zealous advocates challenge the...court. "The provision that application for admission includes submission to contempt jurisdiction makes the aforementioned provision particularly egregious...an attorney could be subjected to an unreviewable contempt citation for violating a subjective standard. "This would allow the tribal court to impose contempt judgments on disfavored attorneys who would not otherwise be subject to any sanction under state law or state bar rules." - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Comments from NativeNet listowner, Gary Trujillo (gst@gnosys.svle.ma.us): I recently received, via snail-mail, a letter on letterhead with the title "Keweenaw Bay Indian Community," and listing Fred Dakota as president. Enclosed also was the eight page text of "Resolution #KB-581-97" which outlines the sense of the situation on the part of those whom the article above describes. The resolution opens with the words "WHEREAS, The Keweenaw Bay Indian Community Tribal Council desires to clearly explain what it is, what it stands for, and faces. Officials within the federal government have abused and misused their power and the public trust in order to bring about the downfall of the legitimate sovereign government of the Keweenaw Bay Indian Community..." Following is the text of the cover letter: To: All Native American Media Organizations From: Keweenaw Bay Indian Community Tribal Council Subject: Federal attack on tribal sovereignty Date: April 17, 1997 Greetings, As the Keweenaw Bay Indian Community progresses towards the 21st Century, we had hoped that the dirty deeds of unscrupulous land- owners and government agents who once preyed upon the Chippewa people were just a sad chapter in our history. We hoped that the broken promises of the Chippewa Treaties of 1842 and 1854 were behind us. Unfortunately, it appears that the United States government's dishonorable treatment of the First People of this land may never change. Officials within the federal government are currently attempting to undermine the legitimate Tribal Council of the Keweenaw Bay Indian Community in order to install a government more to their liking. Please read the enclosed Resolution very carefully. We have sent it to all Native American media organizations in order to enlighten and to warn all tribal people of the potential danger they are facing. Do not take this federal aggression lightly. If it can happen to our tribe it can happen to yours as well! -MEGWETCH- Keweenaw Bay Tribal Center Baraga, Michigan 49908 Phone: 906-353-6623 Fax: 906-353-7540 --------- "RE: Inco Attempts to Undermine" --------- Date: Wed, 7 May 1997 14:12:29 -0400 From: es051322@orion.yorku.ca (Larry Innes) Subj: EMISH ALERT: Inco attempts to undermine Voisey's Bay assessment Mailing List: NATIVE-L (native-l@gnosys.svle.ma.us) EMISH ALERT 1 MAY 1997 INCO ATTEMPTS TO UNDERMINE ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT OF THE VOISEY BAY PROJECT Innu Nation Calls for Rejection of Construction Plans During Environmental Review For the third time in three years, the Voisey's Bay Nickel Company (a subsidiary of Inco) is attempting to build a road, a dock, and a 1250 meter long airstrip at Emish (Voisey's Bay) during the summer of 1997-despite the fact that the entire Voisey's Bay mining project is currently undergoing a public environmental review under an agreement between Canada, Newfoundland, the Labrador Inuit Association and the Innu Nation. The Innu Nation believes that the company is attempting to bypass the Environmental Review Panel that is currently examining the project in order to accelerate the development of the mine and begin production of nickel concentrate by 1999. The Innu Nation has fought and negotiated to ensure that there is a single, comprehensive environmental review of the whole project-all of the parts of what may eventually be a large nickel mine on Innu and Inuit land. The purpose of an environmental assessment is to predict and evaluate the impacts of a project before irreversible decisions are made. Roads and airstrips are irreversible decisions with real impacts, but these impacts can only be appreciated and understood in the context of the mine they are intended to serve. Without an opportunity to review and assess the project as a whole, it is impossible to make responsible decisions about whether or not it should proceed. There are still a number of difficult problems, such as the safe and permanent disposal of mine wastes, which must be resolved. Without a clear picture of the whole project, it is possible that decisions taken today will have to be changed later as these and other considerations are taken into account, which will result in impacts which might have been avoided with proper planning and assessment. The Innu and Inuit will have to live with the consequences. According to the company, this infrastructure is intended to support advanced exploration activities by providing improved access to the site. Voisey's Bay Nickel maintains that the proposed infrastructure is not included in the project under review, but coincidentally the proposed road, airstrip and dock