Early coffee and a quick hi turned into an hour and a half discussion on tribal politics at the Shell gas station. With tribal elections coming up next year individuals are asking my opinion about certain issues and although I am honored that people genuinely seek me out to get my opinion on certain issues, I am ONLY one voter. I do not have any formal training on political science nor am I an expert on tribal politics, as Ive never held a political position nor do I expect to anytime soon, if ever. However, please keep these things in mind when youre listening to the political platforms of our upcoming candidates. #1- 80% of the entire NDN population live in urban areas. Of course this number would be around 50/50 or 60/40 for our Nation, So budget line-item- services specific to housing repairs, wood for elders, etc. leave out a lot of direct services to tribal members who do not live on the Nation. #2- the 10% decline in tribal elections has a lot to do with our elders dying and the lack of a younger generational vote. Baby boomers are new elders and the lack of a strong movement from the younger generations to guide the importance of voting. ELDERS VOTE, theyll reach out to get a ride to vote. #3- no matter what you personally think about an individual ask yourself if you would trust them with your children. #4- everyone has their own agenda but not a plan of action. A good plan should always include an equity plan. Our Nation doesnt have one and none of our candidates have had one since I started to pay attention. This means we need to have leaders who understand budgets and budget processes. #5- we treat our tribal leaders like shit. We bad mouth them, we criticize them and a lot of that has to do with the fact that tribal politicians lose focus on their promises and political platforms. NDNs dont forget, so while youre getting ready to jump behind a candidate, keep all of these things in mind. My thoughts respectfully.
Posted on: Fri, 28 Mar 2014 20:47:11 +0000