Smaller version of FSU homecoming Football underway at Indian Day for Tribe delayed until spring Moore Haven High v COMMUNITY v 6A EDUCATION 1B SPORTS v 5B

www.seminoletribune.org Free Volume XLIV • Number 9 September 30, 2020 Hard Rock Seminole Tribe key partner on fans get ‘immense’ Fort King project sneak peek Big plans for National century that involve the U.S. government are often lopsided and paint Seminoles in an Historic Landmark in Ocala unflattering light. of proposed But a project moving forward at Fort BY DAMON SCOTT King in northeast Ocala is looking to change Staff Reporter those narratives and deliver something Virginia accurate. The 42-acre site, which is also a National Many historians have presented an Historic Landmark, is set to undergo a $14.7 project inaccurate version of Seminole history – million transformation after a 15-year master sometimes intentionally, sometimes not. plan was recently approved by the city of BY DAMON SCOTT That is, if there was an effort to tell the Ocala and Marion County. Staff Reporter history in the first place. It’s not just the scope and dollar amount In addition, the histories of the 19th Hard Rock ventures are underway across the globe, even as the hospitality industry has faced new challenges during the Covid-19 pandemic. Hard Rock International unveiled one of its latest partnerships in mid-September with a public viewing of a 3D model for its proposed Bristol, Virginia, hotel and casino project that would mark the first such project in the state. The new Hard Rock hotel and casino would be located at the site of the former Courtesy Keifer Calkins Bristol Mall – located at 500 Gate City Seminoles, including Daniel Tommie, have participated in Seminole War reenactments at Fort King in Highway – if voters approve a local Ocala. The fort is scheduled to undergo a major development and reconstruction project. referendum on the Nov. 3 ballot. The Virginia General Assembly and that’s significant; it’s also that the Seminole immersive as well,” the 40-page master plan the Bristol City Council had previously Tribe has been engaged in the process from states. “[It] sets the course for interpreting authorized to give voters the decision on the start. the most accurate version of Seminole War approval of the project during this year’s The plan consists of two major parts: the history …” general election. development and construction of a museum Paul Backhouse, the senior director Bristol is the twin city of Bristol, and education center and the reconstruction of the Seminole Tribe’s Heritage and Tennessee – just across the state line. It has of the entire Fort King complex – including Environmental Resource Office, said the been nicknamed the “birthplace of country archaeological and archival research work. partners on the Fort King project have been music.” Courtesy Keifer Calkins Fort King will be home to an education center and museum, set to be completed in the next five years. “The end goal is to provide a park clear about their intentions. F See HARD ROCK on page 6A that is not just passive in its education but F See FORT KING on page 4A Tribal member Allen Colon earns Senators: Give tribes promotion to SPD lieutenant more access He’s also previously served watch program. When it turned out that he was the only applicant for the program, he to CARES Act the Tribe as sergeant, patrol was instead offered a job as a community service aide. That led to him attending and officer and community graduating from the Fort Myers Police funds academy in June 2007. He served as an service aide SPD patrol officer until 2016 when he was promoted to sergeant. BY DAMON SCOTT BY BEVERLY BIDNEY “I love being on the road,” Colon said. Staff Reporter Staff Reporter “You get to interact with the community and tourists, anyone and everyone who comes through the reservation. I like working with Even as some states continue to emerge people and helping the community. I want to from various Covid-19 restrictions, the BIG CYPRESS — Allen Colon’s be a person you can count on.” ongoing hit to the service, tourism and ascension through the ranks of the Seminole Auer saw something unique about hospitality industries remains profound. Police Department continued Aug. 17 Colon. He is one of only a handful of tribal Those impacts are especially felt among when he earned a promotion to the rank of members who have been sworn SPD officers tribal enterprises within Indian Country – lieutenant. over the years. many of which rely heavily on those sectors The Seminole Tribal member, whose “At a certain point in his career, I saw to fund government operations, programs aspirations to be a police officer extend back he started to take an interest in preserving and services. to his teen years, has excelled in a variety of the Tribe,” Auer said. “He got to see from an Because the situation is still a bleak roles during his nearly 15 years of service officer’s standpoint some of the issues that one, a bipartisan group of lawmakers in with SPD. All along the way – first as a affect the Tribe. By his questions, he was Washington, D.C., has issued a call for an community service aide, then as a patrol taking more responsibility. He is committed increase in access for tribal governments officer and more recently as a sergeant – he’s to the betterment of the Tribe.” to two specific lending programs that were earned respect. As a sergeant, Colon interacted with the created under the CARES Act. “He identifies with Tribal members and community and supervised officers. The Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and police officers,” Seminole Police Chief John “I liked taking care of them as much as Economic Security (CARES) Act, is a $2.2 Auer said. “It’s rare that people understand taking care of the public,” he said. “Being a trillion economic stimulus bill that was both. He never loses that insight.” lieutenant is completely different than being passed in March. A second stimulus bill has As a Seminole, Colon, 53, has a unique a sergeant; there is more responsibility and been stalled in Congress for months. perspective on his chosen profession. administrative work.” The group of lawmakers calling for “I have a better understanding of the Colon spent about 12 weeks at SPD the greater lending access for tribes consist community,” he said. “It isn’t the easiest headquarters in a mentoring program, of four senators: Tom Udall, D-NM, vice job being a Tribal member because you are where he worked with William Latchford, chairman of the Senate Committee on Indian looking at both sides. Sometimes that makes executive director of public safety, Auer and Affairs; John Hoeven, R-ND, chairman of it difficult, but we get through it. Knowing Kevin Tyrie, assistant chief of police. While the Senate Committee on Indian Affairs; the language and growing up in the culture there, Colon learned how every department Sherrod Brown, D-Ohio, ranking member of is a good tool to have.” within SPD works and learned there was a the Senate Committee on Banking, Housing As a lieutenant, Colon is the reservation lot more he didn’t know. and Urban Affairs; and Mike Crapo, R-Idaho, commander for Big Cypress. His new “I know I have a lot to learn,” he said. chairman of the Senate Committee on responsibilities include daily police “But I will do my best and take care of Banking, Housing and Urban Affairs. operations, initial response deployment, whatever comes up. The buck stops here in The senators sent a letter Sept. 16 to follow ups, complaints, education, making my office. It’s a lot of responsibility andI Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin and sure staff is equipped and trained, maintain won’t take it lightly.” the chairman of the Federal Reserve Board, discipline and interact with the community. Police officers are among the first Jerome Powell, encouraging them to take He is one of five reservation commanders; responders who are on the front lines of action on behalf of tribes. the others are in Brighton, Hollywood, the pandemic. Auer saw how concerned Courtesy photo “Tribes and tribally-owned businesses Immokalee and Tampa. from across Indian Country have been Colon was for his officers and their possible Allen Colon has been promoted to lieutenant at the Seminole Police Department. A self-described “old school” person, exposure to Covid-19. severely impacted by the economic strains Colon has worked since his youth and has “He was looking out for his officers,” brought on by the Covid-19 pandemic,” earned everything he has. As a way to give Auer said. “Public safety is never convenient “He has a thirst for information that perspective, he is invaluable to the Tribe. the letter reads. “These businesses, from back to the Tribe, he decided to pursue a and he understands that.” most people don’t have,” Auer said. “He did He was a logical and excellent choice and a hotels, conference centers, restaurants, and career in law enforcement with SPD. Auer believes the decision to promote all the right things and asked all the right perfect fit for the community.” entertainment venues to gas stations and In 2006, Colon saw his opportunity and Colon was the right one as he watched him questions. Because of his unique perspective shopping malls, are some of the biggest planned to join the SPD’s neighborhood rise to the top. and the ability to see the job from that employers and income generators for tribal and nearby non-tribal communities.”

F See CARES ACT on page 3A

Visit the Tribune’s website for news throughout INSIDE: Editorial...... 2A Health...... 9A Sports...... 5B. Community...... 3A Education...... 1B the month at seminoletribune.org 2A • The Seminole Tribune • September 30, 2020 Editorial During this time of change, it’s essential Natives have a voice

on the back burner by the U.S. government • Tiger Morales and the main stream media. Indigenous people are reduced to a war bonnet, a piece of clothing or jewelry, or a trendy piece of y name is Tiger Morales. I am a art work for someone’s living room. We Msoon-to-be a 17-year-old Tribal have no representation. We are too often member. My father and I created a large depicted as addicts of difference vices. mural that Indigenous Lives Matter. That The over 1,000 treaties made with the U.S fact seems to be forgotten among the general government are too ignored or forgotten, or U.S. population. have been broken. Let me make myself clear – All Lives In this time of change and hopeful Matter: Black lives, Asian lives, LGBTQ+ growth, it is essential for us to have a voice lives matter. All minority lives do, but and have that voice be heard. In words of Indigenous people seem to be forgotten youth and innocence, we need to set aside even though we are the ones native to this our differences of what tribe we belong to, country. Our democracy, our way of life our class status and our traditions so we can – we’ve been generalized into the Plains come together as Indigenous people that Indian tribes like my father’s tribe. For years are sick and tired of not being heard. Not we have been fighting back against negative through violence or harming others, but stereotypes such as the drunken Indian, the peacefully and diplomatically. I hope that savage Indian and the drug addicts. We do our mural is seen as a catalyst for change not get positive press or portrayal, except and a step in the right direction so that our from our own people. words mean something and are heard. You don’t hear about the Natives striving to be doctors, lawyers or CEOs. Seminole Tribal member Tiger Morales, You only hear the negative. If a police son of John Morales and Jo-Lin Osceola, officer kills an Indigenous man or woman, recently earned his high school diploma at you hear they were a junkie or addict, or age 16. He attended Poplar High School in Courtesy photos they did not comply, if you hear anything Montana. Tiger Morales hopes a large mural he painted in his backyard in Poplar, Montana, which reads ‘Indigenous Lives Matter,’ helps spark change in several at all. Throughout this country’s history, areas, including how Native Americans are perceived. Indigenous peoples’ problems have been put We can all win with a casino in Bristol

Bristol, Va., has been in financial of The Falls. But the project faced setbacks “Hard Rock will operate the hotel and People are going to come here and stay and • Kingsport (Tenn.) Times difficulty for years. It opened a new landfill in including a major retailer closing its doors. casino,” said United Company President and play and participate in many attractions as News Editorial Board an abandoned rock quarry, but the limestone Then came Steve Johnson, and we all know Chief Operating Officer Martin Kent. He well.” walls were porous, and to prevent dangerous that story. serves on a “Vote Yes for Bristol” referendum Projections have the casino project chemicals from seeping out, the city had to However, two Virginia businessmen, committee along with McGlothlin, chairman feeding Bristol, Va., up to $20 million in esidents of the Virginia side of buy a new lining roughly every two years, Jim McGlothlin and Clyde Stacy, began and CEO of United, and Stacy, president of new revenue annually, taking the city off the Bristol will have an opportunity which eventually led to some $30 million in a movement to bring casino gambling Par Ventures. state’s distressed community list. More than in November to approve what debt. At the same time, the city’s tax base to the city, partnering with Hard Rock “There will be connectivity with their that, it could attract more than four million R eroded as the coal industry collapsed and a International, owned by the Seminole other resorts here in the U.S. and abroad, tourists annually. could be the community’s saving grace and the most significant development in major employer moved to Mexico. Tribe in Florida. The Pinnacle was a $200 so we will have truly international reach,” It’s up to Bristol voters to approve the this region’s history, offering more jobs The city then borrowed more than $50 million project that created 2,000 jobs. The Kent pointed out. “Bristol will be given the referendum, but the entire Appalachian than were initially created by the Pinnacle million to build a retail development along proposed casino resort at the vacant Bristol opportunity to draw from a large pool of Highlands will benefit from the project, development on the Tennessee side. Interstate 81 at Exit 5, banking on its future Mall is billed as a $300 million project that highly sought-after performers. ... We expect should it come to pass. That’s the kind of financial success to pay for the construction will create more than 3,000 jobs. restaurants and a shopping experience. win we can all support. Native Americans still overlooked in debates

later before the arrival of the first ships of own cultural ways that were once strong Wounds are not healed in changing a then my people’s collective memory is • Dawn Custalow carrying enslaved Africans that docked in during the Powhatan and Pocahontas era. In storyline. The only narrative open to creating blotted out forever. With all due respect, no Point Comfort. How then is it that The 1619 fact, Eastern Native Americans’ history has is the one that is in the present. matter how painful it was for the Africans Project aims to reframe history with claims served as a harbinger of what was to come To propose that 1619 was the beginning who came in 1619 and for their descendants that the American nation began in 1619? for our Western tribal brothers and sisters in of this nation denies the recognition of today, history itself cannot be changed to he 1619 Project is gaining more Virginia Indians told stories of settlers the loss of their lands and culture some 200 the Powhatans and their present-day accommodate another narrative. traction in the media since its who would not have survived without their years later. descendants who continue to live on and No group, whether cultural, historical unveiling last year in the New help during the long brutal winter of 1609-10. Yet, in the midst of the loss of a lifestyle outside of the Mattaponi and Pamunkey or political should be granted a pen to T The natives, including the powerful family of the Native Americans in Virginia, my Indian reservations today. How can any reframe history. Reframing does not erase York Times magazine. Its premise, “to reframe American history by regarding 1619 confederation of Powhatan and Pocahontas, people endured well through injustices. My group of people reframe another’s history the wounds that ultimately must be dealt as our nation’s birth year.” The question is taught the colonists how to plant food and father was refused entrance as a student in when the descendants of the original people with. The telling of true historical facts helps “What would it mean not to seek a ‘new’ even traded with them during the initial the white high school near our reservation. are still alive and can testify to the validity us all pass down a legacy to our children history for our country but to acknowledge years of their relationship. The colonists However, he was also refused at the local of their history? As Virginia and American that history is theirs to make, but never to the already existing history pre-1619?” survived and founded Virginia democracy Black high school. He and his brother would Indians, we honor our history. It is sacred recreate — no matter how appealing and Why is there talk of reframing history with the original governmental template still board a train bound to Indian territory in — it cannot be changed. If we attempt to desired the story might be. for this country? If anyone has the right to do as the foundation of the Virginia House of Oklahoma to finish out their education. change history, then identity, memories so it would be the Native Americans of the Delegates today. Perseverance prevailed and they both went and interpreting our present events become Dawn Custalow, an English language East Coast of Virginia. The formal beginning Obviously, there was history in Virginia on to university. clouded, if not obsolete. learner teacher who lives in Roanoke, of the unborn United States occurred before the arrival of the ships at Point U.S. history shows clearly that two Native Americans want to see our Virginia, is a tribal member of the Mattaponi with the establishing of the first colony, Comfort. I know this history because it is people groups were subjugated at the history preserved, not altered, as it already Tribe whose reservation is located in West Jamestown, in 1607. This area was the home my history as well. I am a direct descendant beginning of this nation’s history and this has been over the 400 plus years from the Point. This opinion article appears on the of the Algonquian Native Americans of the of Pocahontas, a Mattaponi Indian. My tribe, subjugating was a grave wounding. But first European settlers’ landing. If the idea Virginia-Pilot’s website pilotonline.com. Powhatan confederacy. It would be 12 years through its oral traditions, knows the demise wounds cannot be used to reframe history. that U.S. history began in 1619 is accepted, Finding solutions to bring connectivity to Alaska, Indian Country

important layer of meaning today: lags 25 percent behind urban areas and an broadband deployment. treaty rights and live up to the federal trust • Tara Katuk Sweeney broadband. average of five points behind non-Tribal The Federal Communications responsibility. We seek to develop initiatives Broadband internet now serves as a rural areas. Commission Chairman Ajit Pai, NTIA informed and guided by tribal leadership and vital pillar of social infrastructure; quality The Trump Administration has worked leadership and other federal partners have invite private sector participation to amplify broadband is necessary for education, to carve out a long-term broadband policy opened their doors to Indian Affairs for fresh ideas and highlight new sources of s an Inupiaq, I grew up north health, commerce, and cultural retention and focus, including accessible broadband collaborative problem-solving. capital. Closing the broadband gap in Indian of the Arctic Circle in Alaska, revitalization. The COVID-19 pandemic has for Bureau of Indian Education students. Indian Affairs recently offered Country requires collaboration from and home to some of the most A demonstrated the critical need for accessible Recently, Indian Affairs installed broadband several tribes technical assistance on their between government and industry. remote communities in the United States. and reliable broadband connectivity, on 25 BIE buses to promote learning and applications to the FCC Tribal Priority Arctic living requires resourcefulness, especially for American Indian and Alaska help with homework on bus rides that can be Window for the 2.5 GHz spectrum, which respect for nature, and, most importantly, Native tribes. hours-long for many students. allows tribes to bid on available 2.5 GHz strong connections to community members. Native people in Alaska and across Indian Affairs also awarded the first spectrum. At the request of the tribes, Indian F See CONNECTIVITY on page 6B You can’t make it on your own, and like all Indian Country face significant challenges National Tribal Broadband Grant to 25 Affairs successfully advocated for FCC to tribal communities, social connectivity and with accessibility to broadband when tribes in August 2020. This grant facilitates extend the priority window deadline by 30 kinship are critical to survival. compared to non-tribal populations. Overall, the funding of feasibility studies for tribes days to Sept. 2. Connectivity has taken on a new, broadband deployment across tribal areas to determine the best path forward for Indian Affairs strives to honor tribal

The Seminole Tribune The following deadlines apply to all Advertising: Publisher: The Seminole Tribe of Florida Contributors: Carlos Fuentes is a member of the submissions to The Seminole Tribune: Advertising rates along with sizes and other Native American Journalists Association. information may be downloaded online at: Phone: 954-985-5700 © 2020 Seminole Tribe of Florida Issue: Oct. 30, 2020 http://SeminoleTribune.org/Advertise Letters/emails to the editor must be signed Deadline: Oct. 14, 2020 Senior Editor: Kevin Johnson, ext. 10715 and may be edited for publication. Postmaster: [email protected] Issue: Nov. 30, 2020 Please send address changes to: Subscription rate is $35 per year by mail. Deadline: Nov. 11, 2020 The Seminole Tribune Staff Reporter: Beverly Bidney, ext. 16466 Make checks payable to: 3560 N. State Road 7 [email protected] The Seminole Tribune Issue: Dec. 31, 2020 Hollywood, FL 33021 6365 Taft Street Deadline: Dec. 16, 2020 Staff Reporter: Damon Scott, ext. 10704 Hollywood, FL 33024 [email protected] Phone: 954-985-5700 Fax: 954-965-2937 Advertising: Donna Mason, ext. 10733 [email protected] 3A • The Seminole Tribune • September 30, 2020 Community A Seminole Indian 4-H perseveres through the pandemic

are doing what we should do; be a positive BY BEVERLY BIDNEY youth development organization.” Staff Reporter Although the club had to adjust to the stay safe at home order, Stam is hopeful things will return to normal by the end of The Covid-19 pandemic has affected the year. If not, they will create a virtual 4-H almost every facet of life, and the Seminole experience. The club will comply with the Indian 4-H program is no exception. safer at home edict as long as it is in effect. The 2020-21 4-H year has begun and it “We are hearing great things about the is like no other before it. The kids will tend steers and heifers,” Stam said. “We have to their livestock face-to-face, but everything some first year kids who are having a good else will likely be done virtually online. deal of success and having fun.” With the “Safer at Home” order in place New programs for this year are a slew until further notice, the 4-H kids will not of University of Florida 4-H virtual clubs attend meetings in person. Instead they will including dairy, horses, poultry, swine, teen gather in front of their computers, tablets life and a young leaders clubs. or cell phone screens to connect with their “The teen life is a good curriculum peers and 4-H leaders. for 13 to 18 year olds; it teaches ‘adulting’ Even with the pandemic in full force, 47 skills,” Stam said. “The young leaders club 4-H’ers joined the cattle program, including will focus on what type of leader they want 10 in the three-year heifer program for the to become and how they can make a positive first time. Kids received their animals during change throughout their lifetime. It will calf shipping in July. advance their leadership and communication “We are very pleased with the steer and skills.” heifer numbers,” said Aaron Stam, Florida Stam would also like to recruit Tribal cooperative extension agent and 4-H leader. elders and cattle owners to speak to the kids “Having 10 first-year heifers means they in a virtual space. Ideally, he would like them will come back as second- and third-year to speak about the history of the Seminole kids. The heifer program trains for future cattle program. cattlemen and women.” “What makes our program unique is Stam said 4-H plans to have an in- that we are tied directly back to the cattle person show and sale on March 26 and 27, program, which is part of Seminole culture,” 2021, but they are developing a contingency Stam said. “More kids need to understand plan in case it needs to be held online. this; we would like to start incorporating The 4-H staff has been busy making more of that into the program. If there is a sure the facilities in Big Cypress, Brighton silver lining in any of this, it’s being able to and Hollywood are ready to go. Kids will get explore some of these things.” hogs in late November or early December. Volunteers are an important part of 4-H The goal is to have 100 kids in the hog and many have offered to help when they program. can, but 4-H is being very cautious about it To attract kids’ interest, 4-H has been during the pandemic. communicating on Facebook, emails and “We have a great group of volunteers texts. The results have been positive so far. Beverly Bidney who are chomping at the bit to go as soon as 4-H’ers participate in the Seminole Indian 4-H show and sale in March 2019 at the Junior Cypress Rodeo Arena in Big Cypress. “We talk about the values of the program we get the green light,” Stam said. and have 4-H alumni help,” Stam said. “We Nearly $1M awarded to Seminole Tribe from HUD BY KEVIN JOHNSON funding includes $900,000 to the Seminole go a long way to help Native Americans the Choctaw Nation in Oklahoma. including water wells and water lines; Senior Editor Tribe of Florida. persevere during this unprecedented time,” The $100 million is provided through • Purchase and renovation of an old HUD Secretary Ben Carson made said R. Hunter Kurtz, assistant secretary for the CARES Act and earmarked to support clinic facility to facilitate access to testing, Native American tribes have been the announcement Aug. 31. According to Public and Indian Housing. several projects on tribal lands across the diagnosis, and treatment of Tribal members; awarded $100 million as part of the U.S. HUD, the funding “will be used to help The largest amount of funds for $3 U.S. including: and Housing and Urban Development (HUD) tribes prevent, prepare for, and respond to million each are for the Cook Inlet Tribal • Construction of new rental housing • The provision of emergency Indian Community Development Block COVID-19.” Council in Alaska, the White Mountain to address overcrowding and homelessness; food supplies to geographically isolated Grant Imminent Threat Program. The “This $100 million investment will Apache Housing Authority in Arizona and • Construction of water infrastructure, communities. Key diabetes program still searches for stable funding

BY DAMON SCOTT or anticipating reductions in the and result in cuts to essential Staff Reporter availability of services. public health services for medically On Sept. 11, the NIHB sent underserved patients; cuts to type- a letter with 17 signatories to the 2 diabetes prevention, treatment, The clock is ticking once again leaders of Congress urging a fully and management services; delays toward the expiration of funding for funded, five-year extension of the in research to treat, prevent, and the Special Diabetes Program for program – which encompasses a ultimately find cures for type- Indians, or SDPI. variety of other health services for 1 diabetes; setbacks to provider The latest in a string of short Indian Country, including SDP recruitment and retention in high term funding appropriations expires – the Special Diabetes Program – need areas; and even the closing Dec. 11. which generally focuses on type-1 of residency programs training SDPI serves more than 300 diabetes. the next generation of health care Tribal and urban Indian communities “In order to prevent additional professionals. across the country, including the interruptions in patient access The NIHB said in its letter that Seminole Tribe of Florida. Congress to vital public health services, without the stability and security of created it in 1997 in response to a interruptions in medical research, a long-term reauthorization, many diabetes epidemic among American and to mitigate additional threats Community Health Centers (CHCs) Indians and Alaska Natives. The to medical training programs and would not have the resources to program provides funds for diabetes health care provider placements accommodate growing populations. treatment and prevention to IHS, during a national pandemic, it is “We remind you that millions of Tribal, and Urban Indian health essential that Congress approve a Americans rely on these public health programs across the U.S. five-year reauthorization of these programs to receive their health care Officials say the continued key programs and consider proposed services, diabetes services, medical short-term extensions combined increases requested during the 116th trainings, and potential cures,” the with the Covid-19 pandemic has Congress,” the NIHB letter reads. letter said. “Each of these programs severely complicated matters. is integral to our national Covid-19 The National Indian Health Continued strain response efforts and for protecting Board estimates that nearly 1 in 5 the public health and safety of our SDPI programs have experienced In just over 12 month’s time, the communities.” employee furloughs since March – SDPI has gone through five short- Further, the letter stressed that the majority of those directly linked term extensions – some lasting only Congress has supported SDPI and to the economic impacts of the a few weeks. related programs in a bipartisan pandemic. The most recent authorization manner for many years. In addition, NIHB estimates was Sept. 21 – part of a short-term NIHB officials said it’s unclear that roughly 1 in 4 SDPI programs budget resolution in the House of if a long-term reauthorization can be have reported delaying essential Representatives to avoid a federal achieved before Dec. 11, and could purchases of medical equipment to government shutdown. hinge, in part, on the outcome of the treat and monitor diabetes due to Stakeholders say the short term November election. funding uncertainty, and nearly half extensions put undue strains on of all programs are experiencing long-term budgeting and planning

authority to address two specific of Treasury for its previous F CARES ACT programs were created under their consideration of the particular From page 1A authority – the Main Street Lending lending challenges Tribes face. Program (MSLP) for corporations “[But] dßue to the unique The letter stressed that unlike and the Municipal Liquidity Facility nature of tribal governments and other governments, tribes do not (MLF) for governments. tribal enterprise debts, tribes and have traditional tax bases that Both programs provide relief by their businesses are unable to fully are used to generate government facilitating loans. It’s access to these utilize the MSLP and the MLF. revenue. two programs that the lawmakers Accordingly, we encourage you to “Instead, tribes rely on their want to see expanded for tribes. provide tribes and tribally-owned businesses to generate revenue for “Further, by expressly including businesses greater access to the government operations and essential Indian Tribes in the definition of MSLP and MLF,” the senators services, such as health care, public ‘States,’ Congress gave Treasury concluded in the letter. safety and social services for their broad authority to account for the As of press time, there had not communities,” the senators wrote. unique financing needs of tribal been an official response to the letter The specific outreach to governments and their enterprises,” from Mnuchin or Powell. Mnuchin and Powell is due to a the letter reads. For more information, go to provision in the CARES Act that In the letter, the bipartisan indian.senate.gov. gives the Department of the Treasury group of senators also expressed and the Federal Reserve Board the appreciation for the Department 4A • The Seminole Tribune • September 30, 2020 Seminole Casino and Hotel Immokalee welcomes back guests BY BEVERLY BIDNEY focus on managing guest compliance with property encouraging guests to follow the Staff Reporter the program including proper use of required “Safe + Sound” guidelines. masks or face coverings that meet CDC The EE-TO-LEET-KE Grill and guidelines, social distancing, crowd control Cappucino’s Coffee and Pastry Bar are IMMOKALEE — After being and remaining stationary while eating, open for dine in or take-out orders only. EE- shuttered for more than five months, the drinking or smoking. TO-LEET-KE Grill is open from 11 a.m. Seminole Casino and Hotel Immokalee “We have received a lot of compliments to 11 p.m. Cappucino’s is open 24 hours. finally welcomed its first few thousand from guests and employees that they feel Seating is limited to follow social distancing guests on Aug. 31. safe,” Jim Allen, CEO of Seminole Gaming requirements. Eating and drinking are not The casino and hotel closed on March 20 and Chairman of Hard Rock International, allowed on the casino floor. due to the coronavirus pandemic. Normally said in a video released to the media. “If it The hotel is open and taking reservations. open 24/7, the casino’s games remained looks like a hospital, that’s fine with me. “Safe + Sound” program guidelines silenced and hotel rooms empty until the Safety first. The business will grow and we include: reopening. know eventually, over time, we will have • Temperature checks for all guests Immokalee was the last of the Tribe’s people create some type of ability to cure or and team members prior to entry. Any guest Florida casinos to reopen. Like other restrict the spread of this disease. It’s more or team member with a temperature above Seminole casinos, Immokalee will operate about creating an environment where people CDC guidelines of 100.4 degrees Fahrenheit at 50% capacity and adhere to the “Safe + are safe today.” will not be allowed entry. Sound” program protocols. Safety measures are everywhere to be • A requirement that all guests wear More than 500 employees have returned seen in the casino, as are the employees who masks or cloth face coverings that meet to work. At the height of the tourist season, clean them often. Plexiglass barriers are in CDC guidelines, without exception. Masks and during normal capacity, more than 800 place between each seat, the players and the will be provided to guests as needed. work at the property. dealers at table games; one slot machine is • Alternating slot machines will be “Managers are monitoring business turned on for two that are turned off to give turned off to help ensure social distancing on levels and hiring needs and hope to bring customers a safe distance from each other; the casino floor. back more team members over the next few hand sanitizing stations are ubiquitous and • New Plexiglas barriers will divide weeks and months,” said Gary Bitner, the Seminole Gaming everyone gets a thermal temperature scan players at table games and customer service Card tables and other gaming areas are back in action after the Seminole Casino Hotel Immokalee Tribe’s spokesman. upon entry. Signs are posted throughout the areas. “Safe + Sound” specialists in the casino reopened Aug. 31. The venue is following the 'Safe & Sound' program guidelines.

F HARD ROCK From page 1A

The public viewing of the model, and several pieces of country music memorabilia, gave residents and Hard Rock aficionados an opportunity to see what a finished project would look like. In addition to the hotel and casino, the development would consist of seven restaurants, four bars, a 3,200-seat Hard Rock Live venue, a 20,000 capacity outdoor entertainment venue, a “country western nightlife experience” and a Hard Rock Cafe with a stage for local musicians. The resort would also feature other amenities that are familiar to Hard Rock fans, including a Rock Shop and retail store, Rock Spa and Body Rock fitness center and a convention and meeting space. HRI said memorabilia pieces at the site would include country music legends Johnny Cash, Loretta Lynn, Garth Brooks, Taylor Swift, Carrie Underwood, Buck Owens and Hank Williams. The Bristol project would also include an e-sports simulator – a form of multiplayer video game sports competition. HRI expects the project would attract more than four million visitors annually and be an economic driver for the city and the region. Using the formidable draw of the Hard Rock brand, officials said the draw for both residents and tourists would generate millions of dollars in new tax revenue for the city and create thousands of new jobs. Courtesy Hard Rock “This model is a symbol of our A 3D model of the proposed Hard Rock development in Bristol, Virginia, was recently unveiled. commitment to residents that Hard Rock is prepared to invest in Bristol and bring a world-class destination resort that will part of the community, history, people and model and country music memorabilia at the There are Hard Rock venues in more Guitar Hotel opened in 2019. make the community proud,” Sean Caffery, culture of Bristol.” site. than 70 countries. Its two most successful The Seminole Tribe of Florida is the senior vice president of casino and business HRI said there would be more dates Partners on the project with HRI include flagship properties are in Tampa, and in parent company of HRI. development for HRI, said in a statement. announced for the public to view the 3D the United Co. and Par Ventures. Hollywood, Florida – where the world’s first More is at hardrock.com. “Hard Rock is looking forward to being a

Osceola’s spark a reenactment. “The fact that the fort was ‘The Seminole story’ clear that the Seminole narrative should be F FORT KING rebuilt creates a more accurate reenactment spoken by the Seminole Tribe.” From page 1A Fort King was considered the most that allows us to tell the full story. We’re Keifer Calkins is one of the supervisors The approval of the master plan also important interior U.S. Army fort of its keeping a legacy going by coming up here at Fort King and a main author of the master serves as the green light to begin raising “They came down to [Big Cypress] time in the first half of the 19th century. It and doing our demonstrations. We can spread plan. He’s managed the Fort King National funds. early in the project and have continued to is unique among many other sites in Florida our message and let people know about us.” Historic Landmark for about five years. Calkins said there’s no exact timeline engage the Tribe in absolutely every facet and the U.S. because it not only represents Cypress is part of the Osceola Warrior “We worked very much as a team on for the groundbreaking of the 21,000-square- of what they are doing,” Backhouse said. “I the period associated with the Indian Legacy – created by Charlie Osceola – who the city side to make sure the goals are foot education center and museum, but both would honestly say Fort King is a model of Removal Act, but also the resistance to it. does demonstrations of traditional Seminole implemented and make sure we’re doing it are expected to be completed by 2025. He how to work collaboratively with the Tribe.” Led by Osceola, the Seminoles weaponry at reenactments. correctly,” he said. “The project is immense.” said he’s especially excited about that part of Backhouse said Quenton Cypress, ambushed a detachment of soldiers near Daniel Tommie, Pedro Zepeda, The site is also uncommon, Calkins said, the project because it’s where the Tribe will the Tribal Historic Preservation Office Tampa and Osceola killed Gen. Wiley Tucomah Robbins and Jason Melton are because it has avoided private development really come into the picture. community engagement manager, has been Thompson, the U.S. agent to the Indians. also Fort King regulars, among other Tribal over the years – unlike some sites in the “There’s a perception in some museum consulted on the project from the beginning The Seminoles then moved on to Ocala and members. Tampa area, for example, that have seen institutions and displays where they talk as well. waged another attack, burning down the fort. Tommie also built a small hunting intrusive commercial projects. about Indigenous communities as if they’ve The events are considered the spark that chickee on the site. The Fort King site is now insulated from passed,” he said. “It’s our goal to talk about ignited the Second Prior to 2017, there was virtually such activity thanks to the city and county’s history and also about how Seminoles are Seminole War. nothing on the site, save a 1940s-era house approval of the master plan. alive and well. We really want this place Reenactments that was used as a temporary visitor center. “It’s very rare to have a fort site that to be one that tells the Seminole story and at Fort King have A working blacksmith shop, historically hasn’t been developed in an urban interface educates people about the Seminole Tribe in been held since a recreated, is currently being built and should area,” Calkins said. “It is a rare opportunity general.” fort reconstruction be completed by the end of the year. to reconstruct the whole fort complex.” The plan is expected to soon receive a was completed in But it is the fort reconstruction that was It was Calkins and Bill Rodriguez, head final approval by the state. 2017. finished in 2017 that laid the groundwork for of Ocala’s parks division, who reached out “We want to make sure we are telling “We won’t the new projects in the master plan. to the Tribe early on about how the Seminole 100 percent of the story,” Rodriguez recently burn it down again,” story should be told. told the Ocala Gazette. “That’s been our Cypress told The “We don’t think it’s our place to tell full intention from the get-go and we won’t Seminole Tribune their story,” Calkins said. “We don’t want to waver from that.” earlier this year at control that narrative. In the plan, it’s very For more, go to fortkingocala.com.

Courtesy Keifer Calkins Courtesy Keifer Calkins Seminoles Jason Melton, left, and Quenton Cypress are part of the Osceola Participants in the reenactments line up against the fort’s wall. Warrior Legacy that has partcipated in reenactments at Fort King. 5A • The Seminole Tribune • September 30, 2020 Tribal climate conference addresses environmental issues in Indian Country

BY BEVERLY BIDNEY on people. in Peru were the first to cultivate potatoes; Staff Reporter “We can’t separate ecological by growing them at different altitudes, they understanding of climate change from created new varieties. the health of human beings,” said Warne, “Our seed savers are saving our associate dean, University of North Dakota communities,” she said. “We need to think More than 2,400 participants from 30 School of Medicine and Health Sciences. about how not to waste food.” countries and over 150 tribal nations sat “We have to be aware that climate change She said climate change will cause more in front of their screens to attend the first is having a big impact on people. This isn’t frequent power outages. biennial National Tribal and Indigenous different from traditional beliefs that the “We need to create more local energy Climate Conference, held online Sept. 14- earth is our mother. When we blend modern production, such as solar panels,” she said. 17. science and medicine with traditional beliefs, “We need to get more simple, smart and The virtual conference examined how we can make real strides.” efficient. We have to figure out howto climate change affects Indigenous peoples Warne talked about the long history reindustrialize the country using renewables, and emphasized the importance of traditional of genocide of people and animals and the like wind power in Indian Country.” knowledge and Native stewardship of the removal from their homelands. LaDuke has been growing fiber earth. “We are told our ancestors are still hemp for five years and said the country Paul Backhouse, senior director of the watching over us,” Warne said. “If we look had a choice in the 1920s to pursue a Courtesy image Seminole Tribe’s Heritage and Environment for the signs, we can see them. In this image hydrocarbon economy based on fossil fuel Winona LaDuke, co-founder of Honor the Earth, was the keynote speaker at the National Tribal and Resources Office, attended the conference of the map of Minnesota, look carefully at the or a carbohydrate economy based on hemp. Indigenous Climate Conference in September. with staff from the Tribal Historic eastern border; it is the image of a beautiful She said the country made the wrong choice; Preservation Office. Lakota chief looking directly at the Black small farmers are now growing hemp and The Local Environmental Observer (LEO) “It was a really timely conference given between the ancestral lands to a future that Hills, the heart of everything that is. There calling it the new green revolution. is an online platform that connects people is now sustainable. Their leadership used the Tribe is working on our climate plan and is a deeper knowledge and understanding “Look to our ancestors, hold our heads about climate change in the state. recognizes this is a huge threat,” Backhouse it as a toolkit for other tribes undergoing among Native people.” up and pray hard,” LaDuke said. “We have Anyone in Alaska can join the network environmental pressures.” said. “It was a great conversation and we got He showed four maps of forests across the opportunity to take a new path, to make and report changes they see in their own insights from across the world.” Culture can be a powerful weapon in the country from 1620, 1850, 1926 and 1990. a regenerative and restorative economy. The communities. LEO reviews the data to try to communications and powerful statements The difference across the years was striking. next economy isn’t about competition, it’s determine trends going forward. keep Native American messages front and Opening session When huge swaths of forests are destroyed, about cooperation.” “Our goal is to raise awareness about center. Van Leuven showed a video of an it has an impact on the climate. climate change and develop specific All conference presenters and panelists Alaskan Native woman. “The health of the earth impacts us all,” Air, health and well-being adaptation strategies,” said Erica Lujan, LEO “In Alaska, 100 years ago we were came from different locations around the Warne said. “The buffalo are back; what coordinator. “Animal mortality was a big globe. Ann Marie Chischilly (Diné Nation), completely nomadic community. We do they teach us? The strongest bulls stand The climate has always been changing trend in 2019; seabirds, ice stranded seals, harvested whales, fish, birds and were there executive director, Institute for Tribal and face the coming storm to protect those and over the last 12,000 years temperatures krill and salmon kills have a huge implication Environmental Professionals, welcomed when they were. We had to keep land clean behind them. We have to be those strong have been both warmer and cooler. But for for food security in communities.” for them or they wouldn’t want to come attendees to the opening plenary session bulls and face each challenge head on. Our the last 150 years they have been getting When LEO gets information, they while standing outdoors in the foothills back. We love to eat what they gave us and future generations are depending on us.” warmer more quickly, according to Maureen pass it along to the Alaska Department of had much gratitude for them when they of the San Francisco peaks on the Navajo Keynote speaker Winona LaDuke, McCarthy, research professor, Desert Fish and Game, the National Oceanic and reservation in Arizona. came. This is our land where we get our Anishinaabekwe (Ojibwe) and co-founder Research Institute at the University of Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) and whale and fish,” she said. “I wanted us to come together even of Honor the Earth, said crises create Nevada, Reno. other agencies. The LEO network is meant during the pandemic to give hope, encourage As a climate justice organizer, Ruth opportunities. Drought is tied to climate and to be the hub of a wheel, information they Miller advocates for the protection of Native each other and share our stories,” Chischilly “What a time we are in, maybe when temperatures; there have been extensive get from local observers provide information said. “We are in the time of the long walk. The environments and food systems. our descendants come they will say it was droughts during the last 1,000 years, but and guidance to inform the public. LEO “We know the core of climate justice Navajo people were taken from their lands the time of the bat,” LaDuke said. “Little recent droughts are extreme. McCarthy currently has 1,300 observation posts and kept away for years. They struggled to work is bringing our view to industry to creatures can make a huge difference in our believes Native wisdom and western science throughout Alaska. create a balance in the world,” said Miller, stay alive so I could stand here. It’s through lives, causing more diseases to come from should be integrated to understand how Each community has its own page on that resilience that they came back and built who lives and works in Alaska. “Alaska is at them to the world. My advice is to help humanity fits into the natural world. the LEO website. Residents' posts document the front line of climate change. Corporations a new life. Resilience in in our DNA.” protect our biodiversity.” “In March 2020 the Covid pandemic hit the changes in real time. Put together over a Ella Ruth Ahrens (Diné Nation) spoke increase toxins and cancers in our people, She believes now is the time for the world, but hit Indian Country exceedingly few years, a larger picture of climate change food systems, caribou and salmon. Erosion, from the bottom of her 9-year-old heart. Indigenous nations to rebuild their food and hard,” McCarthy said during a session that emerges. “Mother Earth is one of a kind and we permafrost melt and melting sea ice are energy resources to protect the biodiversity explored intersection between air, health and “LEO shows how we can work making our environment uninhabitable. We need to take care of it,” said the S.T.A.R. of the earth. well-being as it relates to climate change. together,” Lujan said. School student, from Flagstaff, Arizona. as a global community have degraded our “Biodiversity is what you want in a time “Indigenous people are resilient, but the environment.” “Actions have consequences and we can’t of climate crisis,” LaDuke said. “When you combination of the two has put a stress in Climate justice afford that. We need your help.” Miller sees some clear battlegrounds for have many different sources, you keep your the system.” climate justice. Dr. Donald Warne (Oglala Lakota seeds strong.” McCarthy and a group researching Indigenous climate refugees exist Nation) comes from a family of traditional “Culture informs and directs our LaDuke noted three things she is focused Native waters on arid lands identified a already in Alaska and Louisiana. The Biloxi- work, we need to think about how we can healers and medicine men and understands on to meet the biodiversity goal: food, energy few urgent issues which included economic Chitimacha-Choctaw Tribe in southern how the health of the earth has a direct effect incorporate marginalized indigenous views,” and hemp. She talked about how the Incas relief for farmers with irrigation payments Louisiana saw 98% of their ancestral lands she said. “The western viewpoint of science due; essential needs such as food, wood to vanish due to rising sea levels and coastal is just data, with less value in storytelling heat homes, water and hay for livestock; erosion and are forced to relocate. and history. Indigenous people who live educational support for students who don’t Nancy Van Leuven, assistant professor, closely to the land witness science firsthand; have electricity, computers or internet access California State University, Fresno discussed we need to look to them for leadership in making virtual school an impossibility. how native versus mainstream media voices climate policies.” They got the USDA to bring food and can define an issue. In the case of the Who gets to tell the story of climate supplies to rural communities, including Louisiana tribe, she said the mainstream change and justice is critical to Miller’s wood, hay and personal protection equipment media framed it as a sad story. work. to Hopi and Navajo communities. “The story shifted because of the “We are facing concurrent emergencies tribal community’s messaging,” Van F See CLIMATE on page 9A of climate and Covid,” McCarthy said. Leuven said. “They see it as a living bridge “Climate issues have been compounded by Covid. Arid lands’ major issue is drought, which has gotten worse since July and the projections are not good.” Wildfires are another serious result of climate change. Native communities have knowledge about wildfire management. McCarthy said not using that knowledge for the last 100 years was a mistake. She hopes we use it for the next 100. One positive thing coming from these times is the increase of food sovereignty programs on reservations. McCarthy said the impact of Covid shutdowns and limited access to food supplies, compelled some tribes to enhance and build their food sovereignty programs. With the help of the CARES Act funding, these programs have been expanded substantially. Alaska is on the front line of climate Courtesy image change; as temperatures rise sea ice Ann Marie Chischill, executive director of the Institute for Tribal Environmental Professionals, disappears, storms are stronger and more Courtesy image frequent causing substantial coastal erosion. provided welcoming remarks to the attendees of the conference, which was held virtually. Ella Ahrens, of Flagstaff, Ariz., was a guest youth speaker at the conference.

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Contact your local Indian health care provider for more information, visit Healthcare.gov, or call 1–800–318–2596. 6A • The Seminole Tribune • September 30, 2020 Brighton Reservation celebrates Indian Day

STAFF REPORT

Indian Day for the Seminole Tribe in 2020 was far from what usually takes place. Due to the Covid-19 pandemic, one of the Tribe’s biggest annual holiday celebrations was limited. There were no large gatherings, no amusement rides, no bands, no vendors and no games as safety precautions prevailed. Reservations’ offerings were vastly reduced. Some held drive thru meal distributions and received arts and crafts entrees in dropoffs. Hollywood’s arts and crafts contest included guest judges online. A socially-distant fishing tournament Sept. 26 was among the highlights to Brighton’s celebration as residents tried to reel in big ones at Tucker Ridge and in canals. The program We Do Recover assisted in the distrubution of meals.

Brighton Council Office Jenny and Eddie Shore enjoy their day and their catch in the Brighton Indian Day Fishing Tournament on Sept. 26.

Brighton Council Office An impressive catch at the tournament. Brighton Council Office Chayton “Chik” Billie, 14, shows what he reeled in during the Indian Day fishing tournament.

Brighton Council Office At right and below, amid the rain, We Do Recover helped Brighton Council & Chairman’s office staff hand out meals in a drive thru line. Brighton Council handed out shirts, tickets for raffles, and meals to the Brighton community. The Chairman’s Office handed out items and tickets for raffles.

Brighton Council Office Enjoying a day of fishing at the tournament. 7A • The Seminole Tribune • September 30, 2020 Native voters deserve to have their voices heard Miss Indian World emphasizes

BY DONNA M. OWENS step up to help with pressing contemporary Native advocates have called on importance of Census needs, such as “a full count of Native people” Congress to address the voting issue. in the 2020 Census participation and voting. In March 2019, Senator Tom Udall (D- STAFF REPORT time provides enough support to uplift our When Deb Haaland and Sharice Davids “The United States must… protect the NM) and Rep. Ben Ray Lujan (D-NM) made history in 2018 as the first Native communities and future generations for right of Native people to participate in the reintroduced the Native American Voting years to come!,” she posted on Facebook in American women ever elected to Congress, American political process against voter Rights Act. Both Haaland and Davids are Having the title of Miss Indian World it symbolized the collective journey of September. suppression — suppression tactics that are also among dozens of co-sponsors. means Cheyenne Kippenberger carries some Kippenberger and other royalty from Indigenous people who’ve lived on these meant to marginalize their voice—and it Among the bills’ provisions are clout across Indian Country. The former lands for millennia. Rep. Haaland represents throughout Indian Country have been must include tribal governments as equal expanding the types of facilities that can Miss Florida Seminole, from the Hollywood posting photos of themselves holding signs New Mexico and is an enrolled citizen of the players in the administration of elections be used as voter registration agencies, Reservation, has been helping lead an online Pueblo of Laguna. Davids, a member of the such as “Indian Country Counts” and “Be across this country,” she said. “This is what increasing polling site accessibility, movement that stresses the importance of Counted.” Ho-Chunk Nation in Wisconsin, represents we demand — and this is what we deserve. requiring approval for actions like moving being counted in Indian Country for the Kansas. Now the congresswomen are Representation compiled in Census We will settle for nothing less, and we will a polling place, and validating certain tribal 2020 Census. data helps determine federal funding for raising their voices in tandem with fellow exercise our rapidly growing political power identification for voting or registering. “I beg you to please complete the 2020 lawmakers, advocates, and community programs and grants. Questionnaires can and voice in Washington and at the ballot So far, the legislation hasn’t moved Census. This 9 question questionnaire will be completed online, by phone or mail. For leaders to urge Indian Country to participate box against any and all who fail to meet this past the committee stage on Capitol Hill. be used to determine funding, political in the November general election. more information, go to 2020census.gov or standard.” Still, Udall and Haaland aren’t giving up. representation and data for our community call (844) 330-2020. “Voting is sacred,” said Rep. Haaland Voting rights are the subject of a new The legislators recently joined Ahtza Dawn for the next 10 years. 10 minutes of your during a televised speech at the Democratic report titled “Obstacles at Every Turn: Chavez, executive director of the Native National Convention in August. Davids, Barriers to Political Participation Faced by American Voters Alliance Education Project, appearing on a video call with fellow Native American Voters,” released by the and Tiffany Muller of Let America Vote for convention vice chairs, termed the 2020 Native American Rights Fund and the Native a virtual panel on protecting voting rights in presidential race “the most consequential American Voting Rights Coalition. Based on tribal communities. election of our lifetimes.” nine public hearings over two years and input “It’s all of our duty to exercise our tribal Indeed, much is at stake for the nearly 6 from dozens of tribes across the country, right that our elders fought for and that our million people — about 2% of the population the report highlights the barriers American ancestors fought hard to give us, in a new — who identify as American Indian or Indian and Alaska Native communities face era,” says Chavez, a member of the Diné Alaska Natives, per the Census Bureau’s in the voting process, from registration to Nation. “My grandfather stood in front of 2018 American Community Survey. The casting votes to ensuring votes are counted. the tribal court for the right to vote.” Bureau of Indian Affairs lists 574 federally “The first people on the land should To prevent disenfranchisement, the recognized American Indian tribes and not be the last to vote,” said Jacqueline De report recommends that secretaries of state Alaska Native villages. Additionally, dozens León, a staff attorney at the Native American and state and local election officials work of state-recognized tribes exist across the Rights Fund and co-author of the report. with tribal governments to increase voting country. Each has its own culture, traditions, “Native American voters have the potential and registration locations on Indian lands. language, music, and ceremonies, passed to decide elections.” It also suggests the creation of Native down through generations by elders. The examination of voting comes American task forces to oversee policies For tribal nations that have long been as many states nationwide reconsider that have caused a maze of obstructions that recognized by the federal government as operations for the 2020 elections and adapt voters face, some of which are exacerbated sovereign, its members are citizens of three to changes wrought by the coronavirus by the pandemic. groups: their own tribe, the state where they pandemic. The Native vote is critical in In August, the Congressional Native reside, and the United States. congressional districts and states such as American Caucus, co-chaired by Haaland Fawn Sharp, president of the National North and South Dakota, Alaska, and the and Rep. Tom Cole (R-OK), highlighted Congress of American Indians explained Southwest. Yet current voting systems often priorities included for tribal governments this unique, political relationship at the depress Native turnout. and Native American families in House- annual State of Indian Nations address held The report lays out dozens of barriers, passed appropriations bills for fiscal year in February in Washington, D.C. including geographic isolation, voter ID 2021. They termed the proposed federal “Across this land, tribal nations are requirements, poor funding for voting in investments in health, education, economic writing remarkable stories of cultural, social, Native communities, and ballot-collection development, housing, and more as “critical” political, and economic renewal,” said Sharp, bans. Moreover, 44% of eligible Native to Indian Country. an attorney and president of the Quinault Americans are not registered to vote, De Advocates told ZORA that eradicating Indian Nation in Washington state. “In the León said, “meaning there are more than 1 barriers to political participation for Native face of great obstacles, we relentlessly plow million potential Native votes unaccounted Americans will improve socioeconomic forward in our eternal quest to create futures for.” status, self-determination, land rights, water of hope, opportunity, and cultural vibrancy “It’s all of our duty to exercise our tribal rights, and health care. for our youth and those generations yet to right that our elders fought for and that our “The redemption of America is that come.” ancestors fought hard to give us, in a new power is available,” De León says. “If While declaring the state of Indian era.” Native Americans can engage fully in the Country “strong,” Sharp’s speech didn’t Vote-by-mail options — a hot topic political system — free from the barriers shy away from detailing various challenges. across the country — is especially tricky that currently obstruct them — they can High dropout rates, murders of Indigenous for Native communities. Many reservations reclaim power and participate in America in women, the desecration of sacred lands, do not have street names or addresses, and a way that is fair and just.” climate change, policy and court battles are residents may not receive mail delivery at Facebook among them. So is “ignorance” of Native their homes. Tribal languages may also pose Donna M. Owens is an award-winning American cultures and discrimination. potential barriers to voting, especially for digital, print and broadcast journalist. This Miss Indian World Cheyenne Kippenberger holds up a “Be Counted” sign in front of Tribal headquarters The federal government, Sharp asserted, elders in the community. article appears on zora.medium.com. in Hollywood as she urges Indian Country to fill out the 2020 Census. must honor early treaties and promises and Native Towing Towing & Transportation Services

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Making negatives positive; a new photograph project begins at the museum

eventually allow us to add 9,000 more almost everyone had experiences with them. BY TARA BACKHOUSE images to the online database. But this Anyone who put film in a camera would Collections Manager time, instead of cataloging thousands of 4” have to get those pictures developed, usually x 6” photographs, we will be cataloging at shops that specialized in that or at photo thousands of photographic negatives. Hmm, centers in major retail stores. Those are rare BIG CYPRESS — I’m happy to say photograph negatives, who remembers these days! And it was there that the film that in July the Ah-Tah-Thi Museum was those? It actually wasn’t that long ago that turned into negatives. Photographs could awarded a grant from the Institute of Museum and Library Services Native American/Native Ah-Tah-Thi-Ki Museum Hawaiian Museum This box of jumbled negatives won’t look like this when we’re done with it. The negatives will be Services award program. organized and stored safely with identifying numbers that match up to catalog records in our database. This is a long way of saying that the U.S. government is giving the Tribe some money to then be printed in a number of sizes, directly you’ll be able to request images or give us complete a worthwhile from the negatives. It seems like a long lost feedback through the website. If you know project at the museum memory to some, and an inconvenient old- who the people in the photographs are, just over the next two years. fashioned procedure of the past to others. let us know. We’ll add that information We got a similar grant But it was only 15 to 20 years ago that people to our records and then other people in a few years ago, and began transitioning to digital cameras and the Seminole community will be able to after we finished it, we negatives became a thing of the past. This more easily find those pictures. During were able to put 15,000 happened quickly, and these days people the pandemic, we are thinking of ways to new photographs in are growing up not needing to worry about get our collection out there, and we’re still our online collections. keeping their negatives in order to get photos here for your photographic needs. Stay safe Many of you have found reprinted. That is one of the benefits of the everyone! pictures of family and digital age. However, where negatives exist, friends through our they are valuable pieces of history. Scanning This project was made possible in part website because of this a photographic negative can allow someone by the Institute of Museum and Library project. And the more to reproduce a higher quality image than just Services Award Number MN-245232- images we catalog, the scanning the associated photograph. OMS-20. The Institute of Museum and more of them you will The museum has far more photographs Library Services is the primary source of see on our website. You than negatives, but we know we can provide federal support for the nation's libraries can search for people, more images to the community if we catalog and museums. We advance, support, and and if you find pictures thousands of negatives that originally came empower America’s museums, libraries, and you would like to add to from the Seminole Tribune’s editorial work. related organizations through grantmaking, your personal collection, Our new cataloging assistant, Chelsea research, and policy development. Our you can request copies Nielsen, will begin this project at the end of vision is a nation where museums and directly from our site: September. And even though the museum libraries work together to transform the https://semtribe. is not currently open, she will be working lives of individuals and communities. To pastperfectonline.com/ Ah-Tah-Thi-Ki Museum tirelessly behind closed doors to scan and learn more, visit www.imls.gov and follow The project we’re The database records will look like this. We’ll add as much information as we can, but we need your help identifying describe these negatives, so that we can get us on Facebook and Twitter. starting now will people, places and dates. them back to you. When the time comes, Native American to curate Native American art at the Metropolitan Museum of Art

STAFF REPORT research library in Chicago. Norby was also in charge Sylvia Yount. an assistant professor of American Indian “That installation laid the groundwork studies at the University of Wisconsin- for the Museum’s new Native Arts program, NEW YORK CITY — Patricia Eau Claire and earned a Ph.D. from the which Patricia will shape and lead at this Marroquin Norby was named associate University of Minnesota, Twin Cities, in transformational moment,” Yount said. curator of Native American art at the American studies, with a specialization “We are thrilled to have Patricia join us Metropolitan Museum of Art in New in Native American art history and visual in the American Wing, where we’ve been York City. She is the first full-time Native culture. exploring entangled narratives of cross- American art curator in the museum’s 150- “Dr. Norby, an award-winning scholar cultural encounter between Native and non- year history. of Native American art history and visual Native individuals and communities.” She is of Purépecha heritage. The culture, is also a museum professional,” Norby looks forward to returning to her Purépecha is an Indigenous population in said Max Hollein, director of the Met. “We fine arts roots. northwestern Mexico. look forward to supporting her scholarship “I am deeply honored to join with Norby started on the job Sept. 14. She and programmatic collaborations with American Indian and Indigenous artists will be responsible for developing long-term colleagues across the Met as well as with and communities in advancing our diverse partnerships with Indigenous communities, Indigenous communities throughout experiences and voices in The Met’s scholars, artists and audiences. the region and continent for our diverse exhibitions, collections, and programs,” Norby most recently served as senior international audiences.” Norby said. “This is a time of significant executive and assistant director of the The curator position was made possible evolution for the museum. I look forward Smithsonian Institution’s National Museum by a gift of more than 100 Indigenous to being part of this critical shift in the of the American Indian in New York, prior works of art from museum trustees Charles presentation of Native American art.” Scott Rosenthal to that she was director of the D’Arcy and Valerie Diker in 2017. The art is in an Patricia Marroquin Norby is the first full-time Native American art curator in the history of the McNickle Center for American Indian ongoing exhibition in the Met’s American Metropolitan Museum of Art. and Indigenous Studies at The Newberry Wing, where Norby will work with curator National Museum of the American Indian in Washington reopens to the public

STAFF REPORT remains closed. New exhibitions include: “Developing Stories: Native Photographers in the Field,” an online WASHINGTON — After being exhibition of a series of photo essays created closed all summer due to the pandemic, the by Native photojournalists Russel Albert National Museum of the American Indian in Daniels and Tailyr Irvine in collaboration Washington, D.C., will reopen to the public with the museum. This photo essay Sept. 25. Its regular operations will will be provides thought-provoking insights into open Wednesday to Sunday, from 11 a.m. to 21st-century Native life and a nuanced 4 p.m. Free timed-entry passes are required perspective on an American experience that and are available on the museum’s website. is largely invisible to mainstream society. “Why We Serve,” opens Nov. 4. This The reopening will include enhanced exhibition tells personal stories of Native safety precautions. Some areas of the American veterans and details the history museum will remain closed, including of more than 250 years of Native American the cafes, stores, theaters and the participation in the military, from colonial imagiNATIONS Activity Center. The “Our times to the present day. Universes” exhibition and the Sealaska "Indigenous Peoples’ Day: Mascots, Gallery on the will also be closed. No onsite Monuments, and Memorialization" will programming or tours will be offered. More be held as a virtual event Oct. 12 at 1 p.m. information about the museum’s reopening How do people’s memories of the past is available at americanindian.si.edu/. inform and influence the current racial and Scott Rosenthal NMAI’s venue in New York City social landscape? As part of the museum’s The National Museum of the American Indian in Washington, D.C., reopened Sept. 25 after being closed for several months due to the Covid-19 pandemic.

new series across America. Featured panelists include Youth in Action: Brook Thompson (Yurok and Karuk), Conversations Julian Brave NoiseCat (Canim Lake Band about Our Tsq’escen and Lil’Wat Nation), Lina Krueck F u t u r e , (Oglala Lakota), Dylan Baca (White participants Mountain Apache) and Alberto Correa III can hear from (Taíno). young Native The event will feature an introduction activists who are by Kevin Gover (Pawnee), director of the propelling this National Museum of the American Indian, conversation and a musical performance by hip-hop artist forward and Frank Waln (Sicangu Lakota). The panel addressing the will be moderated by museum cultural tension between interpreter Michaela Pavlat (Sault Ste. history, memory Marie Band of Chippewa Indians). and the current NAMI/Facebook m o v e m e n t s Visitors can once again view the exhibits in-person at the National Musuem of the American Indian. happening 9A • The Seminole Tribune • September 30, 2020 Health New Betty Mae Jumper Medical Center up and running in Hollywood BY DAMON SCOTT and it’s easy access,” she said. Staff Reporter Kiswani-Barley was already familiar with Hollywood’s health care system, because she used to visit the clinic once a HOLLYWOOD — The unconquered week while working in Big Cypress. She spirit of the namesake of the Hollywood also lives nearby in Weston. Reservation’s new medical building is alive She was first medically trained in New and well despite the Covid-19 pandemic. York City, and then in Iowa, where she The Betty Mae Jumper Medical Center was trained in rural medicine – including was a goal of Hollywood Councilman populations with high levels of comorbidities Chris Osceola and Tribal Council for many (patients presenting more than one disease). years. That goal was reached this year when But Iowa was too cold and warm Florida construction was completed and the center weather called to her, so she and her family gradually opened, even though a planned moved to Broward County in 2017 where community event to mark the occasion was she was in private practice for about a year canceled for safety reasons. before she interviewed with the Tribe. The center is located at 111 West Coral “I liked Big Cypress because it’s kind Way at the Seminole Estates in Hollywood. of like urban medicine, but in a rural area,” The towering Guitar Hotel is just to its north. she said. Jumper, of course, is the matriarch Kiswani-Barley said that while the and Seminole legend – someone with Tribe has more financial resources than a long list of personal and professional others, there are still comorbidities in the accomplishments – including her health care community. advocacy and 40-year career as a nurse. She “I learn new things every day about died in 2011 at 88. different disease pathologies every day,” she A ceremonial groundbreaking for the said. “It’s intriguing and makes the day go center was held Jan. 16, 2019. by a lot faster.” Carlos Fuentes For a complete list of health care-related One stop shop The new Betty Mae Jumper Medical Center opened earlier this year on the Seminole Estates portion of the Hollywood Reservation. programs and services provided by the Tribe, go to semtribe.com. The hurricane resistant state-of-the-art medical center is two stories tall and 40,000 • Massage therapy New leadership appointments because of the pandemic. square feet with many amenities. • Chiropractic and spine care services “Social distancing is in effect, but if they One of the key reasons it was developed • Physical therapy Vandhana Kiswani-Barley is a physician need to come in, they come in,” she said, was to locate all of the offerings that • More urgent care services and the new interim executive director of adding that the center is open to any Tribal fall under the Health & Human Services Health & Human Services, succeeding member regardless of what reservation they umbrella to one building, and to add some The programs that have moved to the former executive director Paul Isaacs. live on. new ones, like pediatric dentistry services. In complex include: She’s been in the position since June The clinic accepts walk-ins, but addition, the existing health clinic had been 29, after working at the Big Cypress health encourages appointments due to Covid-19. outgrown. • Advocacy & Guardianship clinic as a family practitioner for about two “All staff is wearing full [Personal Enhancements and services at the new • Center for Behavioral Health years. Protective Equipment] to see all patients at center include: • Children’s Center for Diagnostics While the new center is completed all times,” Kiswani-Barley said. & Therapy and open, Kiswani-Barley said some of the There aren’t any facility tours taking • More treatment rooms • Health & Human Services departments are operating with limited in- place, as there would have been at a • Dialysis treatment Administration house staff due to Covid-19. typical grand opening, but Seminole Media • Pharmacy with drive-thru • Tribal Health Clinic/Non-Clinical However, medical and dental services Productions produced a video to give Tribal • Extra triage station Services are fully staffed, she said, and the pharmacy members a peek with a virtual walk thru. • Special needs space during • Tribal Health Plan Administration. is up and running normally. “It’s a beautiful building with a lot hurricane season in the event of an evacuation Kiswani-Barley said she hasn’t noticed of different departments compared to the Vandhana Kiswani-Barley is the interim executive • Optometry/optical services that Tribal members were canceling previous one. All services are under one roof director of Health and Human Services.

share stories, understand the way life was impacts everyone, but most of all people of through the chat session on the screen. One I found a new medicine; all these young F CLIMATE for their ancestors and what can be done color and those least able to contribute to the comment came from Sheema Saeed, who people rising up. You are filling my heart From page 5A together to shape the future. problem.” grew up in the Maldives, a nation in the today.” “Mother Earth provides for us,” She believes everyone should become Indian Ocean near the equator. Juan Cancel, THPO assistant director, Skenadore said. “This type of gathering more connected to nature. “In 1971 I was 3-years-old when an and Quenton Cypress, THPO community “We experience climate chaos bundles us together to look at a common “We have no other home,” Sprague elder taught me about climate change, about engagement manager, are creating a climate firsthand,” she said. “What happens to the footprint of what steps we need to take to said. “We need to consider how we can live polar ice caps melting. I was living on an resiliency plan for the Seminole Tribe. With water happens to us. We see the changes in renew her strength and spirit.” without exacerbating climate change. We are island on the equator and had not even seen input from the community they have been food security, patterns in animals, fish and He gave advice freely including: air, at risk of losing something vital and need to an ice cube than. Who would have thought building the plan that will maintain the birds. We are the original stewards of this water and earth need to be respected, Earth act before it is too late.” we Maldivians will be the most vulnerable Tribe’s cultural identity. They attended the land and have been so since creation.” is our only home and we all share the Graduate student Sarah Chacon believes to impact of climate change? In 2010, I tried conference and were pleased to learn from Miller believes market based solutions responsibility for it. climate change classes should be taught to teach primary teacher trainees at Leicester people the world over. won’t help indigenous communities or heal “The footprints of the future come to on the reservations, as it is in some other University science of climate change in a “It speaks to how people are anxious the world. Directing resources to collective us through resilience,” Skenadore said. schools. way kids could understand. I was told kids to learn,” Cancel said. “We want to make well-being, however, could begin to undo the “As we look at all the struggles Earth has “As we become knowledgeable of how are too young to understand climate change sure we build some of the things we learned damage colonization had on Native regions. been through, she has worked to fulfill her interconnected we are with the Earth, we and here I am listening to kids talk about it,” into our climate resiliency project. It’s an “We, in Alaska, have the knowledge responsibility and we need to make sure we will realize we have to make it a priority Saeed wrote. intriguing concept, how to protect against that will sustain us for the millennia,” she do a good job of making her stronger. We and teach it to our kids,” said Chacon, who Many of the sessions were interactive climate change while adhering to cultural said. “We have our original instructions and will never quit; we are Earth people.” also attends Northern Arizona University. “I and ended with a live question and answer norms. A lot of this is about planning, but be we have a plan that will lead this world to a After the adults spoke, young people believe our people have a lot of fight in us. period. careful about technology. If you don’t have more liberated, collective future.” shared stories of their own resilience in this What you do to the Earth affects everyone. “It’s been a fabulous experience being a good plan it won’t matter. That helped us Karla Bollier, founder and director time of climate change and coronavirus. Kids need to know about climate change, so in a Zoom box with all of you,” High-Bear with the adaptation plan we are trying to of the Climate Justice Initiative, focuses Sixth- and seventh-graders Prathona and let’s keep spreading awareness.” said. “We have the opportunity to bring build.” on Indigenous human rights and climate Prokriti Datta, of Saskatchewan, Canada, During the sessions, attendees were able healing messages to one another. I think the change. have been keeping busy and gaining respect to contribute comments or ask questions young people will do a lot to save the Earth. Indigenous people have always been for the environment during the months of the adaptable in the past, but climate change pandemic. They have listened to ancestors’ is more complex and is compounded by stories, read, wrote, walked, danced, played cultural and social pressures. Adjustment to instruments and sang. new conditions require resources that a lot “I am writing about Covid-19 so the next of communities don’t possess. Indigenous generation can learn about what happened people who migrate from their traditional during this pandemic,” Prokriti said. homes can be more vulnerable. Their parents are originally from RichaRd “Deforestation is pushing indigenous Bangladesh, where they were a minority. from the forest to urban slums,” Bollier “Minorities, like indigenous, face said. “Climate change exacerbates existing racism in everyday life,” Prathona said. inequalities. Women are effective agents of “First Nations elders taught us about the castillo change and are the ones people often look resiliency wheel. We learned why the natural to in a crisis. Empowering and investing elements are important and that the air, sun, in women provides a ripple effect in a water and insects are all our relatives. We community; when women do well, families 954.522.3500 don’t own the land, it owns us. The land is do well and thus the community does well. our mother; it gives us food. Culture is who Women have always been the stewards of we are; in language and knowledge we find our lands, families and cultures.” our identity.” helping the Northern Arizona University student Elders and youth Meronda Walker has been aware of climate seminole community change since first grade and has tried to Tribal elders and youth provided incorporate sustainable techniques into her For Many Years insights into climate change from their lifestyle. unique perspectives. The session revealed “I care about future generations, wildlife things that can be learned from the past to and the planet,” she said. “Everything we prepare for the future. do is intertwined with what happens to 24 houRs a daY Rose High-Bear, founder of Wisdom of our planet. The Earth doesn’t belong to us, the Elderberry Farm in Oregon which helps we belong to Earth and have an obligation Since 1990 I have protected rights like yours. to restore native food species and habitats, to make it livable for future generations. My office defends DUIs, drug offenses, suspended believes young people will make great Native Americans are about preserving for licenses, domestic violence, and all felonies and change in the world. the future, that’s our duty.” “There are many things we can say Walker believes the solution to climate misdemeanors throughout Florida and the about climate,” High-Bear said. “We never change will be collaboration and everyone United States. had out of control fires because we always must work to reduce their carbon footprints The hiring of an attorney is an important decision did controlled burns. The forest was rich and with hard choices. full of food and medicine. Today we have Sara Sprague grew up in the woods and that should not be based solely upon advertise- soil that isn’t being taken care of because of experienced the effects of climate change first ment. Castillo worked as a Public Defender in single purpose farms. Monoculture depletes hand. She was devastated when the woods Broward County from 1990-1996 and has been in the soil. Now I am surrounded by fires but around her were replaced with houses. private practice since 1996. In 1995, he was voted we don’t call them wildfires, we call them “It’s hard to put into words how important RIchaRD caStIllo the Trial Attorney of the year. He graduated from climate fires.” nature is,” said Sprague, at graduate student As the principal of the Oneida Nation at Northern Arizona University. “As a child I FloRIDa cRIMInal DeFenSe attoURney Capital University in 1989 and was admitted to the High School, Artley Skenadore spends his was surrounded by wild flowers, fruits, plants Florida Bar in 1990, Federal Bar in 1992, and the Fed- life surrounded by young people. He said and was privileged to have the experience www.caStIllolawoFFIceS.coM eral Trial Bar in 1994. climate change provides the opportunity to of living in the wilderness. Climate change 10A • The Seminole Tribune • September 30, 2020 SEMINOLE SCENES

Seminole Hard Rock Tampa, Hollywood RED IT: Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Tampa, left, and The Guitar Hotel on the Hollywood Reservation were lit up in red on Sept. 1 to show support to the live events community, production personnel and crews. Venues throughout the country came together online and posted photos on social media under #RedAlertRESTART. According to the coalition #WeMakeEvents North America, more than 2,000 performance venues, iconic structures and residences were lit in red in over 75 cities and towns to raise public and media awareness in support of the live events sector. The coalition also said 95% of live events have been cancelled due to Covid-19 and nearly all companies have cut staff and/or wages.

Seminole Scenes Rewind: Photos from the past - Boehmer Collection

Boehmer Collection A scene from the Brighton Indian Day School in 1950 features students with William Boehmer and his wife, Edith, who were hired to work at the school when it first opened in 1938. Photography was a hobby of William Boehmer, who maintained an extensive photo collection of Seminole life with well over 1,000 photos.

Boehmer Collection A gathering in 1954 includes some of the Tribe’s leaders. Boehmer Collection Youngsters gather in a photo that is perhaps from the 1950s.

Boehmer Collection (2) Boehmer Collection Youngsters in patchwork appear in this undated photo. School children play ball in this photo from 1950. 11A • The Seminole Tribune • September 30, 2020 NATIONAL NATIVE NEWS ‘We’ll define our own moderate “When you consider right now that referendum on President Trump and his Vandals target Michigan historic and see our reservation boundaries.” livelihood,’ First Nation Chief says of the government has the commitment to handling of the COVID-19 pandemic. site where Native American children Cherokee Nation citizen, Joseph Erb, transition the land-based closed container The Lumbee Tribe received $5 million in provided feedback about the reservation Treaty right to fish they made that commitment to Canadians. CARES Act funding and set up their own were forced to assimilate into ‘white mapping project, which includes mapping They have a path of reconciliation that they testing sites across rural areas, Godwin says. culture’ for all five civilized tribes. SAULNIERVILLE, Nova Scotia, often speak of,” he said. “We’ve administered 4,500 tests “It is an exciting step forward to be Canada — A week after a Mi’kmaq First Chamberlin wouldn’t say what — if ourselves,” he says. “We came together as MOUNT PLEASANT, Mich. — included on the map,” Erb said. “This is a Nation launched its own lobster fishery in any — action the coalition may take if its a tribal government and we were able to do Vandals have once again struck a mid- visual reminder that our nation is still here southwest Nova Scotia, a Liberal member of demands aren’t met. these things for our people, and I think that’s Michigan historic site that once served as a and a contemporary Indigenous nation of parliament is breaking with his party, asking [what’s] unique about the Lumbee people is boarding school where hundreds of Native Continent.” the government to clarify what’s permitted. - City News (Vancouver, B.C.) that we had to create our own way of helping American children were housed after being On July 16, 2020, Oklahoma’s attorney The Supreme Court has ruled our people.” taken from their families. general and five major Native American Indigenous people have a right to earn a Godwin says he is encouraging the The Mount Pleasant Indian Industrial tribes in Oklahoma announced an agreement moderate livelihood, but it’s not clear what Crow Tribe partners with Montana Native Vote for 2020 Census Lumbee people, especially the elderly and Boarding School, or MIIBS, is located on on proposed federal legislation regarding that means. those vulnerable to COVID-19, to take 320 acres in northwest Mount Pleasant. The civil and criminal jurisdiction following a On Sept. 24, fishermen from school was in operation from 1893 through The U.S. Census Bureau recently cut the advantage of early voting options and mail- recent U.S. Supreme Court decision. Sipekne’katik First Nation held their in voting. Few Lumbee registered voters 1934 and had an annual enrollment of about Republican Attorney General, Mike position on the wharf overlooking St. Marys response period deadline by a full month, from 300 students. It was part of the federal Oct. 31 to Sept. 30, 2020, disproportionately have voted by mail in the past. Hunter, announced the deal with leaders Bay as the RCMP parked nearby. This year has also been defined by a Indian boarding school system, which of the Cherokee, Chickasaw, Choctaw, “There’s no definition exactly,” said affecting the counting of Black, Brown, removed American Indian children from Indigenous and immigrant communities. summer of protests against police brutality Muscogee (Creek) and Seminole nations Chief Michael Sack of Sipekne’katik and racial inequality. Since the Jim Crow their families and culture as part of a forced after the high court ruled that much of eastern First Nation. “We’re here to fish, collect The Bureau’s new deadline has sent education and white-culture assimilation Montana tribes and social justice organizations era, the Lumbee Tribe has been on the front Oklahoma remains an Indian reservation, data, go back to our community, and have lines of fighting for racial justice, Godwin initiative that persisted for nearly a century. according to an Associated Press report. consultation with our community.” like Montana Native Vote (MNV) into crisis The site is now owned by the Saginaw mode, fearing a historic undercount that could says, most notably by driving out the Ku The Associated Press report said, In a letter, Kings Hants Liberal MP Klux Klan at the Battle of Hayes Pond in Chippewa Indian Tribe and was listed on the “Under the agreement, the state would Kody Blois voiced his support for the First curtail funding for tribal programs for years to National Register of Historic Places since come. 1958. have criminal jurisdiction over non-Native Nations fishery, but also notes there needs Now, the Lumbee tribe is following in 2018. The tribe is in the planning stages of American offenders throughout the treaty to be clarification around what moderate In response to the new deadline, MNV has rehabilitating and repurposing the site for partnered with the Crow Incident Command their ancestors’ footsteps by answering these territories, with some exceptions, while the livelihood means. new calls for racial equality. the healing of its people. tribes would have overlapping jurisdiction “The court has not defined it and, of Center to set up census drive-through count About a week and a half ago, vandalism stations to help members of the Apsaalooke “Our people have come through that over most offenders who are tribal citizens. course, because we don’t have some of the time, and we welcome others into our was discovered at the site, according to Federal prosecutors would still have certainty that I’ve mentioned, I think that’s Nation complete the 2020 census. Frank Cloutier, public relations director for With one less month to get people counted, community,” he says. “We’ve always worked jurisdiction under the Major Crimes Act where some of the tension lies,” Blois said. together for the greater good of each other, the tribe. over certain serious crimes committed by He also suggests Ottawa use its authority the Crow Tribe signed a letter of support to “This happens about every year around allow local MNV organizers to establish the not just African American and American Native Americans.” to regulate a moderate livelihood fishery. Indian, but the other groups as well.” this time,” Cloutier said. “It’s a constant, The Choctaw Nation is an American “It’s an option,” Blois said. “Whether or stations. MNV hired people from within the persistent (problem) around Halloween, tribal communities to help facilitate the stations. Indian territory covering about 6,952,960 not that’s an option our government pursues, - Here & Now (NPR) with the old, abandoned buildings.” acres, occupying portions of southeastern I don’t want to speak to that ... That doesn’t All people working at the stations have The site has two dormitories, what’s received specialized safety training and supplies Oklahoma in the United States and the third- seem to be a case.” It won’t replace Columbus Day, left of an administration building, an old largest federally recognized tribe in the The coast guard was in the air on Sept. to prevent the spread of COVID-19 and the gymnasium, and a wood shop, Cloutier said. stations are designed to get people counted in an but Arizona governor proclaims Oct. United States and the second-largest Indian 24 and, on the ground, the RCMP continued In 2019, the tribe’s Tribal Historic reservation in the area after the Navajo. to receive complaints about uttering threats entirely contactless manner. 12 ‘Indigenous Peoples Day’ Preservation Office was awarded a Tribal “Our Montana tribal nations are in crisis The Cherokee Nation, also known as the and vandalism. Heritage grant from the National Park Cherokee Nation of Oklahoma, is the largest Chief Sack is accusing the commercial mode reacting to the new deadline amid the PHOENIX, Ariz. — State Sen. Service to install a protective fence around Covid-19 pandemic.” said Marci McLean, of three Cherokee federally recognized fishermen of stealing his crews’ gear. Jamescita Peshlakai has been working since two buildings on the site. Trespassers tribes in the United States. The Cherokee “They’ve been interfering with our executive director of Montana Native Vote. 2013 to get a bill passed that would replace deliberately cut a portion of the protective “All of our tribal communities in Montana are Nation reservation boundaries include 7,000 fisheries the whole step of the way,” Chief Columbus Day with Indigenous Peoples fence and broke door hinges on the old gym miles in northeastern Oklahoma. Sack said. “Right from the wharf here to the coming in under 50% counted and the lowest Day in Arizona, but she was always met with to gain entry, Cloutier said. is at 11%. This is just another political move water.” leaders telling her it would never happen. “It had to be premeditated, because most - 5newsonline.com (Arkansas) CTV News tried to speak with to silence the people of color in our country. The closest she got was in 2018, when people don’t carry heavy enough cutters to We are so thrilled to be able to assist our tribal commercial fishermen on Thursday, but they she got a bill passed recognizing Native get through chain-link fencing,” Cloutier 3 million pounds of firewood said they’ve hired a public relations firm and communities in getting every person counted. American Day on June 2. said. “In the past, we’ve had people in there were told not to talk right now. We are sending a message to Washington to let “It was really a hollow victory,” she looking for copper pipes or artifacts. A lot donated to Native American At issue is whether a Supreme Court them know that we are still here and we will be said, “June 2nd in the hottest state as a day of the time, it’s just young people looking tribes after severe northern Utah decision from 21 years ago, known as the counted.” to celebrate Native people, it was more of a for a quick thrill, going into an abandoned windstorm Marshall decision, that affirmed the right The census determines the allocation of slap in the face.” building to find something spooky.” of Indigenous groups in Eastern Canada to nearly $1.5 trillion in federal funds yearly for Peshlakai still hasn’t passed a bill Tribal police have been alerted to the essential programs and is used to determine SALT LAKE CITY, Utah — Nearly fish and hunt for a “moderate livelihood” to establish Indigenous Peoples Day, but damage, though no arrests have been made 10,000 volunteers collected and delivered enables Indigenous fisherman to catch and representation in the House of Representatives she has made some progress. On Sept. 4, as of Wednesday, Sept. 16, Cloutier said. based on population. over 3 million pounds of firewood to Native sell lobster outside regular fishing season. Gov. Doug Ducey signed a proclamation He added that just Tuesday, a tribal member American Tribes across Utah in September. Wayne MacKay, a professor Emeritus If Indigenous people are undercounted, it presented by Peshlakai and the Indigenous reported seeing four juveniles on the site, could mean the loss of as much as $1 billion This comes after a major windstorm rocked at Dalhousie Law School who teaches Peoples’ Initiative that recognizes two of whom were wearing sheets like Northern Utah and downed thousands of constitutional law, said the term “moderate per year nationally in resources that tribes rely Indigenous Peoples Day on Oct. 12, which ghosts. on, such as healthcare, schools, roads, and other trees. livelihood” was not defined in the Marshall is also Columbus Day. “We must now face the cost of repairs Operation Firewood Rescue, an decision, but notes the 1760 and 1761 treaties essential programs and services. The proclamation does not replace and deal with the very painful reality that The US Census Bureau estimates that initiative sponsored by The Church of Jesus talk about the right for Indigenous people to Columbus Day as a state holiday. people are desecrating the site,” said Tribal Christ of Latter-day Saints in partnership continue to hunt and fish for “necessaries.” it undercounted Native Americans living on “We’re grateful for the contributions Historic Preservation Officer Marcella reservations by 4.9 percent in 2010. The result with Utah government entities, Utah “There’s two questions left unanswered, and influence of Arizona’s Native Hadden in a post on the tribe’s Facebook Navajo Health System, the Utah Trucking I think,” MacKay said. “How broad are these was a severe misallocation of federal funds that American communities,” said Patrick Ptak, page. “Based on postings on social media, left some tribes drastically underfunded. Association, Associated General Contractors necessaries that people from the First Nation communications director for the Governor’s some think it is ‘interesting’ or ‘fun.’ Some and the Rotary Clubs of Utah, recently can hunt and gather, and then how many can Many homes on reservations don’t have Office. think they are ‘ghost hunting’ on the site of city-style addresses and most tribal members transported the firewood to Navajo Nation they do in this moderate livelihood without When she heard the proclamation was an ‘Ancient Indian Burial Ground.’ These and other tribes in Utah. becoming a commercial fishery?” MacKay living in remote areas lack access to broadband signed, Peshlakai said everyone involved hurtful actions have prompted the tribe to call or a computer, making it almost impossible According to a press release from The said. was surprised and happy about it. She on university, civic, and public communities Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, “The main thrust of the Marshall to complete the census online. So census had run so many bills trying to create an to support and assist tribal efforts to stop the enumerators typically go door-to-door, updating from Logan to Draper, thousands of Latter- decision is that the federal government Indigenous Peoples Day but was told it unlawful access to this important historic day Saints and other volunteers donated should define what the moderate livelihood addresses and leaving paper questionnaires, would never happen. site.” which can be mailed in. COVID-19 changed all their time and resources to help with the is and what limits should be put on it “I don’t think any other governor The tribe holds an Honoring, Healing massive cleanup that was left after the severe in consultation with the First Nations,” of this. has ever done that,” Peshlakai said of the and Remembering event at the location Montana’s Native communities are among windstorm. MacKay said. proclamation. “This is the first.” every June 6, the date commemorating when Volunteers would help remove trees and As for the definition of what a moderate the hardest hit by the virus. Although Native Peshlakai thinks “the governor saw this the school closed. The event honors those Americans account for 6.6% of Montana’s then cut the wood into 18-inch pieces before livelihood is, Chief Sack says it’s up to the as a chance to mitigate the racial tension. I children and families who suffered from moving them to a county-owned lot nearby. Sipekne’katik First Nation. population, they comprise 17% of the state’s really appreciate him doing this. It says a the effects of the Boarding School-era and total COVID-19 cases and 32% of deaths from Pete Sands, a public relations specialist “We’ll define our own moderate lot about where our state and our nation is creates opportunities for healing the tribal for Utah Navajo Health System, said that livelihood,” he said. “We’re not here to have COVID-19, according to a July 24 Department hopefully headed.” community. It is the only time of the year of Public Health and Human Services report. he started a firewood program last October anybody decide anything for us.” “When I introduce this legislation in the site is open to the public. explaining that firewood is a lifeline for the When asked about Blois’ suggestion The pandemic sent many tribal communities January 2021, I need the momentum of this “By preserving and protecting this into lockdown. As a result, all census activities Navajo Nation community in Utah. to regulate the fishery, the minister’s office proclamation and the national movement to important cultural and historical resource, “The unemployment rate and the says “it is not the minister’s view or the were initially halted in Montana’s tribal nations; do this,” she added. we take a step toward restoring trust with they were resumed for some nations in July. infrastructure on the Navajo reservation is government’s position.” In the future, Peshlakai hopes to “make the non-Native community and the Federal not that great, so you put COVID on top “That letter does not reflect the position Columbus Day Indigenous Peoples Day and Government,” the tribe said in a Facebook - Sidney (Montana) Herald of that and it just decimated everything,” of the government or the minister’s views,” maybe make June 2 Native American Civil status. The Ziibiwing Center of Anishinabe Sands told Church volunteers. “We don’t said Jane Deeks, press secretary with the Rights Day.” Culture & Lifeways, the tribe’s museum and have heaters, we don’t have central cooling Minister of Fisheries and Oceans Bernadette Lumbee Tribe emerges as pivotal If her idea becomes law, she said, “it’s cultural center, has a permanent exhibition systems on the reservation, a lot of the Jordan. “We are not talking here about swing vote in North Carolina an opportunity to move the conversation about the MIIBS and co-hosts the Honoring, homes here depend on firewood for food.” regulating or infringing on their right. We forward and to start really working on the Healing and Remembering event. In response to the firewood need, piles want to work with them to implement it.” This presidential election all eyes are on inclusion of Native Americans in every part “We remember the lives of Native of wood from storm-ridden areas were battleground states such as North Carolina, of American life and opportunity.” students that had passed during their tenure collected and dropped off at 42 different - CTV News particularly Robeson County, just south of The proclamation says Arizona “rejects at the school,” Cloutier said. “Today, well locations. Fayetteville and home to the Lumbee Tribe. oppression against underrepresented groups over 100 students recorded as going to “The magnitude of this project is The Native American tribe is the largest that perpetuate socioeconomic disparities.” school there never returned home. We don’t far larger than we ever anticipated and First Nations demanding federal non-federally recognized tribe east of the It says the state “recognizes that Indigenous know what happened with them, with their it’s astounding,” said Stephen Studdert, government take action on fish Mississippi. Robeson County is one of the people are the first inhabitants of the remains. chairman of “Operation Firewood Rescue”. farming along B.C. coast most diverse areas in the country, and after Americas, including lands that later become “It’s a very sensitive area for us, Once the 3 million pounds of firewood consistently voting Democrat, went red in the United States of America,” and that culturally and historically,” he continued. was collected along the Wasatch Front, the VANCOUVER, British Columbia, favor of President Trump in 2016. Arizona acknowledges “historic injustices “We’ve been trying to do what we can firewood was quickly distributed to the Canada — A coalition of over 100 B.C. But this year, many members of the suffered by Indigenous people.” through the years to protect it and keep various Native American Tribes in Utah. First Nations are ‘turning the screws’ on the Lumbee tribe remain undecided and could Indigenous Peoples Day has been aspects of it preserved. It just makes it Drivers of 80 long-combination vehicles federal Fisheries Minister, demanding she emerge as a critical “swing tribe” in the recognized by the city of Phoenix since 2016, very difficult when we have these constant such as semi-trucks and double-trailers lined take action on coastal fish farms. upcoming election, says Lumbee Tribal after the City Council voted 9-0 to establish interferences and trespasses.” up to load firewood and then made their Coalition spokesperson Bob Chair Harvey Godwin Jr. the day as an annual city commemoration The costs of the damage is currently way to drop off firewood loads to Navajo, Chamberlin says their group is calling for Godwin says being a swing tribe is event. The city’s recognition did not create being assessed, Cloutier said. Goshutes, and Shosone tribes. immediate action, noting that under the actually good for Indian country because it an official city holiday nor replace Columbus “One message I’d like to get out there “Even though we come from a different Cohen Commission report, the Department will bring national exposure to the issues Day. is the Saginaw Chippewa Indian Tribe is background, different cultures, we can still of Fisheries and Oceans has until the end of Native Americans are facing across the “I’m grateful to our Governor for extremely serious about maintaining the come together and help each other,” said September to prove that fish farms on B.C.’s U.S., such as access to broadband, health signing this proclamation. This has been an integrity and safety of those buildings,” Sands. “It’s a great example for the Church, coastal waters don’t pose more than minimal care, education and affordable housing. effort close to the hearts of many Indigenous he continued. “It’s very much a dangerous people like myself and others.” risk to Fraser River salmon stocks. The Lumbee are recognized as a state tribe people,” Peshlakai, D-Cameron, said in a place to be poking around.” Once the curing process is complete, the “With reports that we became aware of by North Carolina, but the lack of federal press release. “It is time we move beyond split and stacked firewood will be distributed in the past month or two, it’s very clear that recognition means they miss out on the full Columbus Day and onto a day that celebrates - mlive.com (Michigan) to Native American elders and families at the Minister and the Department of Fisheries benefits awarded to other Native American Indigenous people.” each location. and Oceans is unable to demonstrate that tribes. Peshlakai worked with the Indigenous Native American tribes’ “It’s a tragedy to see those trees go minimal risk,” Chamberlin said. “I’m hoping that it will inspire other Peoples’ Initiative on securing the down,” said Samuel Alon Pugh, Blanding’s tribes to become more involved in the proclamation. They are also working with reservation boundaries now on stake president for the Church. “But they Because the DFO is unable to adhere Google Maps to the recommendations of the Cohen political process,” he says. “And the California Congresswoman Norma Torres were able to take that tragedy and turn it Commission when it comes to salmon farms bottom line is our native voices matter most to sponsor a bill recognizing Indigenous into a miracle of love, a feeling of warmth they will need to remove fish farms from the when we are active in the nation’s form of Peoples Day on the federal level. The reservation boundaries for Cherokee that is not just in the wood that will burn but ocean. government.” Peshlakai praised the work of Dylan Nation, Choctaw Nation, Osage Nation, in the hearts that will swell with love and Sea lice, disease, and pathogens have Living in the Bible Belt, Godwin Baca, the 18-year-old president of the Muscogee Creek Nation and Chickasaw appreciation for the people that have given impacted fish in the Fraser and Thompson acknowledges that many members of the Indigenous Peoples’ Initiative. She said Nation are now shown on Google Maps. the gift. [For those] receiving, the gift [will] River but Chamberlin claims the DFO’s tribe are “devout Christians” and hold without his help the proclamation wouldn’t Choctaw Nation said this will make give for a long time.” reporting is not accurate. conservative values, which is why many have been signed. it easier for people to search and view the “We’ve seen reports now and analysis have thrown their support behind President “He’s a high schooler and he’s really reservation boundaries with just a few clicks. - ABC4.com (Salt Lake City) that the industry has been under-reporting Trump in the past. He says there has been about inclusion. He started the nonprofit “After the monumental US Supreme sea lice for six or seven or eight years. I more buzz around Trump because he has simply to pass Indigenous Peoples Day in Court ruling in McGirt vs Oklahoma, we’ve mean there’s nothing that the Department of visited North Carolina multiple times, while Arizona,” she said. “This wouldn’t have had many questions about our reservation Fisheries and Oceans has done that proves Democratic nominee Joe Biden has not happened without him. He’s the one who boundaries, which always existed on paper that they’re not in a conflict of interest.” yet made a trip to the key state during the really lobbied the governor. maps,” stated Cherokee Nation Principal The group says Ottawa has a Sept. 30 campaign. Cheif, Chuck Hoskin Jr. “Now that our deadline to adhere to the recommendations. This election is being seen as a - AZcentral.com (Arizona) reservation is labeled on Google Maps, it’s easy for people around the world to search 12A • The Seminole Tribune • September 30, 2020

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HARDROCKHOLLY.COM 1 Seminole Way Hollywood, FL 33314 1B • The Seminole Tribune • September 30, 2020 Education B FGCU among recipients Florida State University’s homecoming of Native American delayed until spring 2021

BY BEVERLY BIDNEY Agriculture Fund’s Staff Reporter

$15M grant Chalk up another casualty of the 2020 coronavirus pandemic: Florida State BY BEVERLY BIDNEY to FGCU, 10 other recipients were awarded University’s homecoming festivities, which Staff Reporter money in the educational organization the Seminole Tribe’s princesses always play category, including the University of a significant role. Arizona and several Tribal-related colleges, The FSU Alumni Association FORT MYERS — Indian Country such as Diné College in Arizona, Nebraska announced that homecoming, originally organizations nationwide are the Indian Community College, and Sitting Bull set for Nov. 9-14, has been rescheduled for beneficiaries of a $15 million grant from the College in North Dakota. spring 2021. Native American Agriculture Fund (NAAF). The specifics of NAAF’s grant allocation There will be no homecoming football The NAAF investment, which was are: game this season, but other traditional announced Sept. 14, directly benefits 270 ·$4.8 million to Community homecoming events such as the parade, Tribal nations in 28 states and provides Development Financial Institutions for 15 the crowning of the Chief and Princess and access to credit for more than 2,300 Native projects alumni events will be held. Specific dates American farmers and ranchers. · $3.2 million to 501(c)3 Organizations will be announced at a later time. The money, granted to 101 Tribal for 40 projects The 50-yard line crowning of the governments, organizations, community · $2 million to Tribal Governments for university’s royalty, done by Seminole development financial institutions, traditional 22 projects princesses, won’t happen this fall as it foods projects and educational organizations, · $2 million to Educational Organizations usually does, but Miss Florida Seminole will help facilitate 112 projects with an aim for 11 projects Durante Blais-Billie is looking forward to to build a stronger food system in Indian · $3 million for 24 Traditional Foods, returning to the university in the spring and Country. Advocacy and Agriculture Extension seeing the celebration of its alumni. Florida Gulf Coast University is on projects. “The most heart-warming part of the the list of grantees in the educational “[This] investment reflects the values event for me is how the university, no matter organization category and will receive of the Native American Agriculture Fund,” how big, still feels like a tight-knit family approximately $400,000, which it will use Jim Laducer (Turtle Mountain Band of that is welcoming everyone back,” said for its agribusiness program and scholarships Chippewa), Chair of the NAAF Board of Blais-Billie, who is serving an extra year as for Native Americans. FGCU President Dr. Trustees, said in a statement. “Through Miss Florida Seminole along with Jr. Miss Mike Martin believes there haven’t been the 112 grants awarded [Sept. 14], we are Aubee Billie due to the cancellation of this enough Native American students in higher investing in our producers, our tribes, our year’s Princess Pageant. education. communities and our future. The impact Blais-Billie expects there to be many FGCU started its Center for of this investment will grow our Native changes for homecoming, including crowd Agribusiness in 2018 as a resource for the American foodways for generations to size and event schedules, but is confident agriculture industry in Southwest Florida. come.” everyone involved will be aware of The agribusiness minor offers students According to NAAF, it is the largest protecting not just FSU, but the Tallahassee Kevin Johnson the knowledge to support all the business philanthropic organization devoted solely community. For several years the Seminole Tribe’s princesses, such as Jr. Miss Aubee Billie in 2019, have crowned functions across the industry. to serving the Native American farming and During the pandemic, Blais-Billie has Florida State University’s winning royalty at halftime of the homecoming football game, but due to the “I hope the students will be the next ranching community. It provides grants to been dedicated to a project called Two- Covid-19 pandemic there will be no homecoming game this year. Homecoming activities have been generation of agriculture managers and eligible organizations for business assistance, Spirit Tuesdays, in which she and Jr. Miss pushed to the spring. leaders,” Martin said. “The Southwest agricultural education, technical support and Florida Seminole Aubee Billie, along with Florida agriculture business is invisible advocacy services to support Native farmers weekly contributors including Miccosukee changes in this chaotic time.” beginning of the coronavirus pandemic, the to most people driving along I-75, but it and ranchers. tribal member Houston Cypress, advocate Since the pandemic began, Billie’s role top priority of Florida State and the Alumni is economically important. Hopefully we “Our mission at the Native American for Two-Spirit affirmation through education as Seminole royalty has moved online to Association has been, and continues to can raise awareness and create some future Agriculture Fund is to make grants to and calls to action. social media where she tries to reach out to be, the health of its alumni, students, staff leaders.” sustainably build Tribal food economies. “My appearances since March have people through various apps and sites. and faculty. Over the past few months, The center’s advisory board includes This $15 million investment will not only been entirely virtual,” she said. “I’m thankful “It’s been a learning process,” she said. administrators have developed guidelines several current and former leaders in grow our economies, it will ensure that our I am still able to share the culture of my tribe “I miss seeing people in our community and that provide a healthier and safer campus agriculture businesses. Native food systems rebuild stronger than online and collaborate with people dedicated talking to people about who this little Tribe environment, including limitations on large Nearly all of the 101 grant recipients are ever through the pandemic,” said Janie Hipp to Indigenous healing. It means everything to is. It’s been very interesting.” gatherings. In order to mitigate the spread of in states west of the Mississippi River; FGCU (Chickasaw), CEO of NAAF. still be able to connect with tribal members The pandemic even compelled Billie’s COVID-19, the difficult decision was made is the lone recipient in Florida. In addition through groups like the Future Indigenous brother Eecho to postpone joining the Navy to postpone this year’s homecoming events. Leaders of South Florida.” for the time being, possibly for a few more “Homecoming is one of Florida State’s Aubee Billie is used to the upheavals months. She understands all the changes, most cherished traditions,” said FSU of the pandemic, but she has learned to take including at her school, are to keep people President John Thrasher. “Although we things in stride during this unprecedented safe. won’t be able to gather this fall, we hope to CSSS offers virtual year. “If we didn’t have technology, I don’t welcome friends and alumni back to campus “I don’t know what to expect and I don’t know what we would be doing,” she said. and celebrate everything we love about FSU think anyone really knows,” said Billie, a “Social interaction has been cut off, but we with students, faculty and staff this spring learning strategies senior at The Kings Academy in West Palm can still communicate.” — one of the most beautiful times of year in Beach. “It will be a little weird, that’s a FSU put out a statement explaining Tallahassee.” during webinar given. But we have to keep going with the its decision on homecoming: Since the

BY BEVERLY BIDNEY heartbeat. It helps us focus on the moment Staff Reporter and it brings down anxiety. It’s a way to train ourselves to shut our brains down. It helps children in this anxiety-ridden time.” The Center for Student Success and Free resources for other SEL games and Services (CSSS) shared tips, strategies and activities can be found on the CSSS website resources for virtual learning success during at csss.semtribe.com. a webinar Sept. 9 for parents and community The panel addressed issues parents may members. encounter, including what to do when a Since the coronavirus has changed young child is expected to sit at the computer the look and feel of education, a panel for hours without a break. Solutions included from the CSSS staff, Ahfachkee School, reaching out to teachers for alternatives, Pemayetv Emahakv Charter School, Center using paper and pencil instead of the for Behavioral Health (CBH), Tribal computer screen, standing up at the computer preschool and tutoring program discussed as opposed to always sitting, getting a large the challenges of attending school online. exercise ball to sit on, take a walk outside “We recognize the curve ball of the and just move around. pandemic,” said Morgan Griffin, CSSS “Maybe the child needs more exercise,” academic outreach advisor. “We are here to said Valerie Whiteside, Ahfachkee teacher support you during virtual learning and the coordinator. “Take a walk in the evening and rest of the school year.” play with family members.” A focus of the webinar was the Other suggestions include doing deep importance of Social Emotional Learning belly breathing, using squeeze balls, carving (SEL) which helps to develop resilience in out time for other mindful activities and students and builds a nurturing environment especially establishing a routine. in which they can thrive. The process helps “I believe brain breaks are important,” individuals set and maintain goals, build said Stephanie Tedders, PECS middle school relationships, learn to solve problems and instructional coach. “Sitting still can be other skills that are necessary from childhood punishing for kids.” through adulthood. “Use a timer,” added Shavonna Daniels, Courtesy photo “SEL gives us strategies and tools CSSS K-12 program manager. “It gives In some spare time during the pandemic, Jr. Miss Florida Seminole Aubee Billie raised a pair of pigs. They were found and rescued in the wild as babies, to manage strong emotions and make them something to look forward to and work so small at the time that they needed to be bottle-fed. responsible decisions,” said Brittany Henry, toward.” CBH AWARE mental wellness program Henry said there are plenty of teachable manager. “Students with those skills moments at home and encouraged parents to have positive self-esteem, good coping compliment their children on a job well done. Grants awarded to tribal colleges for mechanisms and a lower likelihood of “If they need a breather, allow them substance abuse. It plays a tremendous role to take one,” she said. “Give them small Head Start, Early Head Start in positive mental health.” activities they can look forward to. If they get The webinar touched on a host of ways frustrated, help them through it by helping FROM PRESS RELEASE to adjust to virtual learning. Practicing preschoolers most impacted by inequality,” assistants need to enroll in a program to them identify their emotions. Have them said Dr. Deborah Bergeron, director of the earn the minimum credential requirement. mindfulness, taking time to focus on the write three positive things about themselves.” present and be aware of the surroundings can Office of Head Start. Geographic barriers, lack of child care, Tracy Downing, PECS principal, is In September, the Health and Human In FY 2019, Head Start provided and lack of internet access are among the help quiet the “chatter in the mind, which can pleased with the way PECS’ virtual school Services’ Administration for Children and lead to frantic thoughts,” Henry said. funding to 154 American Indian tribal challenges faced by AIAN Head Start staff is going so far. Families (ACF) awarded $4 million to six governments or consortia grantees that needing to meet credential requirements. She said SEL “brain breaks” along “We have a 92% attendance rate every Tribal college and university Head Start with exercise can help focus the mind so served over 23,000 children and their The awardees are: day,” Downing said. “Our parents are (TCU-HS) partnership programs. This families. AIAN programs experience • Navajo Technical College students and adults can get through the day. educational partners with us. They are real funding will be used to increase the number One activity is an active body scan. With challenges employing staff who have both • Salish Kootenai College troopers and we appreciate them.” of qualified education staff working in early childhood education credentials • Stone Child College Corporation eyes closed, become aware of every part of Michael Giacchino, CSSS director, American Indian and Alaska Native (AIAN) the body starting with the toes and slowly as well as representative cultural and • Fond Du Lac Tribal and emphasized one of the department’s missions. Head Start and Early Head Start programs. language knowledge. Currently, 23 percent Community College reaching the top of the head. “We are here to assist you,” Giacchino “Educators who possess child “Feel the external things on your body,” of teachers in AIAN preschool classrooms • White Earth Tribal and Community said. “We are looking forward to a good development knowledge and relationship need to obtain degrees and 33 percent College Henry said. “Listen for sounds, be aware of school year regardless of the situation.” competencies, and who are culturally and smells, feel your stomach rumbling, feel your of Early Head Start teachers in AIAN • Cankdeska Cikana Community linguistically responsive to the children programs need to acquire at least a Child College. and families they serve, play a critical Development Associate (CDA) credential. role in supporting the infants, toddlers and An even larger number of preschool teacher 2B • The Seminole Tribune • September 30, 2020 ‘Positive’ education program for parenting picks up $700,000

BY DAMON SCOTT planning and design of the pilot families.” children. With teachings from our Elders, Staff Reporter study. The pilot study is meant One of NICWA’s key goals with the in conjunction with the PIP curriculum, as the next step toward a future curriculum is to prevent childhood abuse we are resilient and thriving families using A unique curriculum designed to national-level study. and neglect. “… [A]nd therefore to prevent our traditions and building our future support parenting among Native peoples has the placement of Native children in foster generations,” Debbie Hassler, vice chair received a new funding boost. Strong reputation care.” of the Cowlitz Tribal Council, said in a The “Positive Indian Parenting” For the next three years, the pilot study statement. program recently secured $700,000 in grant NICWA said in a statement will be conducted along with the nonprofit Deana Around Him (Cherokee Nation) money from the Doris Duke Charitable that PIP has been used across Child Trends, the Cowlitz Indian Tribe of said there is not a lot of curriculum designed Foundation for American Indian and Alaska Indian Country and First Nations Washington State, Seattle’s Casey Family for Native peoples that has been evaluated Native parents. in Canada for more than 30 years. Programs and DDCF. to meet evidence criteria for federal funding. The funds will be distributed over three It is based on a broad review of “The traditional teachings included in She is a senior research scientist at Child years to support a pilot evaluation study on literature on traditional Native PIP provided strengths to Native families for Trends and the co-principal investigator for PIP – which was developed by the National parenting practices, consultation centuries, but they were nearly lost before the PIP pilot study. Indian Child Welfare Association. with cultural experts, and Native being compiled into this curriculum,” Terry “This study is important because The new grant will help stakeholders community oral traditions Cross (Seneca) said. the new data will allow us to build upon to understand the impact the PIP curriculum about child rearing and child Cross is a curriculum author and the decades of practice-based evidence and has toward the goals of child and adult development. senior advisor and founder at NICWA. trust that Native communities have built for wellbeing. “… [W]ith an ultimate goal to In addition, NICWA said “While it has been recognized as a PIP,” Around Him said in a statement. “By establish PIP as an evidence-based practice thousands of parents and cultural best practice for decades, I’m expanding the evidence base for PIP, we under the Family First Prevention Services caregivers have been trained using pleased that the effectiveness of our work hope to improve access to new sources of Act.” PIP, and it has a strong reputation can now be tested,” he said. funding and the culturally relevant parenting among communities, practitioners Other Native leaders also reacted skills at the core of the curriculum.” The Family First legislation of 2018 NICWA overhauled federal child welfare financing. and policymakers as a “culturally positively to the new funding. More information is at nicwa.org. The support comes on the heels of a specific curriculum to improve the Terry Cross (Seneca) is the senior advisor and founder at “Restorative parenting practices $100,000 grant from DDCF to NICWA for wellbeing of Native children and NICWA. build strength in our communities and our

Pemayetv Emahakv Charter School ‘Gather’ film showcases students of the month - August 2020 revitalization of Native food sovereignty

BY MONICA WHITEPIGEON want it to prove what’s already known. I just Native News Online want it to help people get back to the way that it’s meant to be,” said Dubray about her research in the health and cultural benefits of grass-fed buffalo in South Dakota. For anyone interested in learning more Film director Sanjay Rawal (Food about the importance of food sovereignty, the Chains) examines the intrusiveness of production of culturally-appropriate foods colonialism and trauma associated with through ethically sustainable practices, the it while still offering hope by featuring recently released film “Gather” is an ideal Natives who are combating food deserts and introduction. long-term genocide. The 74-minute documentary focuses on In the documentary, Chef Craig spoke the diverse aspects and common obstacles to an audience of young farmers to educate tribal nations have had to overcome to reclaim and discuss Indigenous food systems. their food sovereignty rights. Throughout the “Seventy percent of all foods consumed feature, the audience is introduced to three around the world today originated by protagonists from a variety of Indigenous Indigenous peoples of the Americas. And backgrounds, including chef and nutritional that’s some of the information that we want recovery clinic owner Nephi Craig (White to instill in our own people,” said Craig. Mountain Apache Nation), environmental Released this past summer, “Gather” activists Ancestral Guard from the Yurok is receiving high acclaim and was recently Nation, and aspiring scientist Elsie Dubray chosen as a critic’s pick by The New York (Cheyenne River Sioux Nation). Times. Common Sense Media, a nonprofit The film starts with a message of hope media reviewer, gave the film 4 out of 5 as master forager Twila Cassadore (San and praised it as “a thought-provoking Carlos Apache) and her granddaughter documentary that offers a glimmer of hope gather ingredients from their ancestral lands for positive change, not only for Indigenous in Arizona. people, but also for a world seemingly on “It’s just about reconnecting people to the brink of environmental catastrophe.” who they are, and it starts off small. It’s like For featured activist, Samuel Gensaw planting that little seed,” said Cassadore in (Yurok), passing along cultural knowledge the film. and showing respect for wildlife will help in Produced by First Nations Film the recovery process for future generations. Development Institute, “Aquaman” star “The industrial revolution is over. Now, Jason Momoa and filmmaker Sterlin Harjo if we want to survive, if we want to carry (Seminole, Muskogee), “Gather” showcases on life on Earth, we need to be a part of the how the history of colonialism detrimentally restorative revolution,” Gensaw said. affected Native food systems as well as The film’s website offers options to its correlation to mental well-being. The arrange screenings for virtual audiences film touches on the lack of accessibility along with post-screening Zoom discussions. Book about Native American to healthier and culturally-significant Streaming options are available on multiple food options, such as the diminishment platforms such as iTunes, Amazon Prime of Klamath River’s salmon population in and Vimeo-on-Demand. dispossession up for national award Northern California and the near extinction of bison populations. This article appears on “If my research can do anything, I don’t nativenewsonline.net. BY LEE SHEARER data mining and predictive analytics that are away from them and put into the hands of OnlineAthens.com so much a part of life today. white land speculators. Much of it became Saunt, a native of San Francisco, the cotton plantations run with slave labor has been a faculty member in the UGA that were foundation of the economy in A University of Georgia history department of history since 1998. He has Southern states. professor’s book is in the running to win one been the head of the department and now Many Natives were forced to pay for of the country’s top literary prizes. holds the title of Richard B. Russell professor their own removal, Saunt told Georgia Claudio Saunt’s “Unworthy Republic: in American history. He is also co-director Public Broadcasting’s Virginia Prescott in The Dispossession of Native Americans and of the university’s Center for Virtual History a recent Atlanta History Center “Virtual the Road to Indian Territory” is one of 10 and associate director of UGA’s Institute of Author Talk.” books longlisted for the 2020 National Book Native American Studies. Poring over records that no one might Award for Nonfiction. “Unworthy Republic,” his fourth book, have looked at for a century or more, he Publishers sent the National Book is a “haunting story of racialized cruelty and found among other revelations detailed Foundation more than 600 nominations for greed,” according to reviewer Caitlin Fitz of records of the invoices federal bill collectors the award this year. Five finalists are to be The Atlantic, and “one of the most important sent, charging Native Americans for things revealed Oct. 6, and the winner named in books published on U.S. history in recent such as postage and horse feed for Indian November. years,” according to Sven Beckert, Laird agents.By the 1860 census, there was not one Saunt faces tough competition, professor of history at Harvard University. Native person listed as living in Alabama, he including books such as Pulitzer Prize It tells the story of the forcible removal said. winner Isabel Wilkerson’s “Caste: The of Native Americans from the Southern Before expulsion — the famous “Trail Origins of Our Discontents,” about the states in the first part of the 19th century of Tears” was just one part of it — Natives United States’ hidden caste system; “The under the Indian Removal Act, a policy owned about half the land of Alabama, two- Dead Are Arising: The Life of Malcolm X” pushed by Northern bankers and Southern thirds of what would become Mississippi by Les and Tamara Payne; and Jill Lepore’s cotton planters as well as President Andrew and about a fifth of Georgia, Saunt found. “If Then: How the Simulmatics Corporation Jackson. Invented the Future,” about a failed Cold The result was millions of acres of land This article appears on OnlineAthens. War precursor of the computer modeling, owned by Native Americans being taken com. UCLA Law receives $15M donation to boost Native American law and policy

FROM UCLA NEWSROOM will receive full-tuition scholarships that Native American Day is celebrated, on Sept. will cover all three years of law school at 25. UCLA Law, which is well established as the “Tribal law is a cornerstone of Native UCLA School of Law has received a nation’s premier law school for Indian law. Americans’ quest for equality and inclusion $15 million donation from the Federated “This is one of the largest gifts to within the U.S. justice system,” said Indians of Graton Rancheria to advance the support scholarships in UCLA history, and Federated Indians of Graton Rancheria study and practice of Native American law. we are incredibly grateful to the Federated Tribal Chairman Greg Sarris, who received The gift is the largest-ever contribution that Indians of Graton Rancheria for this his undergraduate degree from UCLA and a tribe has made to a law school and one visionary investment, which bolsters our returned to teach English for more than a of the biggest in history from a tribe to a university’s longtime commitment to service decade. “UCLA’s commitment to educating university. The funds will be dedicated to in Indian country and the success of Native and preparing the next generation of tribal scholarships for Native American and other people everywhere,” said UCLA Chancellor legal advocates is personally known to me, students interested in pursuing careers as Gene Block. “This gift allows us to recruit as an alumnus and former UCLA professor. tribal legal advocates. the very best candidates to pursue their legal We hope this gift will begin the drive for The gift will create the Graton Scholars education at UCLA and prepare for careers equity for our people in our native land. It’s program at UCLA Law’s Native Nations as impactful advocates for Native Nations.” particularly fitting that our announcement Law and Policy Center. Graton Scholars The announcement of the gift, which is coincides with this Friday’s California will be among the best and brightest Native also among the largest contributions to the Native American Day, which celebrates and students and others interested in pursuing law school in its seven-decade history, came honors the historic and cultural contributions Courtesy photo careers as tribal advocates. Each year, they just days before the 53rd annual California by California Native Americans.” The film poster for ‘Gather,’ which explores the importance of Native food sovereignty. 3B • The Seminole Tribune • September 30, 2020 From urban Native conference addresses campuses to challenges of tourism during pandemic reservations, Native American

BY BEVERLY BIDNEY “If you are a tourism enterprise, your want to give visitors more than one attraction nationwide has reported a collective loss of students feel Staff Reporter world has been turned upside down over per destination and partnerships do that.” nearly 300,000 jobs and an economic loss of the last six months,” said Anna Barrera, a “You can cooperate with your $4.4 billion. As casinos begin to reopen, the Covid-19’s reach research scholar at GWU’s International competition in the international arena,” new normal of safety measures for guests Cultural tourism is helping to pave Institute of Tourism. added Julie Heizer, deputy director of the and employees have been implemented. BY MATT HOFFMAN the way to economic recovery for Native Travelers are staying closer to home, U.S. Department of Commerce, National Some leaders in the industry see this as the Billings (Mont.) Gazette American tribes, as was clearly demonstrated so local and regional residents will likely be Travel and Tourism Office. “You can’t go it right time to redefine their marketing efforts. during the 22nd annual American Indian the majority of visitors. Barrera suggested alone unless you are one of those really big Laura Stensgar, CEO of the Coeur Tourism Conference. adjusting to that reality by marketing to that guns, like Las Vegas or New York City.” d’Alene Casino in Idaho, outlined what Johnny Talawyma was ready to stride About 800 attendees participated in demographic. If large groups are the norm, Know your markets and how they want they have done since the pandemic began in across the stage to receive his bachelors the virtual conference. Held online Sept. think about featuring activities and tours for to travel, Weigt advised. March. The casino, its resort and golf course degree diploma last spring. 14-18, the theme of the conference was small and family groups. “It’s foolhardy to think someone is usually have about 900 employees and 850 It’s been a long journey for the 38-year- “One Country, Many Nations.” The five “We need to understand the new going to travel from overseas just to come in the off-season. old Montana State University Billings days of sessions revealed similarities in customer,” said Talia Salem, of The Urban to your destination,” said Tony Lyle, VP of “Gaming is an effective tool to generate student who grew up on the Northern the challenges facing each tribe due to the Nomad, a tourism consulting firm. “People tourism development, Lake Tahoe Visitors jobs for tribal members and revenue for Cheyenne Reservation. He wanted a chance coronavirus pandemic. need a break that won’t make them more Authority. “They are coming to experience tribal social programs,” Stensgar said. “We not only to celebrate himself, but to set an “The conference was a great way to nervous. Marry health and safety with the different parts of the U.S. They don’t have have been able to provide for our people. We example for younger people in his tribe. get people together to talk about how the visitor experience. Shift to live virtual much time; they like to be given ideas.” are a tribe with a casino, not a casino with Covid-19 changed that, like it has so pandemic affected cultural tourism in North tourism. Artisans, chefs and storytellers are Lyle suggested reaching out to state a tribe.” many other things. Graduation seems almost America,” said Paul Backhouse, senior taking their in-person tours and turning them tourism offices and local convention and Cultural arts are incorporated into the distant now for Talawyma. His uncle died director of the Seminole Tribe’s Heritage into a live online experience.” visitors bureaus, who promote destinations resort’s design with murals, sculpture and after contracting Covid-19. Other relatives and Environment Resources Office. “We together. beadwork prominently displayed. battled severe symptoms. Talawyma himself aren’t any different than anyone else; we Native architecture “They are all hungry for content and “We have a beautiful story and we contracted the disease and recovered. have all been affected by it.” information,” he said. “If you don’t tell want to share it,” Stensgar said. “But we are Native American students already face The opening session featured keynote During a session on how Native them, they won’t know about you. People careful with how much we share. There is a barriers in the pursuit of higher education. As speaker Amber Torres, chairwoman of the architectural design engages visitors, want more than just the iconic American fine line about how much to share about our Covid-19 has disproportionately sickened Walker River Paiute Tribe located about JohnPaul Jones (Oklahoma Choctaw/ destinations. It’s worked really well for us.” traditions; we consulted with our elders.” and killed Native Americans, Talawyma and 100 miles southeast of Reno, Nevada. The Cherokee) discussed how he incorporates Tour operators are another efficient The casino’s cultural tourism program other students have worked to maintain the reservation consists of about 325,000 acres Native values into his designs. Jones designed way to reach the international market, as are has been a success since its inception about communities they have, both on campus and in a high desert river valley, used mostly for the Smithsonian’s National Museum of the familiarization tours for the media. four years ago. Activities include kayak and on the reservation. grazing and some ranching, surrounded by American Indian in Washington, D.C., and “We have a lot of things for them canoe tours, an Indian cliff hike, bicycle As he’s continued to work toward a mountains, desert lakes and marshland. other cultural centers including the Santa (reporters) to do and they write articles,” said and boat tours, a silver mine tour, moccasin master’s degree, Talawyma is also trying to The tribe has 2,300 members, about Ynez Chumash Cultural Center. Sharon Calcote, director of the Louisiana workshop, eagle aviary tour, the last battle care for family members. When he visits the 1,200 live on the reservation. It is 40 miles Jones spoke about huge murals of Office of Tourism, Louisiana Byways. “We tour and an authentic cultural dinner with reservation, he loads up with supplies for from the nearest grocery store and 100 miles Native Americans in Seattle, which attract find articles are a great way to drive traffic, drum and dancers. The program results in them like cold medicine and tissues. from the nearest hospital. people from all over. even better than advertising.” longer guest stays at the resort and it attracts Shannon Birdinground is Talawyma’s “We are a small tribe located in the “It’s all about identity,” Jones said. “As new groups. niece, a fellow student, and a Northern great basin of northern Nevada,” Torres said. Native people, we have woven our lives Tourism from the lens “Cultural tours have worked out Cheyenne tribal member. Both are part of an “The past seven months have been the most into the non-native world for more than of a tribal leader very well for us, it brings in regional and urban American Indian population that often trying times tribes have faced with the virus 500 years. It’s time to reestablish our own international tourists,” Stensgar said. “As has strong ties to reservations while living and lives at stake. We have fared better than identity. You can do it through tourism and Fawn Sharp, president of the National a casino resort, we want a return on our in predominantly white cities. They’ve most by taking fast action and making hard activism. Stand inside your indigenous ways Congress of American Indians and former investment but it’s also great PR to share experienced the Covid-19 pandemic through decisions to ensure compliance to protect and not in some other tourist effort. Native president of the Quinault Indian Nation, culture.” both lenses. our community, children and elders.” tourism can really benefit and strengthen the shared her perspective on tourism, climate Stensgar said it was surreal and sad to Birdinground recalls reading about The tribe closed the reservation to all community.” and leadership. walk through the empty casino and parking the risk to Native Americans early in the non-residents, including members who lived “We are facing apocalyptic challenges lot after it closed in March. She knows pandemic. off the reservation. It shut all non-essential U.S. Congresswoman including a firestorm of political, social how important the revenue is to the tribe. “People were saying, Native Americans businesses. It opened a community store Deb Haaland address and economic upheaval,” she said. “While The tribal council established a task force were at higher risk, I saw so many comments so residents would have access to produce, it is so dark and uncertain, one thing is for and looked at ways to open safely; they on social media saying, how?” meat and other grocery items. “I’m pleased that today many Native certain: we have each other, our traditions reviewed the CDC guidelines, the Wynn Joe McGeshick is MSUB’s tribal liaison But the biggest hit the tribe took was American entrepreneurs and professionals and the spiritual dimension of our being. No Resorts protocols and their own health and a Native American Studies instructor. closing the Weber Reservoir, its main are experiencing a renaissance and sharing matter where you go in Indian Country you center experts. They reopened May 1 with He gave a daily lecture over the past week as tourist attraction and one of its largest forms their work with the world,” said U.S. can hear that drumbeat, the heartbeat of who a mask mandate and other safety measures. part of campus events for Native American of revenue. Fishing, camping, off road Congresswoman Deb Haaland (Laguna we are today.” “People want to get out,” Stensgar said. Week, “Covid-19 in Indian Country.” recreation and other activities are popular at Pueblo), representative from New Mexico’s Sharp believes the country is being “We are social people and it’s hard to stay It went far beyond the sterility of the reservoir. The tribe hired staff to monitor First Congressional District. “Poverty and tested and that ancient values can rise above confined. As tribal people, we have always the daily map updates from state health it day and night, but outsiders defied the unemployment are nearly triple the national the political fray. persevered and adjusted to our environment.” officials, which show alarmingly high case closure order and damaged signs and some average. We can grow jobs through Native “We need to be the leaders our ancestors Casino gaming also drives the business figures in counties like Big Horn, Rosebud areas. American businesses, but often resources hoped we would be,” she said. “This time is of tourism at the Cherokee Nation of and Roosevelt. The map doesn’t plot “It was very disheartening,” Torres aren’t available to Native communities, gifted to us; we are born, ready and prepared Oklahoma. About 10 years ago the tribe reservations. said. “They feel it is their right to access especially during the Covid shutdown and for this moment. This year has exposed what began a strategic investment in cultural It’s a “virgin soil epidemic,” he said, our land whenever. Entering our reservation lack of broadband access.” we have known for centuries; we knew there tourism and invested in historic and cultural something that has ravaged American Indian is a privilege, not a right and needs to be As a young single mother, Haaland was a day of reckoning coming. This country assets. Today they have six museums, 5,000 tribes since European explorers landed in respected. The almighty dollar isn’t the most started and ran a salsa company, but found so desperately needs the values we hold as pieces of Cherokee art and more than 100 what they thought was a New World. important thing now.” limited access to resources for Native Native people. How we handle this moment programs per year located on more than Death toll estimates from European Like many tribes that depend on communities. Those barriers compelled is the gift we will give to future generations 66,000 acres in the eastern Oklahoma diseases range between 90% and 50% of the tourism, the Walker River Paiute are looking her in 2019 to introduce the Native and leaders.” foothills of the Ozark mountains. original human inhabitants of the Americas, for innovative ways to market its attractions American Business Incubators Program Millions of sockeye salmon used to “Visitors get a glimpse of the Cherokee who had no immunity to smallpox, influenza online. Act, which will increase access to capital crowd the Quinault River, but a few years story,” said Travis Owens, director of strains and other diseases. “We need to be prepared for everything through the Department of the Interior for ago there were only a few. The Quinault Cultural Tourism and Community Relations The western institutions that followed because we are a second thought to the business development and growth in Native Tribe had to close the fisheries. Sharp flew at Cherokee Nation Businesses. “The idea European settlement to control disease federal government,” Torres said. “We have communities. The bill passed the House over the source of the river, the Anderson was to build a hub; we have a high density of — hospitals, vaccinations, public health to be sustainable, take care of our own and of Representatives and the Senate and is glacier, and saw only a mudpile. She became cultural sites near our capital of Tahlequah.” measures — have never served Native continue to stay resilient. Our people’s lives awaiting the President’s signature to become a fervent climate change advocate. In March, all those sites closed and they Americans as well as whites, McGeshick depend on it.” law. Sharp attended a meeting at the United are figuring out how to operate in a Covid said. “Tribal tourism is key to financial Nations to talk to potential partners outside world. The casinos opened in June and the It’s not so much that the pandemic Adapting to the pandemic prosperity on tribal lands and spills over of the U.S. about opening up traditional culture programs in August. A mask mandate created inequities; it exposed them. to agriculture, food, artisan works, wildlife ceremonies, songs and dances to attract is in place along with health screening, He highlighted entrenched disparities Other sessions also focused on resilience preservation and self-determination,” tourism. temperature checks, strict social distancing in housing, health care, and transportation and practical guidance. Before Covid-19, Haaland said. “Financial tools and tax “In that moment, I realized the value and cleaning protocols across all properties. that have all contributed to the pandemic’s tribal tourism was a promising approach to barriers are fundamental issues we need to and the role of tourism,” she said. “It was “People have an understanding of severity on reservations. sustaining economic development, access work on in Congress. We need to move to an opportunity to take the best of North masks; we made it part of our advertising,” Even access to water is variable, though to basic services and responsibly manage uplift business in small sectors, especially America and share it with the world. What a Owens said. “We want to keep visitors safe. more reliable than desert communities like resources. During the pandemic, tribes have Native tourism.” powerful industry this is.” We also created virtual tour experiences with the Navajo Reservation. McGeshick showed been opening cautiously since government Sharp has met with Congressional 3D scans. All are available on our website.” photos from a water hauling station on the assistance protocols are not necessarily International visitors leaders and said they realize the imbalanced Tribal destinations have shown Fort Peck Reservation, where he grew up. adapted to Indigenous communities, economy in tribal nations. She made it clear resilience during the pandemic, by using “One of the best mitigation efforts is, according to Seleni Matus, executive Planning for the return of international they need to uphold their trust responsibility virtual or smaller in-person tours, as they wash your hands. We take that for granted,” director of the International Institute of visitors entails more than just printing and respect sovereignty, instead of strive to retain important tourism revenue. he said. Tourism at George Washington University. brochures and hoping for the best. Tribes continuing to oppress tribes. Carrie Dilley, visitor services and Indian Health Service facilities are “Indigenous communities celebrate must tell a compelling story and establish “I believe we have political leverage development manager at Ah-Tah-Thi- often distrusted and inadequate, he said, their resilience and are remembering how partnerships with other tourist destinations now and the whole world sees how exposed Ki Museum in Big Cypress, attended the and require long trips from some parts of much they have overcome through history,” in the region. and vulnerable we are economically,” Sharp conference and was impressed with the reservations. said Matus. “It is time bring back that “Pre-pandemic we all wished we had said. “Tourism is one of those pieces that if ‘outside the museum/attraction mindset.’ “Even if you do have symptoms, even resilience. It’s clear we are in very different more time to do the things we couldn’t get we can grow, develop and support, will be “I really enjoyed how they were able if you do come down with Covid, where are times now and the playbook that once to,” said Lisa Weigt, principal, Destinations the factor that sees us through this crisis.” to weave in discussion on job development you going to go, what are you going to do?” existed isn’t fully applicable now.” by Design in Oklahoma, who thinks and sustainability,” Dilley said. “I enjoyed he said. Diversifying products and services international tourists may come back in mid- Casinos and Culture learning how other Tribes capitalize on their Advice about isolation and social during the pandemic is important to 2021. “Establish partnerships with someone own tourism ventures and also hearing about distancing flies in the face of communal attracting visitors. who offers your same level of service. You During the pandemic, tribal gaming shared challenges.” traditions. “We live constantly by each other, close to each other, with each other,” said McGeshick. McGeshick grew up on the Fort Peck Reservation, with his eight siblings in a one bedroom house. When he talks about structural challenges on reservations that make it difficult to control Covid-19, he’s lived it. “You can’t self-isolate if you don’t have the room,” he said. The new sweat lodge at MSUB’s Native American Achievement center was used 15 times before Covid-19 restrictions shut it down. The center itself had to close for two weeks already this year. The U.S. has wide achievement gaps between white and Native American students. Montana’s universities are no different. Native American students are less likely to enroll in universities or graduate. One of the largest challenges is culture shock. Talawyma, a self-described “reservation boy coming to the city,” was overwhelmed by Billings and the campus environment at first. He’d had an early crack at college, attending a small school in Kansas. He developed substance use problems, which derailed his education. He’s now clean and works as an addiction counselor, and spent two years at Chief Dull Knife College in Lame Deer before attending MSUB.

screenshots (2) F See COVID-19 on page 6B The pandemic’s impact on Native American casinos, such as the Coeur d’Alene Tribe’s casino in Idaho, left, and cultural tourism were among items discussed at the American Indian Tourism Conference. 4B • The Seminole Tribune • September 30, 2020 Six feature and episodic fellows Ground broken for veterans memorial selected for 2020 Sundance Institute Indigenous Intensive honoring American Indians, Alaska Natives and Pacific Islanders SUNDANCE INSTITUTE’S INDIGENOUS PROGRAM

2020 Episodic Fellows: BY KEVIN JOHNSON LOS ANGELES — A new group of Senior Editor six Indigenous storytellers participated in Jonny Cournoyer (Rosebud Sioux– August in the Sundance Institute Indigenous Sicangu Lakota) Intensive. Presented by WarnerMedia 150, Blake Pickens (Chickasaw Nation) A memorial in California honoring the Intensive was held digitally on Sundance Shaandiin Tome (Diné Nation) American Indian, Alaska Native and Pacific Co//ab, the Sundance Institute’s digital Islander veterans is one step closer to learning platform. 2020 Creative Advisors: becoming reality. The weeklong program focused on Michelle Latimer (Métis/Algonquin) Organizers held a groundbreaking launching the development process of the Sally Riley (Wiradjuri Nation) ceremony Sept. 25, which was also California storytellers’ projects under the guidance of Heather Rae Native American Day. acclaimed International Creative Advisors Effie Brown A memorial statue built by sculptor A. and Sundance Institute’s Indigenous Sterlin Harjo (Seminole/Muscogee Thomas Schomberg, famous for creating the Program, headed by N. Bird Runningwater Creek) bronze Rocky Balboa statue from the movie (Cheyenne/Mescalero Apache). Sierra Ornales (Diné Nation). “Rocky,” is set to be installed on a site at “We were excited to create a new About Sundance Institute’s Indigenous Riverside National Cemetery in Riverside. support model in our program to work more Program “Today is California Native American deeply with a new generation of artists on The Indigenous Program champions Day and there is no better way to honor their Feature Film and Episodic projects,” Indigenous independent storytelling artists American Indian Veterans than with this Runningwater said. “We hope to expand through residency labs, fellowships, public groundbreaking ceremony,” U.S. Department our community’s work in these forms and programming, and a year-round continuum of of Veterans Affairs Secretary Robert beyond while continuing to nurture their creative, financial, and tactical support. The Wilkie said at the ceremony. “More Native exceptional and distinct voices.” Program conducts outreach and education Americans per capita serve our country than “The August intensive was amazing,” to identify a new generation of Indigenous any other demographic. This memorial will said 2020 Feature Fellow Erin Lau (Kanaka voices, connecting them with opportunities honor their sacrifice and service in the United Maoli). “I’ve had the pleasure of working to develop their storytelling projects, and States military.” with many wonderful people in this industry; bringing them and their work back to Organizers said this is the VA’s first however, every time I have the opportunity Indigenous lands. At its core, the Program major monument honoring American Indian, to take part in one of Sundance’s Indigenous seeks to inspire self-determination among Alaska Native and Pacific Islander veterans. programs, it renews my spirit like nothing Indigenous filmmakers and communities by The memorial consists of a plaza and else.” centering Indigenous people in telling their walkway centered around the statue, known “I feel incredibly honored to be included own stories. as “The Gift.” The twice life-sized bronze alongside these other talented Indigenous The Sundance Institute Indigenous statue represents an American Indian cloaked artists,” said 2020 Episodic Fellow Blake Program is supported by The Andrew W. in an American Flag. It stands 12-feet tall and Pickens (Chickasaw Nation). “As a Mellon Foundation, John D. and Catherine weighs 1.5 tons. The memorial is intended to comedian, it’s tough during this time of T. MacArthur Foundation, Oneida Indian honor fallen heroes and living veterans, as COVID where there are no stages to perform Nation, Academy of Motion Picture Arts well as educate the public about the military on. But being able to develop a project in and Sciences, John S. and James L. Knight contributions of American Indians. a space made for us gave me a platform to Foundation, Nia Tero Foundation, SAGindie, Construction on the memorial is expected work on my comedy and hone my craft. Bird Indigenous Screen Office, New Zealand Film to be completed in the next two years. The and his team are amazing, and I’m forever Commission, Jenifer and Jeffrey Westphal, memorial is being paid for with funds raised grateful for all of their support.” Indigenous Media Initiatives, Felix Culpa, by the Riverside National Cemetery Support “There’s a shorthand and an Sarah Luther, Susan Shilliday, and an Committee along with substantial funding understanding between us — it’s difficult to anonymous donor. from Southern California tribes. put into words how deeply it fills my soul To find out more about opportunities for “While this memorial honors American to create and dream with other Indigenous Indigenous storytellers, visit sundance.org/ Indian, Alaska Native and Pacific Islander artists,” added Lau. “The program helped me programs/indigenous-program veterans from across the nation, it is a to raise the quality of my work, but also to stay great honor that it is being installed here in rooted in who I am and the responsibilities I About Sundance Institute Southern California at the Riverside National carry as a Native Hawaiian woman.” Cemetery,” said Ken Ramirez, chairman of In 1981, Robert Redford founded the San Manuel Band of Mission Indians, 2020 Feature Fellows: Sundance Institute to foster independence one of the major contributors to the project. Erin Lau (Kanaka Maoli) and provide a safe harbor for risk-taking new “With so many tribes here in the Inland Elle-Máijá Tailfeathers (Blackfoot/ voices. In the organization’s inaugural year, Empire and San Diego County, it is sure to Sámi) 15 emerging filmmakers were invited to become a revered destination for many proud Erica Tremblay (Seneca-Cayuga/ Sundance Resort in the mountains of Utah to Americans who understand the significant Wyandotte Nations) develop their original independent projects contribution that Native Americans had in with mentorship from leading writers, armed conflicts.” directors, and actors. To learn more about the American Indian Veterans Memorial, contact Riverside Michael Campbell, U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs National Cemetery Executive Director Peter A groundbreaking ceremony was held Sept. 25 in Riverside, California, at the site of a memorial that Young at (951) 653-8417 or visit www. will honor American Indian, Alaska Native and Pacific Islander veterans. facebook.com/NatCemRiverside.

(Right) Michael Campbell, U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs; (below) courtesy rendering

At right, this statue, built by sculptor A. Thomas Schomberg, will be the focal point of the memorial being built in Riverside, California, that honors American Indian, Alaska Native and Pacific Islander veterans. Schomberg is the sculptor who made the Rocky Balboa statue in Philadelphia. Below, a rendering of the American Indian Veterans Memorial.

Courtesy photo Erin Lau (Kanaka Maoli)

Courtesy photo Sterlin Harjo (Seminole Nation/Muscogee Creek)

Courtesy photo Shaandiin Tome (Diné Nation) 5B • The Seminole Tribune • September 30, 2020 Sports C Okeechobee’s Carriss Johns rushes for TD in first high school game

BY KEVIN JOHNSON Senior Editor

MOORE HAVEN — Carriss Johns didn’t waste any time to make an impact for the Okeechobee High School football team. After providing plenty of effective blocks out of the backfield throughout the night, Johns capped a memorable debut in his first high school game by scoring the first time he touched the ball. Johns, a starting freshman running back, rushed for a 6-yard touchdown in the Brahmans’ 32-6 season opening night victory against host Moore Haven on Sept. 11. “It felt great. It felt amazing,” said Johns, who is the son of Seminole tribal member Stephanie Johns. Johns’ touchdown came with 7:42 left in the fourth quarter and gave Okeechobee a commanding 26-6 lead. He took the handoff and showed impressive speed to the right Kevin Johnson side as he eluded defenders on his way to the end zone. Brothers Ramone Baker (9) and Pherian Baker (65) take the field for the Moore Haven High football team in its opener Sept. 11 against Okeechobee. Okeechobee coach Ty Smith wasn’t surprised by what he saw, having been a coach on an Okeechobee youth football team that included his son and Johns. Tribe/PECS connections prevalent “I knew what kind of dynamic player he is,” Smith said. “It was the other (Okeechobee Kevin Johnson High) coaches who never got a chance to see on Moore Haven High football team him play. He made a quick impact for us, Okeechobee High School freshman running back immediately. The other coaches, as we went Carriss Johns has plenty of reasons to smile after the Brahmans defeated Moore Haven, 32-6, on BY KEVIN JOHNSON into our (preseason) meetings, said this kid is Sept. 11. Johns scored a touchdown in his first Senior Editor really the truth. I said ‘yes, he is.’” game. Scoring a touchdown wasn’t the only aspect of Johns’ game that impressed Smith in the win against Moore Haven. The 5-foot- “Even at the age he is at – he’ll be 14 soon MOORE HAVEN — In recent years, 8, 165-pounder did a solid job without the – and him being a freshman, you hear his the Pemayetv Emahakv Charter School, on ball. mouth in practice and you hear him saying the Brighton Reservation, has served as a “He blocked very well,” Smith said. ‘we’ve got to get this going…” feeder of sorts for the Moore Haven High “I’m happy for that. For him being a 13-year- Johns said facing some Moore Haven School football program. old freshman and to play the way he did players who are former schoolmates of his A big reason – or three big reasons – tonight, we’re just looking forward to him from Pemayetv Emahakv Charter School Moore Haven surged to prominence in recent throughout the rest of his career and playing – where he attended before transferring to seasons as one of Florida’s best small school that way and stepping his game up.” another school – provided an extra boost. success stories were three massive Native Despite his age, Johns also brings a “It felt like I had to be more competitive, American linemen who came out of PECS. leadership aspect to the squad. that I had more of an urge to win. I’m friendly But the days of the offensive line being filled “He’s a natural leader,” Smith said. with all of them,” he said. by giants Conner Thomas and Andrew Fish, both of whom graduated two years ago, and Robert Harris, who graduated in the spring, are gone. They took a lot of size – about a combined 1,000 pounds – with them. PECS is still well represented on this year’s edition of the Terriers with five graduates on the squad, including the Seminole Tribe’s Ramone Baker, Pherian Baker and Jaytron Baker, Seminole Nation of Oklahoma’s Donovan Harris, and Wyatt Kevin Johnson Hines, the son of Seminole tribal member At 6-foot-2, 230 pounds, tight end Jaytron Baker (18) brings size to Moore Haven’s offense. and former Moore Haven player Marvin Hines. brother Pherian brings size to the line. Okeechobee. He’s a force on the basketball Most of the group saw varsity time last He didn’t see a lot of playing time against court for the Terriers and has the potential to season, but now they’re a year older and Okeechobee, but he’s only a sophomore. do the same on the football field, likely in a with plenty of holes to fill due to graduation, “He has the tools to help us on both the defensive role. they’ll be counted on even more so this offensive and defensive lines and gives us “He has a genuine passion for the game season. depth at those positions,” Burnside said. [and] is another one that will help us at In the season opener, versatile Ramone Although not a brother of Ramone multiple spots,” Burnside said. Baker saw the most playing time of the and Pherian, Jaytron Baker also brings After spending his freshman season in group. An agile 6-foot-1, Baker possesses much needed size to the team. He’s a solid a backup role last year, Wyatt Hines had the foot speed and size that can help on 6-foot-2, 230 pound tight end and outside his first career start at quarterback against both sides of the ball. He played outside linebacker who provided blocking that paved Okeechobee. The offense didn’t take to the linebacker all night, saw action at fullback the way for the team’s only touchdown. He air too often as it tried to establish a running and played on special teams. He helped pave also adds toughness that he’s garnered from attack. Hines encountered several high snaps the way on rushes and even took a handful of years of competition in another physically- – some he snagged and some went over his handoffs, which included a few strong runs demanding sport: bull riding. head.. on the team’s only scoring drive of the night “Another big, physical kid,” Burnside Burnside said the 6-foot-1, 165-pound in the third quarter. said. “He has the ability to play some Hines, who also handled punting duties, is Moore Haven coach Brent Burnside effective tight end for us and will be a factor still developing and has plenty of potential. described Baker as a “a naturally bigger, on the defensive side once he gets more “We’re hoping to bring him along to Kevin Johnson physical kid. Still raw with football talent. experience.” have a successful future with us,” he said. Okeechobee running back Carriss Johns (1) blocks Moore Haven linebacker Ramone Baker. Will be able to help us in multiple ways.” Donovan Harris, a 6-foot-1, 220-pound At 6-foot, 305 pounds, Baker’s younger senior linebacker, wasn’t in uniform against F See MOORE HAVEN on page 6B

FGCU athletics to hold fundraiser and auction

FROM PRESS RELEASE Alico Arena due to the CDC social distancing guidelines, and the increased costs involved with COVID-19 testing, along with other FORT MYERS — To help offset the safety implementations has presented an financial impact of COVID-19, the FGCU unprecedented budget deficit in excess of $2 Department of Athletics announced today the million. launch of The Sustaining Flight Fundraiser “At this critical juncture, we are asking and Auction (www.fgcuathletics.com/ for the continued tremendous support of sustainingflight). The fundraising campaign FGCU Athletics by the Southwest Florida will help mitigate operational revenue loss Community and beyond,” Associate and the additional expenses incurred as a Athletics Director for Advancement Graham result of COVID-19 protocols. All funds Diemer said. “The challenges presented by raised during the campaign will go to support the pandemic and the pivot that we had to areas that directly impact student-athletes. make to the virtual space for the auction In lieu of hosting the annual Night at are speed bumps. However, the investments the Nest gala this year, one of FGCU’s most made by our donors, corporate sponsors and successful fundraising events, the department auction item donors and bidders, will help will be hosting a virtual, online auction from ensure that our student-athletes experience Nov. 30 through Dec. 4. Fans and supporters opportunities and experiences to be will be able to bid on exclusive memorabilia, successful in competition, the classroom and trip packages, unique event experiences and as future community leaders.” more. For more information or to make a The spring cancellation of events, gift, contact Associate AD for Development including March Madness, the postponement Graham Diemer at 239-590-7117 or of fall athletics events, decreased capacity in [email protected].

Kevin Johnson Sophomore quarterback Wyatt Hines gets ready to take a snap as Moore Haven began its 2020 season Sept. 11 at home against Okeechobee. 6B • The Seminole Tribune • September 30, 2020 Brady Keeper, from from Pimicikamak Cree Iroquois Nationals lacrosse Nation, re-signs with Florida Panthers team to compete in 2022 World

BY KEVIN JOHNSON Keeper didn’t play again in the series, but Games after initial exclusion Senior Editor he made a favorable impression on Panthers coach Joel Quenneville. BY KA’NHEHSÍ:IO DEER Japan and the United States are the eight “I thought he had a good game today,” SUNRISE — Brady Keeper will CBC News teams competing. Panthers coach Joel Quenneville said after World Lacrosse said the teams were remain a member of the Florida Panthers game 2 in a story on NHL.com. “I thought he organization for his second professional finalized after the International World Games had an excellent (exhibition) game against The Iroquois Nationals, which represent Association confirmed that the Iroquois season. (the Tampa Bay Lightning), and he had a real the Haudenosaunee Confederacy in Keeper, a rugged 6-foot-2, 210-pound Nationals were eligible to compete, no good training camp. I think that was why he international field lacrosse, will be among objections were received from the Canadian defenseman from the Pimicikamak Cree earned his spot.” eight men’s lacrosse teams competing in the Nation in Manitoba, Canada, re-signed Olympic Committee, Canadian Lacrosse Keeper played his amateur hockey with 2022 World Games after they were originally Association, United States Olympic and with the Panthers on Aug. 31. The one- the OCN Blizzard, a team in the Manitoba excluded. year contract comes after Keeper spent his Paralympic Committee or U.S. Lacrosse, Junior Hockey League that was founded by “We’re very pleased that we will be as well as a decision by Ireland Lacrosse to rookie pro season with Florida’s American the Opaskwayak Cree Nation. Keeper went competing,” said Leo Nolan, executive Hockey League affiliate in Massachusetts. voluntarily withdraw from the tournament. on to play two seasons with the University of director of the organization that oversees the “This is a very good day, and outcome, Keeper, 24, put up solid numbers with 6 Maine. He left after the 2018-19 season and team and its development group. goals, 12 assists and a team-high 108 penalty for the sport of lacrosse,” said World signed with the Panthers. He immediately “Without us, it would have been a very Lacrosse President Sue Redfern. minutes in 61 games with the Springfield made his NHL debut with the Panthers, different kind of tournament.” Thunderbirds. “We have arrived at an outcome that appearing in one regular season game in The 11th edition of the World Games will create a true showcase for lacrosse at He appeared in one game this season for March 2019. will be held in Birmingham, Ala., in July the Panthers, which came in game 2 of their Springfield Thunderbirds the World Games 2022 in Birmingham. This He scored his first pro goal in October Brady Keeper 2022, and it will be the first time men’s was achieved by our organizations coming Stanley Cup qualifying round series against 2019 with Springfield. lacrosse will be included in the games. the New York Islanders in early August. together, listening carefully and working The Iroquois Nationals team was constructively to reach a shared goal.” originally told they were ineligible to compete under International Olympic ‘It was the right thing to do’ Committee rules. It is unclear what would have prevented the team from competing Last week, Ireland Lacrosse voluntarily under those rules. vacated its men’s senior national team’s The team is made up of athletes from position in the World Games 2022 to ensure the Haudenosaunee Confederacy, which there would be no barriers to the Iroquois includes the Kanien’kehá:ka (Mohawk), Nationals entry to the tournament. The Oneida, Onondaga, Cayuga, Seneca and association said it was “the right thing to do.” Tuscarora nations. Ireland finished 12th in the 2018 men’s The Haudenosaunee invented lacrosse. world championship. They call it a medicine game as a gift from “We recognized that there was a the Creator, to be played for his enjoyment problem with us going and with the Iroquois and for healing. being number three in the world and not “We’re the originators of the game,” being deemed eligible for this event,” said said Nolan. “The Creator gave us this game Catherine Conway, communications director and a part of the responsibility is to share the for Ireland Lacrosse and assistant coach for game with others.” the women’s senior national team. After an international movement of “We felt really strongly that just putting support was sparked for the team, with many another graphic on social media saying we other organizations working to try to find a support the Iroquois was not the appropriate solution, World Lacrosse announced on Sept. thing to do because talk is cheap. We very 7 the Iroquois Nationals are now among the much felt that action was necessary.” teams invited to compete. Nolan said “it was the right thing to do “It’s been a long road for the Iroquois for lacrosse in general.” Nationals. We’ve had some hurdles to go “We are certainly very thankful and over and this most recent one, we’re just have a great amount of respect for Ireland,” glad the right thing is being done,” said he said. David Bray, a member of the team’s board The top eight eligible women’s lacrosse of directors. teams invited to the World Games will be “It’s been an inspiration to see the world based upon final placement in the 2021 World lacrosse community, the world Indigenous Lacrosse Women’s World Championship, community, all stand behind us to get to this which takes place in Maryland next summer. point again. We look forward to continuing The women’s team representing the our efforts on the field.” Haudenosaunee Confederacy will now be The Iroquois Nationals, Australia, eligible for selection. Florida Panthers/NHL Canada, Germany, Great Britain, Israel, Brady Keeper, of the Pimicikamak Cree Nation in Canada, appears in an NHL game with the Florida Panthers. Keeper re-signed with the team Aug. 31 for a one-year contract.

middle school team, but due to low numbers allowing our middle schoolers to practice F MOORE HAVEN there is no team this year. with the varsity. We have the luxury of being From page 5B “We are hoping to have enough next able to do so because the middle and high season and are looking into possibly joining school’s share a building.” As for the entire squad, Burnside will a conference,” Burnside said. “We have be looking for improvement throughout the pulled up a couple of eighth-graders and are season. The team is coming off yet another winning season – its fifth in a row – having gone 7-6 with a pair of playoff victories in 2019. The Terriers have reached regional finals two of the past three years. “Expectations will always remain the same,” Burnside said. “It may take us a bit longer to get going as we were out a spring and got started late this year. We lost 16 seniors from last year’s team and a bunch of holes will need to be filled by some younger guys who will need to step up.” Due to the upheaval in high school athletics caused by the pandemic, the Terriers are looking at an abbreviated schedule. As of late September, the team only had five games on its schedule, but Burnside anticipates adjustments will be made along the way. Kevin Johnson Change.org In the past few years, some PECS students have played for Moore Haven’s Moore Haven gets ready to take the field to start the 2020 season Sept. 11 against Okeechobee. After initially being left out, the Iroquois Nationals men’s lacrosse team has received a bid to play in the 2022 World Games in Birmingham, Alabama.

fall, and other events have been canceled. substance abuse. the Northern Cheyenne reservation by connected people and act that way,” he said F COVID-19 But the All-Nations group still plans to That’s not unique to reservations; local officials and federal leaders. They — “even if we don’t believe the science, From page 3B hold a Halloween celebration with outdoor people across Montana and the U.S. have continue to worry about the health of family even if we believe that the moon has been activities and safety measures. It gives flouted rules like mask mandates. But with members, about the cultural traditions that made out of cheese.” For too many students, college feels like students a chance to bring their wider the underlying factors that can fan the elders carry. “fighting your way through what we would families to campus. spread of disease, such behavior can have Ultimately, dealing with the pandemic This article is from the Billings (Mont.) call a white man’s world,” Birdinground McGeshick hopes to do more outreach sharp consequences. will require cooperation and joint solutions, Gazette. It appears on missoulian.com. said. with local Native American high school The mix of rules in different McGeshick said. Finding a sense of community at students. Visits from a local drum group communities also sends mixed messages. “We have to look at each other as a MSUB was critical for both, and the Native have been canceled, but he believes the “What do you say, American Achievement Center served as university has a chance to encourage when you’re Native? a hub; Talawyma became president of the Billings students to stay close to home for White guys, they get school’s All-Nations club. college. to go everywhere,” The spring shutdowns and abrupt Birdinground gets frustrated driving McGeshick said. transition to online-only learning disrupted through Lame Deer. Tribes, including the Both Theodore Nelson Sr. life for students across the U.S. Northern Cheyenne, have issued some of Birdinground and Some of what the Center usually does the most restrictive Covid-19 prevention Talawyma were to aid students has been compromised rules in the nation. But she sees some people unhappy with how Licensed Clinical Social Worker, SW5813, Indian Child Welfare during the pandemic. In-person powwows living their lives unchanged, especially the pandemic has Consultant-Expert, Board Member National Indian Child Welfare those who are homeless or struggle with been handled on have been shut down this summer and Association, Licensed and Insured, Seminole Health Plan Provider Are you unhappy with your current counseling/child welfare services? access is everything: broadband of the Interior since June 2018. F CONNECTIVITY facilitates communications and She also serves as a member of Now there are alternative services for you and your family. Philosophically, From page 2A transactions vital to homes and the Operation Lady Justice Task businesses. Force established by President we all have difficulty balancing social life, culture, health, substance use/ Donald Trump’s Nov. 26, 2019, Connectivity in the traditional Tara Katuk Sweeney, an executive order on supporting and and cultural sense for tribal abuse, self-esteem, sense of belonging, emotions, our hopes and dreams. Iñupiat citizen of the Native protecting Native American women communities – like my own – is Village of Barrow and the Iñupiat and children. This article originally everything: kinship and social Community of the Arctic Slope, has appeared in The Cherokee Phoenix. bonds create the foundation for served as assistant secretary for community. In a technological I offer 20 years of professional experience as a qualified therapist working Indian Affairs at the Department sense, connectivity or internet with children, teens and adults in a confidential, private setting in your home or my office. I am available for individual counseling, dependency/ custody cases and tribal court; services are available for all reservations.

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