SUMMARY REPORT Mille Lacs Band of Ojibwe MCT CONSTITUTIONAL CONVENTION MEETING #1 August 21-22, 2017 | Onamia, MN Facilitated by: The Native Nations Institute, University of Arizona Joan Timeche, Executive Director Lindsay Riggs, Tribal Services Program Coordinator Danielle Hiraldo, Outreach Specialist/Senior Researcher Sponsored by the Minnesota Chippewa Tribe and Native Governance Center Presented and Summary Prepared by the Native Nations Institute 1 SUMMARY REPORT MILLE LACS BAND OF OJIBWE MCT CONSTITUTIONAL CONVENTION MEETING #1 Presented and Facilitated by the Native Nations Institute University of Arizona Sponsored by the Native Governance Center and Mille Lacs Band of Ojibwe Onamia, Minnesota | August 21-22, 2017 The Minnesota Chippewa Tribe (MCT) hosted a series of community meetings beginning August 2017. This report is a summary of the first gathering held in the Mille Lacs Band of Ojibwe (MLBO) community on August 21-22, 2017. The meetings were intended to provide the MCT members/citizens educational information on the existing MCT constitution and begin the process for its revision. Day 1 | Monday, August 21, 2017 Location: Grand Casino Mille Lacs Hotel Day 1, August 21, 2017, started at 12:30pm with an opening prayer by Joe Nayquonabe, Sr. Mille Lacs Chairwoman Melanie Benjamin welcomed the group and Kevin Dupuis, MCT President and Chairman of the Fond du Lac Band, provided the purpose of the meeting. President Dupuis explained that the constitutional convention was called to address questions and issues raised by MCT members. Wayne Ducheneaux II (Cheyenne River Sioux Tribe), Executive Director of the Native Governance Center (NGC), introduced NGC and explained its role as a resource throughout the MCT Constitutional Convention process. Ducheneaux introduced Rebecca Crooks-Stratton (Shakopee Mdewakanton Sioux Community), NGC’s Program Director. Joan Timeche (Hopi), Executive Director of the Native Nations Institute (NNI), welcomed the group and thanked them for hosting the NNI team. Timeche explained how NNI became involved in this meeting and discussed NNI’s role as facilitators for the next two days. Danielle Hiraldo (Lumbee), Outreach Specialist & Senior Researcher, and Lindsay Riggs (Navajo), Tribal Services Program Coordinator, introduced themselves to the group. Timeche reviewed the proposed agenda and discussed the format for the two-day meeting (see Appendix A). Ninety-three participants signed in for both days. Participants were encouraged to sign in but was optional. There were several individuals who chose not to sign in. Riggs led SESSION 1: THINKING STRATEGICALLY ABOUT MCT’S FUTURE exercise. Participants formed small groups and were instructed to individually complete the following sentence: “I want my (grand)children to live in a tribal community where…”. After writing their individual responses down, participants were asked to share their responses with their small groups. See TABLE 1 for the individual responses. NNI categorized the responses thematically into the following: • Safety • Culture • Language • Respect for each other • Getting rid of drugs • Helping one another • Unity • Education • Youth • Accountability Presented and Summary Prepared by the Native Nations Institute 2 Mille Lacs MCT Constitutional Convention Meeting, August 21-22, 2017 TABLE 1. SESSION 1: THINKING STRATEGICALLY ABOUT MCT’S FUTURE: “I want my (grand)children to live in a tribal community where….” GROUP 1 GROUP 2 GROUP 3 GROUP 4 GROUP 5 GROUP 6 GROUP 7 Absolute power no [They have] [There is a] sense of [They have] respect for [We are] It’s safe. Blood quantum longer corrupts. benefits: per belonging. each other. getting rid of doesn’t dictate if cap, school drugs. you belong. Where continued ed., we don’t allow bad housing. federal policy to determine our identity and take away our ancestry. We are governed by They have People work together to Everyone respects each [It is] drug-free, People are healthy. Being Anishinaabe leaders who work positive choices. make a good community. other. Jacob’s law isn’t measured by together for the good applies, registry blood quantum! of our people. of predatory offenders. Tribal Chief of Police That [they] have They are safe, They know our It’s drug free. [They] grow up The community is are elected by excellent empowered, and are able language, songs, foods, strong and healthy, drug free, where members and Tribal employment to learn our culture and and medicines. drug free and smart. everyone knows our Court Judges are opportunities, language. Where they can culture and can elected by members. housing, and be productive, thrive and speak the language. resources such be happy, work for the A community that as MLBO offers. tribe and feel a part of the recognizes our tribe. Where they can people not by a voice their opinions blood quantum but without fear of what is by their said. Be able to speak their contributions to minds respectfully to their family and future leaders and be community. treated with respect in return. There are good They can receive We are one people again! Ojibwe language is the Drugs are [They are] safe. They’re recognized positive leaders that the best 1st language and each unacceptable. as enrolled keep our communities education and member knows and members and have safe and cohesive healthcare practices our teachings the same benefits (together). available. and values. as all members. [They are] They are All members work People are practicing There is not a [There is a] safe Enrollment: [They] empowered accepted, together with a common and learning our drug or alcohol environment. count all blood; ed. Anishinaabé/Ojibwé! supported, and goal to do the best for all language & culture problem. and health: [there With no need of protected. is] complete Presented and Summary Prepared by the Native Nations Institute 3 Mille Lacs MCT Constitutional Convention Meeting, August 21-22, 2017 GROUP 1 GROUP 2 GROUP 3 GROUP 4 GROUP 5 GROUP 6 GROUP 7 outside Native (Bush) members of our tribe coverage; land: [we] Nations Builders. (equality). regain; language. Is our government the They have 1) They are safe & secure; They will grow up rich in [They are] drug- [They are] safe from LLBO enrollment model T version and opportunity to 2) A good education is tradition. Where we can free. harm; grow into a criteria are based on when will it be engage in available (the ability to all live in peace and not better community; s.t. other than BQ. updated to reflect language, think!); 3) They are taught have to worry about [can] pursue higher today? ceremony, and our history, culture, choosing a side. education. cultural religion, language; 4) They activities. learn to be leaders. [It is] free of tribal Natural Everyone is involved in the ALL adults help with the [We are a] drug We can all get along There is trust in corruption. resources are community. raising, mentoring, and free with everyone and leadership, where abundant, cared teaching of our culture, community, not be afraid to walk our culture and for, accessible; traditions, and lateral violence our own streets teachings are environment is ceremonies to help carry free because of the readily available, important. these important ways community. drugs/ alcohol/etc. and where they can given to our people. be proud of the people who came before them. [There are] new laws They have There is peace. People are treated with [There are] no Healthy recreational They feel safe and of enrollment. We are employment respect, care, and drugs!!! No opportunities exist are proud of where [missing word] the old options. dignity. The community violence. and are accessed; they come from. ways yet. is healthy. education and That they grow with economic knowledge of opportunities are customs and accessible. language. That all members and their families are recognized for their Indian blood, no matter their quantum level. They feel free to They have People are responsible for [They are] respectful. [We] eliminate There is peace, Our values and participate with their abundant their own lives; our the drug safety, a healthy principles - seven tribal government. natural community is not band dealers who are environment, justice grandfather resources and enablers. [We have] harming us and for all and prosperity teachings - access to them. responsible adults. especially our for all. permeate the children. community so that our future Presented and Summary Prepared by the Native Nations Institute 4 Mille Lacs MCT Constitutional Convention Meeting, August 21-22, 2017 GROUP 1 GROUP 2 GROUP 3 GROUP 4 GROUP 5 GROUP 6 GROUP 7 generations will grow and thrive as Anishinaabeg in a positive way. The community has [There is] We welcome, accept, and Our Anishinaabe values [We are] drug They are/feel safe to [There is] justice. true sovereignty and affordable/ love all. They don’t resonate. free. be Indian. an equitable adequate become reliant on relationship with housing. technology and material other national things; live our values; governments, respect elders and each especially the United other. States. I want our communities to be self-sustaining and sustainable with continued high value on cultural preservation and environmental stewardship. My grandchildren can We can own a Everyone actively [They] respect one [There is] no [There is] a happy [They] retain our make their own home and take participated in the another; that we are drug abuse. and helpful traditional values decisions on where good care and community. looking out for the community - not and spirituality. they want to live, but I [do] future generations, not afraid of would like them to maintenance just here and now. surrounding. come here and live in ourselves. District III with me. But, I see much trouble for them as they are white, native, black. Foster care is not We can have [There are] recreational [They are] respectful, [There is] no Gender equity is [There is] tribal needed. good health and opportunities: cultural law abiding, drugs and practiced/ active; unity -local and dental coverage. activities, immersion accountability, parental violence. meaningful nationally. schools, quality involvement employment health/dental care, quality (accountability). opportunities. education. Mancomin is healthy & sustained. Presented and Summary Prepared by the Native Nations Institute 5 Mille Lacs MCT Constitutional Convention Meeting, August 21-22, 2017 GROUP 1 GROUP 2 GROUP 3 GROUP 4 GROUP 5 GROUP 6 GROUP 7 [There is] no foster [They] grow up We have no more poverty There is equal [We are a] drug Anywhere they [They] respect. care. in a tribal and hunger. opportunity to live free would like to live and community without fear of violence community; the only if the where their and drugs while proudly protections for community is safe! parents and speaking and living our my great We have to learn to grandparents culture and language. grandchildren/ get along with protected them grandchildren different people. As and made to not be it is a mixture in the decisions so they exposed to world. I hate to hear can prosper as these drugs that they can’t get Natives. that are very along with the dangerous. whites! [We] teach our My children’s Education - Ojibwe culture, [There is] [We are] drug- [They] respect - law, [They are] self- youth/membership children know language as well as understanding. alcohol free. police, elders, each sufficient. about our government where they technical college [is other and be an and constitution. come from and available]. example; [are] proud of being treating others as Native. they would like to be treated themselves. They are well [There is] safety, They are safe and growing The water is clean and We should be Our elected officials I want my grandkids educated, rich in education, as confident and proud winter’s [left blank]. drug free on all can get along, to know this is culture and successful. respect, self- Anishinaabe children. A our support each other where their family worth, they help place where the welfare of reservations. instead of bickering; lived-walked-rode others, strive for your family and [are] free of the around. I want them betterment of community comes first. A drugs/alcohol; to be safe and community. place where culture and culture is important happy. the lessons of our and language is ancestors’ help shape us, important. and our future generations. A place where our lands, our resources, and each other are respected and appreciated. Traditions, culture, Equality thrives. Our voices matter. [They] know and Drugs are [not] Adults/people are [There are] and language are understand their tearing families self-sufficient. individual valued. identity. apart. responsibilities for each. Presented and Summary Prepared by the Native Nations Institute 6 Mille Lacs MCT Constitutional Convention Meeting, August 21-22, 2017 GROUP 1 GROUP 2 GROUP 3 GROUP 4 GROUP 5 GROUP 6 GROUP 7 [There is] equality. [They know] [They know our] language. We pass on lessons Ojibwemowin is Individuals are [There is a] good culture, about love, forgiveness, known, socially responsible. way of life. language, [are] and healthy understood, drug free, and relationships, NOT those and spoken in know your clan of (historical) trauma all arenas of roll. and abuse. decision- making. [They] keep the culture alive, learn the language, do traditional ceremonies, get along with others, and don’t abuse your elders and one another. Timeche asked the participants what was missing from the responses. The participants stated they did not hear the following: • Hunting, fishing and gathering (upheld by 1854 treaty) • Parental accountability and involvement in their own families to start with • Clean water • Teach our young men to be domestic violence free, there’s too much hatred across our reservations and men abusing females; we have to stop that. “Women are made for kissing, not hitting.” • Teach our youth and kids about tribal government. We don’t learn about tribal government in our schools (K-12) even when we are the dominant population. • Teach the sacredness of women, we have to model equality. • Concerning the MCT constitution process, there is no accountability in our elected officials. It is difficult to remove folks who are doing bad; I hope to find a simpler mechanism to recall officials (Article 5 and 6) who are not upholding their responsibilities. Presented and Summary Prepared by the Native Nations Institute 7 Mille Lacs MCT Constitutional Convention Meeting, August 21-22, 2017 Hiraldo presented SESSION 2: GOVERNMENT & CONSTITUTIONS: WHAT THEY ARE, DO, & LOOK LIKE ACROSS INDIAN COUNTRY. She began by asking the participants how they governed prior to adopting a written constitution. Participants discussed the concept of hereditary chiefs in their communities, spokespersons, clans, to name a few. The presentation acknowledged that governance is an Indigenous tradition; reviewed traditional Indigenous governing systems, contemporary structures, and the role constitutions play in governing. Timeche then presented NNI’s and the Harvard Project on American Indian Economic Development research findings during SESSION 3: WHY ARE SOME NATIVE NATIONS MORE SUCCESSFUL THAN OTHERS. It included a short video that reviewed the five principles of Native Nation Building and provided foundational information for the next small group discussion. The principles include: (1) practical self-rule (sovereignty); (2) capable governing institutions; (3) cultural match (institutions match community beliefs about authority); (4) strategic orientation (long-term vision and decision-making); and (5) public-spirited leadership (leaders bring the community into their thinking and actions). This approach is known as the “Native Nation Building Approach”. After the presentation, Timeche facilitated a discussion on the topic of big-picture suggestions to changing the MCT constitution. The participants were again asked to respond individually and then in small groups discuss their responses. NNI recorded the individual responses and categorized them thematically (see TABLE 2). The categories included: • Enrollment • Creating six autonomous bands outside of the MCT • Separation of powers • Removal of the Secretary of Interior approval clause • The need for a decision to be made to separate from the MCT or not • Representation and elections • Things to consider when discussing the status of MCT and the separate bands (identifying specific suggestions) • Begin a constitutional reform process and rewrite the MCT constitution • Discuss who has the power to interpret the MCT constitution • Land There were three responses that did not fit into any of the aforementioned broad themes. Those responses are listed under the heading “Parking Lot” after Table 2. One of the responses was written in Ojibwe/Anishinaabe. Instead of interpreting it, NNI took a picture of the response and included it. Presented and Summary Prepared by the Native Nations Institute 8 Mille Lacs MCT Constitutional Convention Meeting, August 21-22, 2017 TABLE 2. What suggestions do you have in changing the MCT Constitution? Enrollment Six Autonomous Separation of Secretary of Make a Representation Things to Start Over Who Land Bands Powers Interior Decision: & Elections Consider Interprets? Clause Separate or Removal Not from MCT Enrollment: Separate Separation of Remove We all Tribal Inform tribal Change Clearer MCT Land: Back count all blood sovereignty for powers. Department working population is members “what everything! interpretations. to the tribe (tribal). each Band. & Secretary together. unequal and is a Throw it out and who’s land it of Interior smaller tribes constitution.” A start over is on. from are overrun. lot are not (written by constitution. informed or Anishinaabeg for understand the Anishinaabeg). MCT Option of other constitution. Anishinaabe nations to join. Inclusive of all Encourage & Separation of Take out Unify 6 Allow How to get A constitution Interpretation Clarify who Anishinaabe allow each (6) powers. Secretary of bands: representatives federal that is based on by independent has ancestry. bands to self- Interior preamble to decide the recognition. our Ojibwe body. Supreme ownership govern through from reuse & size of their values - culture Court made up of lands & enrollments, constitution. include a councils. based. of Band rights of elections, land short members. lands. (more like Mille statement Lacs w/ regarding separation of unifying powers). together. Enrollment: if Each band 3 tier Removal of What’s the Creating If we disband Do away with Clarify removal Heirship mother is should develop government/ clause purpose of representative from MCT Constitution & process-define property enrolled, then their own type separation of requiring MCT? Unity. seats in each (extermination) write our own 2/3 vote- to say issues. children should of government. powers: U.S. Not tell each band that , are we Native specific- “at least 2/3 be enrolled. clarification Secretary of other what to reflects by opening up to not similar- vote” of election Interior do, but population. have federal make our own ordinances. approval. harmony. government original “Native” not recognize specific each individual constitution band? written by Natives. Enrollment & Each of the 6 Establish an Election Consider cost of MCT land on blood quantum - inherent appeal ordinance: change. individual inclusive of all governments process. clarification on reservations Anishinaabe. should . Presented and Summary Prepared by the Native Nations Institute 9 Mille Lacs MCT Constitutional Convention Meeting, August 21-22, 2017 Enrollment Six Autonomous Separation of Secretary of Make a Representation Things to Start Over Who Land Bands Powers Interior Decision: & Elections Consider Interprets? Clause Separate or Removal Not from MCT Audit of rolls. determine their how one is own form of certified. governance. Change Further Separation of Constitution Review Study other enrollments to definition of Power: 3 (MCT) is a representation Constitutions include all Indian each separate branches barrier to for each tribe at out there – 4 to blood. government self- MCT level. 5- some are entity. Clearer governance. good- tribe in definition of Florida- 163 authority. pages long to as short as 8 pages. 10-25 [pages] happy balance. Enrollment Each tribal Allow for Formulate Election includes all government Separation of separation of ordinance & Ojibwe blood. have the right to Powers with 6 Bands or sovereignty at govern their own authorization remain as tribal level. tribe & structure to create a one as each see fit. judiciary (Referendum authority. for people’s decision) Presented and Summary Prepared by the Native Nations Institute 10 Mille Lacs MCT Constitutional Convention Meeting, August 21-22, 2017 Enrollment Six Autonomous Separation of Secretary of Make a Representation Things to Start Over Who Land Bands Powers Interior Decision: & Elections Consider Interprets? Clause Separate or Removal Not from MCT Need to discuss Consensus of our Create a way Get rid of Discuss term the membership. table of 5. We to address RBC model - limits. are in agreeance MCT or keep each that it would be constituent band to self- better for each complainants determine. Band to have the and resolve. decision if they want separation of powers. We, the Mille Lacs Band membership, would like to break away from the MCT. Enrollment: Larger tribes vs. Clearly define Leave the Need more blood quantum; smaller tribes- authorities of decision of elected audit of rolls ability to do committees: separation of officials; five is what we want TEC, RBC powers up to too small. $$-wise, we are their band not equal. members not up to an RBC. Family choice of Vote to allow Sub- Open to make where to enroll, MLB to separate committees, revisions. WE which band we from MCT. not elected wrote own identify with. official constitution. helping MCT issues. Create other Dissolution of avenues for MCT and membership replacement other than blood with voluntary quantum. and cooperative Examples: coalition of all participation in Minnesota Presented and Summary Prepared by the Native Nations Institute 11 Mille Lacs MCT Constitutional Convention Meeting, August 21-22, 2017 Enrollment Six Autonomous Separation of Secretary of Make a Representation Things to Start Over Who Land Bands Powers Interior Decision: & Elections Consider Interprets? Clause Separate or Removal Not from MCT community, Anishinaabe siblings enrolled, tribes that is etc. organized without the interference of federal law. Enrollment: What works for Blood quantum, one Band separate band doesn’t mean it standards. works for all 6 Bands. We don’t need the 6 other Bands to be successful. Membership ratified - “scholars” well written document. Look at it. Where are we going in 50 years? Will we exist as Ojibwe unless we change criteria enrollment? Enrollment process. Presented and Summary Prepared by the Native Nations Institute 12 Mille Lacs MCT Constitutional Convention Meeting, August 21-22, 2017 “Parking Lot” of topics that participants want to discuss: • Confused why is this happening • Safety/regulate of tribal lands. Presented and Summary Prepared by the Native Nations Institute 13 Mille Lacs MCT Constitutional Convention Meeting, August 21-22, 2017 The first day ended with small group reports of the participants’ table discussions. Some of the participants were pleased with the afternoon discussions; while others were cautious about the format and having outsiders facilitate the meeting. Day 2 | Tuesday, August 22, 2017 Location: Grand Casino Mille Lacs Hotel Day 2 began with a welcome from NNI Facilitator Timeche and review of the day’s proposed agenda. She explained that NNI created a brief survey to assess participant knowledge and understanding of the MCT Constitution and to offer another option to provide input. The survey was distributed at the beginning of the day. An empty box was available for participants to submit their completed surveys. After the announcement, the agenda continued with the scheduled session. MCT Counsel Phil Brodeen (Bois Forte Band of Chippewa) presented SESSION 4: THE DEVELOPMENT OF THE MCT & CURRENT STRUCTURE. The presentation covered the history of the MCT Constitution, the powers and duties of the Tribal Executive Committee (TEC) and Reservation Business Committees (RBC), and the constitution’s day-to-day operations (Administration, Education, Finance, Human Services departments). Following Brodeen’s presentation some participants expressed concerns about the format of the meeting and proposed agenda. Timeche addressed the concerns by opening discussion on an agenda format that the entire group could agree upon. Some of the discussions began to move away from how to proceed. Participants decided before the lunch break that we would continue in the group format and discuss: what’s working and what’s not working with the MCT Constitution. Timeche began SESSION 5, ROUND 1: HOW DO WE STRENGTHEN THE MCT & BAND GOVERNMENTS? asking the participants to think about what’s working within the existing MCT constitution. Participants worked individually and discussed their responses within their assigned small groups. Discussion transitioned into SESSION 5, ROUND 2: HOW DO WE STRENGTHEN THE MCT & BAND GOVERNMENTS? using the same individual response to small group process by prompting the participants to consider what’s NOT working within the existing MCT constitution. Groups reported their findings. The list below is the summary reported by a representative of each group. Individual responses are documented in TABLE 3. • Group 1: o Process: There is friction going on in the room; we are going a little fast and need more education; communication with membership is filtered and are snippets; facilitation process is appreciated and gives everyone an opportunity to share. o What’s working: What are they doing? There’s strength in numbers, collectively 40,000 members, we’re not sure if MCT takes advantage of that in terms of lobbying on behalf of the whole; provide the exercises through the website or social media; Mille Lacs took the constitution to the community. o What’s not working: blood quantum, tribe is being diminished; federal recognition between all 6 bands; President Trump; culture, language, traditions, and our elders need to be woven into all that we do and that we have representatives; we hold ourselves back, we don’t think we can move forward as a tribe. • Group 2: o Working: Zaagibagaang initiative. o Not working: MCT should do a better job of informing individual band members; current structure of each reservation having a chairman, vice, etc. doesn’t work, each band needs to come up with representation; there is no enforcement, particularly Article 13. Presented and Summary Prepared by the Native Nations Institute 14 Mille Lacs MCT Constitutional Convention Meeting, August 21-22, 2017 • Group 3: We mostly talked about what’s not working: Information needs to get out; need to be clear about who’s disseminating that information, who should be doing it? The bands, tribe? MCT should take on more of those tasks, to use their resources to get education out. As band members, we do have a responsibility to engage in the process; take information as it is offered; enrollment: we agree on lineal descendancy; take a look at the Wilder Report and educate ourselves about that; local government and RBCs; need more communication and transparency, who controls the resources? If we decide to keep the constitution, it should be amended and have Anishinaabe values; look at ways that we can unite and other avenues we can take. • Group 4: Not working: not being informed; do not understand the constitution. • Group 5: Not working: communication between people and band members; we don’t know what the constitution says or what it means, needs more explanation; our grandchildren not being enrolled; a lot of people don’t care about the constitution. • Group 6: Going through the constitution line-line and discussing as we go (a way to learn); having a team of educators and lawyers talk about the constitution (education). • Group 7: Our grandchildren were a big concern, our grandchildren and great grandchildren… We don’t really understand all the rules and regulations on the constitution; we are all one - Anishinaabe; we should all stand together; and try to teach the stuff we do know. Our land, our people are important; each one of us has a different idea, but we all come from one place and we’ll all go back to one place. • Group 8: Overall cooperation; each reservation has its own special needs. • Group 9: o Working: Stronger voice together as MCT; the constitution brings us all together. o Not working: Grandchildren are not enrolled; agenda is not followed at TEC meetings; lack of adequate communication to all members; inclusion of all members (on and off reservation); a lot of problems but no solutions. Each band to have a more comprehensive set of discussion on the local level; pros and cons (playing out the scenario) of breaking away from the MCT. • Group 10: o Working: We are federally recognized right now. In the Federal Register it lists all 6 bands individually, so are we recognized as the individual bands or as the MCT. What is the process for federal recognition? o Not working: Interpretations of the constitution, require Secretary of Interior election referendums. TABLE 3. What’s WORKING and NOT WORKING with the existing constitution? WHAT’S WORKING NOT WORKING Strength in numbers. Blood quantum. Opportunities to lobby. Federal recognition. Opportunity to hear more input/continue. President Trump. Mille Lacs took constitution to homes. Culture/language/traditions not woven into everything. Stronger voice together. Representatives in process. Constitution brings us together. Hold ourselves back. [We] are federally recognized. Enrollment, possibly move toward lineal descent. Continue work of Zaagibagaang. Not following TEC agenda. Stand up for rights of our people. Unity for all members. Here together talking about what’s important to Lack of adequate community. us. Elected officials. Inclusion of all members. Process. Interpretations of constitution. Presented and Summary Prepared by the Native Nations Institute 15 Mille Lacs MCT Constitutional Convention Meeting, August 21-22, 2017 More education. Inform members better. Continue forward. Current structure doesn’t work. Go through constitution line by line and learn. No tribal court @ MCT level. Get overall cooperation from each band, overseen Don’t understand constitution & by MCT. rules/resolutions. Each member takes responsibility to be engaged. Communication between band members. Infuse constitution with traditions/culture. Our grandchildren not being enrolled. Consider federacy structure. Most don’t care about the constitution. Look at ways to unite. Things not going well for children. Each band to discuss constitution before national. Getting info to people, who’s responsible? MCT should determine this & use their resources (live stream). Play out pros/cons of breaking out into 6 separate Educate on Wilder Report. entities. Do we need MCT? More communication, accountability, transparency in RBC & oversee representations. Is our sovereignty in jeopardy w/recognition at Who controls resources? MCT level? Do we need SOI approval on everything? Or Have we decided on timeline? Who is responsible remove? for what? Timeche and Hiraldo co-presented SESSION 6: STRENGTHENING OUR GOVERNMENT: HOW HAVE OTHER NATIVE NATIONS ADDRESSED THE PROCESS OF REVISING OR REFORMING THEIR CONSTITUTION? The presentation included a brief survey of several constitutional reform process examples. The NNI facilitators concluded with a group discussion prompting the participants to provide recommendations for the MCT constitution process by utilizing the individual and small group discussion process. The responses are recorded in TABLE 4. TABLE 4. Based on what we’ve heard and discussed today, our recommendations for continuing the MCT constitution process are... Group Response 10 • Each reservation should be responsible for educating their residents line-by-line of the constitution. 9 • Continue (historical) education and develop a constitution commission. • Needs to be well-funded. • Submit draft to TEC for approval. 8 • Come up with how each band coming up with own constitution to meet own needs and continue to change. 7 • From elders, questionnaire of needs assessment. • Make sure everyone is aware/understands to make decisions. • People are trained and fit needs of people. • When people vote they are educated/understand. • It’s up to RBC to help us with process to understand constitution. • Grandchildren need to be recognized. Presented and Summary Prepared by the Native Nations Institute 16 Mille Lacs MCT Constitutional Convention Meeting, August 21-22, 2017 Group Response 6 • See background documents that participants should understand (redlined documents). • Set aside time to integrate that information into process (at band, at big gatherings, etc.). • More deep, rich, “what does this mean to us?” discussions. • Go through constitution line by line. • Discuss how to disseminate information through media and different locations. 5 • Do own discussions on each reservation because there are similar problems. • More culture stuff including in the front of the constitution. 4 • Line by line explanation to members with a legal person to explain so all understand. • Do we need MCT? • What are the pros/cons? • Cultural aspect integrated into the process. • Communication from MCT to everybody. 3 • Everybody wants to change, but nobody wants change. • Create a video on all six nations. • Create a constitution commission that generates and interprets for the people. • Bring in youth. • Create a fund for active outreach. • Allocate money to study more constitution issues. • Provide an equal voice for every tribe. • Still need to understand MCT, what they (elected officials) do today? 2 • Timeline: Length of time needed. Have a goal in mind as to how long it will take. • Educate all band members (L-B-L). • Use Zaagibagaang education materials as a start. It has videos, links, and other resources about MCT. 1 • Making sure humor is there. • Send communication to everyone. • Educate. • Keep meeting together as members. • Cultural component needs to be added - Ojibwe. • Include history (natural order of laws, etc.). • Binding agreement (language, tradition, culture), culture and identity (what we do/not and just do), solutions in our ceremony, practice love/respect with one another. Independent • Transparency in process. group • Significance of MCT history and why formed. • Review local MLB statutes. • Focus on parts not working. • Creating form of education, possibly exam. • Take initiative to bring one more person. • Discuss what are the options (if any). • Need to be aware of outside political atmosphere. • Consolidating interpretation of constitution to continue education. • More education. • Diffuse the air of separation and promote unity among tribes. Presented and Summary Prepared by the Native Nations Institute 17 Mille Lacs MCT Constitutional Convention Meeting, August 21-22, 2017 Before the meeting adjourned, an individual expressed his views on the MCT constitution. He insisted that there’s “nothing Ojibwe in the constitution. There’s no life either. Where does the life come from? The connection to the outside world? That’s where we come from: iron, copper, zinc, water. We have a constitution that is older and that connection has been broken. We going to use the pink and brown to determine this? If you want to know our culture go outside, talk to the water. We’re talking from our minds and not from our hearts (love, goodness).” He then suggested everyone take tobacco and go outside and pray, which many did. Once everyone returned to the meeting room, it was agreed that was the best way to end the day and the meeting adjourned. At the end of the session, NNI reminded participants to submit their completed surveys. MILLE LACS BAND WRITTEN SURVEY RESULTS Out of 100 surveys distributed, NNI received 64 responses. The following pages include those responses and a preliminary analysis. Note about survey: NNI distributed a paper copy to all the participants at the Mille Lacs Band of Ojibwe Constitution Convention meeting on the morning of the second day. Participants submitted their completed surveys in to box at the end of the day. NNI collected the responses and developed an online version through Qualtrics, a survey software. In order to maintain the integrity of the survey, an NNI staff member recorded the responses verbatim into the online software. Misspellings and illegible remarks are marked with [sic] and [illegible] respectfully. The survey was developed to assess three main categories: level of understanding, personal views, and general information. Respondents were asked to “rate each statement by circling a number between 1- 5.” 1 =Strongly Disagree; 2=Disagree; 3= Neutral; 4= Agree; 5= Strongly Agree. There were two open- ended questions that focused on recommendations for specific changes to the MCT constitution. The first set of questions (Q1-4) related to the respondent’s level of understanding of the Minnesota Chippewa Tribe. You will notice from the following graphs that the majority of the respondents agree that they understand the constitution; the powers of the Tribal Executive Committee (TEC) and Reservation Business Committees (RBCs); and the way MCT government operates. Presented and Summary Prepared by the Native Nations Institute 18 Mille Lacs MCT Constitutional Convention Meeting, August 21-22, 2017 One question (Q5) was designed to inquire whether a respondent has read the MCT constitution. Of the 64 respondents, a majority 49 (76.56%) answered “yes”. The second set of questions (Q6-9) gauge the respondents’ personal views of MCT governmental functions. These questions address the perceived notions of equity, clarity, and representation within the MCT government. The graphs below illustrate that fifteen (15) respondents “agree”, seventeen (17) chose “neutral” as their response, and twelve (12) “disagree” the MCT’s election process is fair (Q6). For question 7, twenty-seven (27) respondents were “neutral” on whether the TEC exercises power fairly, followed by sixteen (16) who “disagree” and eleven (11) who “strongly disagree” with the statement. Twenty-three (23) respondents “agree” that the qualifications to run for TEC are clear (Q8); twenty-two (22) selected “neutral” and sixteen (16) selected “agree” as their responses for whether the qualifications are adequate (Q9). Respondents appear to agree that the candidate qualifications are clear; however, equity may be a concern with the execution of such powers and authorities. Presented and Summary Prepared by the Native Nations Institute 19 Mille Lacs MCT Constitutional Convention Meeting, August 21-22, 2017 Questions 10 was a duplicate of question 7 so no responses were recorded. Twenty-five (25) respondents “strongly disagree” that the current MCT enrollment criteria reflect how they view themselves as Anishinaabe (Q11). The respondents expressed the most disagreement with the questions related to representation and equity (Q12-15). Eighteen (18) respondents “strongly disagree” that the bands’ needs are equally considered, compared to twenty-two (22) “neutral” responses (Q12). Seventeen (17) respondents “strongly disagree” and seventeen (17) “disagree” that major TEC decisions include band input (Q13). Fourteen (14) “strongly disagree” and nineteen (19) “disagree” that there is ample opportunity to address concerns within the MCT government while nineteen (14) were “neutral” (Q14). Finally, seventeen (17) respondents “strongly disagree” and sixteen (16) respondents “disagree” with the statement that the MCT constitution serves the needs of the people (Q15).” Presented and Summary Prepared by the Native Nations Institute 20 Mille Lacs MCT Constitutional Convention Meeting, August 21-22, 2017 The final set of questions seek community input on how to improve the MCT government. Respondents were asked to consider how much change they would like to see in the future (Q16). Twenty-six (26) respondents answered the question suggesting that the tribe should “keep its current constitution and make amendments” to address some of the concerns, while another twenty-six (26) responded that there should be an entirely “new constitution” written. Zero (0) respondents elected to keep the constitution the way it is currently written. If the respondents chose to amend the constitution or write a new one, they were prompted to write what they think needed to be amended in the existing constitution or any major changes that needed to be included in a new constitution. Comments regarding each of these are listed below. a. Amend Existing Constitution Out of the respondents who suggested amending the existing constitution: • Ten (10) out of the twenty (20) responses included enrollment as an amendment within the existing constitution. • Five (5) responses addressed the TEC’s authority to interpret the constitution. • Five (5) responses addressed the need for education and engagement to occur if amendments will be made. • Two (2) responses included removing the Secretary of Interior approval clause from the existing constitution. • Other responses include: o “Ojibwe Values and Culture.” Presented and Summary Prepared by the Native Nations Institute 21 Mille Lacs MCT Constitutional Convention Meeting, August 21-22, 2017 o “Appeal process for membership rights.” o “Terms limits and a court of appeals should be added into the existing constitution.” o “Strengthen preamble, clarify TEC and individual band duplications regarding land authorities at individual rezs [sic]. Clarify relief process for person subject to removal.” o “Article 3- Governing Body- power to the people!” o “Elected officials to abide by oath of office.” b. Write a New Constitution Out of the respondents who suggested to write a new constitution: • Six (6) out of twenty-three (23) responses discussed the need for a separation of powers. • Five (5) responses addressed enrollment concerns. • Other responses identified the need to incorporate Anishinaabe culture into the governing document including having an Anishinaabe person write the document (two responses). • Three (3) suggested that powers and authorities should return to the band level. • Two (2) responses suggested that input for the new constitution should come from MCT citizens. • One (1) response specifically states, “Bicameral Legislative. Tribal Wide constitution and local constitutions as well. Three branches, bill of rights, mechanisms for expansion, direct election of tribal Offices and citizenship.” • Other responses include: o “For bands members if you are connected of theft drug sales then you lose your [illegible] payments in order for you to receive a lump sum payment they have to go to college for at least two years.” o “Allow the Separate inherent sovereigns to separate from the white man's constitution that don't reflect our Anishnabe values language and traditions. Allow Bands as inherent sovereign to determine their own destiny. The MCT is a barrier to self-government.” o “Dissolution of the MCT under the 1934 IRA rules in United States department of interior authority. Replacement with tribally organized body of all Anishnabe tribes who sit to participate, to work together equitably, with strength together, stronger than anything that federal government ever made. We are bonded by family, ceremony, history, and culture. We do not need their oversight and will not lose our status.” c. Other Suggestions Twenty-eight (28) respondents offered more suggestions to strengthen the MCT constitution. • Seven (7) respondents discussed the importance of the bands remaining autonomous. Of the seven, two (2) expressed not to diminish the bands’ autonomy within the MCT government structure. One (1) respondent stated “All Bands responsible to govern as they see fit. Mille Lacs has separation of powers form of Govt. [Government]. Leave us be- it works for us!!” The other four (4) expressed that the bands should have their own constitutions, “doing away with MCT all together”, “in favor of Mille Lacs band becoming its own tribe - no longer under MCT”, and “be able to be independent, sovereign, self-determination. As MCT Tribe we have difference [sic] viewpoints, different ideas that we can't exercise on our own Reservation [sic]”. • Six (6) responses included some form of education and citizen input within the process. Two (2) respondents discussed the need to insert Ojibwe culture, language, and traditions incorporating the 7 teachings. Two (2) respondents discussed removal of Secretary of Interior approval clause. Two (2) identified TEC’s authority to make interpretations. • Other responses included: o “Recognition of Articles of constitution.” o “Accountabiliter [sic] - follow it.” o “Add judicial components, cultural additions for resolution.” Presented and Summary Prepared by the Native Nations Institute 22 Mille Lacs MCT Constitutional Convention Meeting, August 21-22, 2017 o “There are too many political agendas. There are elected leaders that want to build a kingdom so they can be king.” o “Same as needing a new constitution.” o “Call a referendum on the Q's on #16 + let membership decide what we should do so we can start working on it + moving [sic] forward.” o “Have committees to advise the TEC members from your tribe.” o “Making sure all of the reservations have [casinos] for their [revenue] and other [businesses], our [casinos] take care of the needs of our reservation.” General Information The demographics of the audience may help understand who attends the MCT Constitutional Convention sessions and how they may assist in future endeavors. In addition, it allows the elected leaders to discuss a strategy to engage members who are not attending the sessions. The majority of the respondents were female (65.63%). The respondents’ ages ranged from 24-81. 60.94% are employed and 51.43% are enrolled MCT citizens. The complete survey is located in Appendix B. Presented and Summary Prepared by the Native Nations Institute 23 Mille Lacs MCT Constitutional Convention Meeting, August 21-22, 2017 Appendix A Presented and Summary Prepared by the Native Nations Institute 25 MINNESOTA CHIPPEWA TRIBE CONSTITUTION MEETINGS August 2017 – January 2018 Sponsored by the Minnesota Chippewa Tribe (MCT) with generous support from the Native Governance Center and the Bois Forte Band of Chippewa Presented & Facilitated by the Native Nations Institute, University of Arizona October 23-24, 2017 Fortune Bay Resort Casino, The Woodland Ballroom, Vermilion, Minnesota Day 1 Time Agenda Item 11:30 a.m. REGISTRATION & LITE LUNCH 12:00 p.m. OPENING PRAYER WELCOME & PURPOSE • Bois Forte Band – Tribal Chairwoman Cathy Chavers • Minnesota Chippewa Tribe – Chairman Kevin Dupuis INTRODUCTIONS: FACILITATORS, PRESENTERS, & SPONSORS 12:30 p.m. SESSION 1: THE DEVELOPMENT OF THE MCT & CURRENT STRUCTURE — Philip Brodeen • History of the MCT Constitution • What are the powers and duties of the Tribal Executive Committee (TEC)? • What are the powers and duties of the Reservation Business Committees (RBC)? • How does the MCT work on a day-to-day basis in comparison to each Band? • Discussion: Does the current MCT Constitution accurately reflect who we are as a people today? 2:30 p.m. SESSION 2: THINKING STRATEGICALLY ABOUT MCT’S FUTURE — Native Nations Institute • Complete the following sentence: “I want my (grand)children to live in a tribal community where….” 3:00 p.m. SESSION 3: GOVERNMENT & CONSTITUTIONS: WHAT THEY ARE, DO, & LOOK LIKE ACROSS INDIAN COUNTRY — Native Nations Institute • The foundations of effective governments: What does a government do? • Defining a constitution in the broadest sense • The key issues a constitution needs to address • The diversity of constitutions and governing systems across Indian Country • Do you have the governance tools you need to achieve your strategic goals? 3:30 p.m. DISCUSSION (Small Groups) • What suggestions do you have in changing the MCT Constitution? 4:15 p.m. SMALL GROUP REPORTS 4:30 p.m. ADJOURN 1 Day 2 Time Agenda Item 8:00 a.m. BREAKFAST 8:30 a.m. WELCOME, REVIEW OF DAY 1 DISCUSSION and REVIEW OF DAY 2 AGENDA 8:45 a.m. SESSION 4: WHY ARE SOME NATIVE NATIONS MORE SUCCESSFUL THAN OTHERS? — Native Nations Institute • The Standard Approach to Native community and economic development • The Nation-Building Approach to Native community and economic development • The results of each • Discussion: How does this apply to the MCT? 9:15 a.m. SESSION 5, ROUND 1: HOW DO WE STRENGTHEN THE MCT & BAND GOVERNMENTS? • Groupwork: What’s WORKING with the existing constitution of the: o MCT overall? o Tribal Executive Committee (TEC)? o Reservation Business Committees (RBCs)? 10:00 a.m. BREAK 10:15 a.m. SESSION 5, ROUND 2: HOW DO WE STRENGTHEN THE MCT & BAND GOVERNMENTS? • Groupwork: What’s NOT WORKING with the existing constitution of the: o MCT overall? o Tribal Executive Committee (TEC)? o Reservation Business Committees (RBCs)? 11:o0 a.m. SMALL GROUP REPORTS & CATEGORIZATION OF COMMONALITIES 12:00 p.m. LUNCH 1:00 p.m. SESSION 5, ROUND 3: HOW DO WE STRENGTHEN THE MCT & BAND GOVERNMENTS? • Groupwork: Of the issues identified in previous rounds, how might we address some of the key issues? 1:45 p.m. SMALL GROUP REPORTS 2:15 p.m. BREAK 2:30 p.m. SESSION 6: STRENGTHENING OUR GOVERNMENT — HOW HAVE OTHER NATIVE NATIONS ADDRESSED THE PROCESS OF REVISING OR REFORMING THEIR CONSTITUTIONS? • Questions & Answers 3:00 p.m. DISCUSSION (Small Groups) • Based on what we’ve heard and discussed today, our recommendations for continuing the MCT constitution process are... 3:45 p.m. SMALL GROUP REPORTS 4:15 p.m. NEXT STEPS 4:30 p.m. ADJOURN 2 Mille Lacs MCT Constitutional Convention Meeting, August 21-22, 2017 Appendix B Presented and Summary Prepared by the Native Nations Institute 26 Default Report MCT Constitutional Convention Survey September 14th 2017, 2:35 pm MDT 1 - I understand the Minnesota Chippewa Tribe's Constitution and Bylaws. # Answer % Count 1 Strongly Disagree 7.81% 5 2 Disagree 18.75% 12 3 Neutral 23.44% 15 4 Agree 39.06% 25 5 Strongly Agree 9.38% 6 6 No Answer 1.56% 1 Total 100% 64 2 - I understand the powers of the Tribal Executive Committee (TEC). # Answer % Count 1 Strongly Disagree 7.81% 5 2 Disagree 14.06% 9 3 Neutral 21.88% 14 4 Agree 40.63% 26 5 Strongly Agree 12.50% 8 6 No Answer 3.13% 2 Total 100% 64 3 - I understand the powers of the Reservation Business Committees (RBCs). # Answer % Count 1 Strongly Disagree 12.50% 8 2 Disagree 15.63% 10 3 Neutral 15.63% 10 4 Agree 35.94% 23 5 Strongly Agree 17.19% 11 6 No Answer 3.13% 2 Total 100% 64 4 - I understand how the Minnesota Chippewa Tribal government operates. # Answer % Count 1 Strongly Disagree 14.06% 9 2 Disagree 15.63% 10 3 Neutral 15.63% 10 4 Agree 43.75% 28 5 Strongly Agree 7.81% 5 6 No Answer 3.13% 2 Total 100% 64 5 - I have read the Minnesota Chippewa Tribe's Constitution. # Answer % Count 1 Yes 76.56% 49 2 No 20.31% 13 3 No Answer 3.13% 2 Total 100% 64 6 - The Minnesota Chippewa Tribe's election process is fair. # Answer % Count 1 Strongly Disagree 15.63% 10 2 Disagree 18.75% 12 3 Neutral 26.56% 17 4 Agree 23.44% 15 5 Strongly Agree 9.38% 6 6 No Answer 6.25% 4 Total 100% 64 7 - The Tribal Executive Committee (TEC) exercises power fairly. # Answer % Count 1 Strongly Disagree 17.19% 11 2 Disagree 25.00% 16 3 Neutral 42.19% 27 4 Agree 7.81% 5 5 Strongly Agree 3.13% 2 6 No Answer 4.69% 3 Total 100% 64 8 - The qualifications to run for the Tribal Executive Committee (TEC) are clear to me. # Answer % Count 1 Strongly Disagree 9.38% 6 2 Disagree 9.38% 6 3 Neutral 23.44% 15 4 Agree 35.94% 23 5 Strongly Agree 9.38% 6 6 No Answer 12.50% 8 Total 100% 64 9 - The qualifications to run for the Tribal Executive Committee (TEC) are adequate. # Answer % Count 1 Strongly Disagree 14.06% 9 2 Disagree 14.06% 9 3 Neutral 34.38% 22 4 Agree 25.00% 16 5 Strongly Agree 6.25% 4 6 No Answer 6.25% 4 Total 100% 64 10 - The Tribal Executive Committee (TEC) exercises power fairly. --REPEATED QUESTION 7-- # Answer % Count 1 Strongly Disagree 14.06% 9 2 Disagree 25.00% 16 3 Neutral 39.06% 25 4 Agree 10.94% 7 5 Strongly Agree 3.13% 2 6 No Answer 7.81% 5 Total 100% 64 11 - Current enrollment requirements reflect how we view ourselves as Anishinaabe. # Answer % Count 1 Strongly Disagree 39.06% 25 2 Disagree 17.19% 11 3 Neutral 18.75% 12 4 Agree 15.63% 10 5 Strongly Agree 4.69% 3 6 No Answer 4.69% 3 Total 100% 64 12 - The needs of each band are equally considered. # Answer % Count 1 Strongly Disagree 28.13% 18 2 Disagree 18.75% 12 3 Neutral 34.38% 22 4 Agree 12.50% 8 5 Strongly Agree 3.13% 2 6 No Answer 3.13% 2 Total 100% 64 13 - Major Tribal Executive Committee (TEC) decisions include band input. # Answer % Count 1 Strongly Disagree 26.56% 17 2 Disagree 26.56% 17 3 Neutral 32.81% 21 4 Agree 10.94% 7 5 Strongly Agree 1.56% 1 6 No Answer 1.56% 1 Total 100% 64 14 - There is ample opportunity to address concerns with the Minnesota Chippewa Tribal government. # Answer % Count 1 Strong Disagree 21.88% 14 2 Disagree 29.69% 19 3 Neutral 29.69% 19 4 Agree 12.50% 8 5 Strongly Agree 1.56% 1 6 No Answer 4.69% 3 Total 100% 64 15 - The Minnesota Chippewa Tribe's Constitution serves the needs of the MCT people. # Answer % Count 1 Strongly Disagree 26.56% 17 2 Disagree 25.00% 16 3 Neutral 28.13% 18 4 Agree 10.94% 7 5 Strongly Agree 3.13% 2 6 No Answer 6.25% 4 Total 100% 64 16 - In looking to the future of the Minnesota Chippewa Tribal government, how much change do you think should happen? # Answer % Count Do not change the current 1 0.00% 0 constitution. It is fine as is. Keep the current constitution and make amendments. Area(s) the 2 need to be amended in 40.63% 26 the MCT constitution (if you know the article and section, please list it): A new constitution. The 3 major changes would 40.63% 26 include: 4 I am neutral on this issue. 15.63% 10 5 No Answer 3.13% 2 Total 100% 64 Keep the current constitution and make amendments. Area(s) the need to be a... Keep the current constitution and make amendments. Area(s) the need to be a... Appeal process for membership rights 13-09 Tribal Interpretation - changed from what we voted for. would we retain federal recognition - count all Ojibwe blood Enrollments Enrollment, individual sovereignty, separate constitution, removal of the department of the interior Ojibwe Values and Culture Enrollment Referendum vote on interpretations - set up an appellate board to interpret constitution referendum votes for any change / amendment I think we should go section by section and amend to update sections for present and future time. Go through it line by line and word for word Term limits, court of appeals added, interpretations of constitution, enrollments Stop making interpretations!! Go through step by step probably going o take a good 2 months of weekly meetings Election(s) Strengthen preamble, clarify TEC and individual band duplications regarding land authorities at individual rezes. Clarify relief process for person subject to removal. Enrollment regulations need updating. Do a referendum vote to make interpretations legal. Accept other Chippewa blood Go line by line and explain what each means Article 2 - membership/blood quantum or not Article 3- Governing Body- power to the people! Elected officials to abide by oath of office and enrollment requirement Enrollment, membership, remove secretary of the interior, Authority of MCT manner of review should not have to get okay from secretary interior Amend according to needs of each band, we are still known as MCT. We need to foster the needs of our own people on our reservations. We do know what Leech lake or others need A new constitution. The major changes would include: A new constitution. The major changes would include: For been members if you are connected of theft drug sales then you lose your prayer cat Payments in order for you to receive a lump sum payment they have to go to college for at least two years Provided input during session Enrollment Criteria Needs to be written by Anishnabe Bicameral Legislative. Tribal Wide constitution and local constitutions as well. Three branches, bill of rights, mechanisms for expansion, direct election of tribal Offices and citizenship Allow the Separate inherent soviergns to separate from the white man's constitution that don't reflect our Anishnabe values language and traditions. Allow Bands as inherent sovereign to determine their own destiny. The MCT is a barrier to self-government Add culture and tribal language Communication Officials responsible to send summary to band members so all are informed Term Limits- Eligibility - Sec of Interior- Remove_ Judicial Powers Separate Separation of powers, greater representation, membership and citizenship, tribes with bands and reservations for individual nations? Separation of powers rights of citizens checks and balances, citizenship Enrollment qualifications for office RBC components and Land distribution and release to each band Dissolution of the MCT under the 1934 IRA rules in United States department of interior authority. Replacement with tribally organized body of all Anishnabe tribes who sit to participate, to work together equitably, with strength together, stronger then anything that federal government ever made. We are bonded by family, ceremony, history, and culture. We do not need their oversight and will not lose our status. Separation of Powers, enrollment citizens Enrolling all children of members voting in candidate that should be 18, make petition process easily accessible, remove federal oversight and approval of tribal and reservation decisions live by our treaty developed by ourselves and not by a government attorney or BIA. Incorporate our culture and values Allowing MCT members to Create and write our own system of governing ourselves Enrollment hand issue written by native people Each tribe is don't reservation we are not a big band. Each tribe needs to be there Our Traditional values to govern our tribe The needs of each band separations of power, family values, and teachings of our grand parents Input from the band members Powers back to each individual Tribe 17 - What other suggestions do you have for strengthening the MCT constitution? Please be as specific as possible: # Answer % Count 1 My suggestions are: 43.75% 28 2 No answer 56.25% 36 Total 100% 64 My suggestions are: My suggestions are: Autonomy to individual bands has always been important. Any changes to MCT Constitution should not diminish the sovereign status of individual bands MCT must remain but more autonomy for individual bands to make enrollment decisions Remove DOI, only Chippewa / Ojibwe Blood- red lake Keep members of all tribes informed and updated via web, email, newsletters To be informed Recognition of articles of constitution Each tribe should have their own constitution Accountability Add judicial components, cultural additions for resolution Ask Members their opinions every step of the way Remove Secuartarial approval of everything There are too many political agendas. There are elected leaders that want to build a kingdom so they can be king. To incorporate the 7 teachings, we won't fail then, change form the heart Education All Bands responsible to govern as they see fit. Mille Lacs has separation of powers form of GOvt. Leave us be- it works for us!! Are Interpretations- needed? We need a referendum vote today! ASAP same as previous question Call a referendum on the Q's in number 16 and let membership decide what we should do so we can start working on it and move forward The MCT needs to educate the constituents of our powers and rights, and the differences of amendments and interpretations no MCT/ TEC interpretations. Follow the proper MCT article 12 amendment process Make wording specific and clear so there can be no mis-interpretations, recognize our treaty rights Have committees to advise the TEC members from your tribe TO be able to be independent and sovereign, self determination. As MCT Tribe we have different view points. different ideas that we can't excursive on our own reservation I am in favor of Mille Lacs band becoming its own tribe, no longer under MCT Start Teaching what ever we come up with at a young age. .Design Curriculum from K-12 and Cont. Ed Do away with MCT all together. If we don't have the capital MCT we don't need any revision/amendment MCT constitution Making sure all of the reservations have casinos for their revenue and other businesses, our casinos take care of the needs of our reservation More input from the band members Include Ojibwe culture, language and traditions 18 - What is your gender? # Answer % Count 1 Male 31.25% 20 2 Female 65.63% 42 3 Other: 0.00% 0 4 No answer 3.13% 2 Total 100% 64 Other: Other: 19 - What is your age? # Answer % Count 1 I am: 93.75% 60 2 No answer 6.25% 4 Total 100% 64 I am: I am: 48 40 47 50 44 55 40 62 60 51 81 76 69 72 77 40 32 62 42 55 45 48 61 76 49 43 59 43 54 59 48 52 56 37 55 34 53 36 63 53 61 74 57 58 48 68 70 62 49 40 66 69 24 62 82 55 80 46 61 35 20 - What is the highest level of education you have completed? # Answer % Count 1 No formal education 1.56% 1 Elementary / Primary (Pre- 2 0.00% 0 K to 6) Middle / Junior High 3 1.56% 1 School (grades 7 - 8) High School (grades 9 - 4 0.00% 0 12), no diploma / GED. High school graduate, 5 10.94% 7 received diploma / GED. 6 Some college, no degree 21.88% 14 7 Associate's (2 year) degree 7.81% 5 8 Trade certificate 12.50% 8 9 Technology degree 1.56% 1 10 Bachelor's (4 year) degree 20.31% 13 11 Master's degree 18.75% 12 12 Doctorate degree 0.00% 0 13 No answer 3.13% 2 Total 100% 64 21 - What is your current employment status? # Answer % Count 1 Employed 60.94% 39 2 Self-employed 6.25% 4 3 Retired 10.94% 7 Unable to work, not 4 1.56% 1 retired Out of work and not 5 1.56% 1 currently looking for work Out of work and looking 6 3.13% 2 for work 7 Homemaker 1.56% 1 8 Student 0.00% 0 9 Other: 7.81% 5 10 No answer 6.25% 4 Total 100% 64 Other: Other: Under employed - not wanted Elected Official Indian Freelance writer Council Member 22 - What is your current marital status? # Answer % Count 1 Single (never married) 15.63% 10 2 Married 31.25% 20 3 Separated 4.69% 3 4 Divorced 14.06% 9 5 Common Law Marriage 1.56% 1 6 Widowed 14.06% 9 Committed Relationship, 7 4.69% 3 not living together Domestic Partner, living 8 6.25% 4 together 9 Other: 1.56% 1 10 No answer 6.25% 4 Total 100% 64 Other: Other: Blanket Married 23 - What is your MCT affiliation, check all that apply: # Answer % Count 1 Enrolled MCT citizen 51.43% 54 2 Married to a MCT citizen 4.76% 5 MCT descendant, not 3 0.95% 1 enrolled Parent of an enrolled MCT 4 10.48% 11 citizen 5 Enrolled in another 0.95% 1 federally-recognized tribe. Please specify: Live on one of the band 6 12.38% 13 reservations of the MCT Work on one of the band 7 9.52% 10 reservations of the MCT 8 Friend of the MCT 2.86% 3 9 Other: 2.86% 3 10 No answer 3.81% 4 Total 100% 105 Enrolled in another federally-recognized tribe. Please specify: Enrolled in another federally-recognized tribe. Please specify: Other: Other: Mille Lacs Band of Ojibwe Member Thrive on White Earth Reservation Enrolled member of Mille Lacs Band of Ojibwe 24 - Where do you live? # Answer % Count I live on one of the band 1 reservations. The 76.56% 49 reservation I live on is: I do not live on any of the 2 20.31% 13 band reservations. 3 Other: 0.00% 0 4 No answer 3.13% 2 Total 100% 64 I live on one of the band reservations. The reservation I live on is: I live on one of the band reservations. The reservation I live on is: Mille Lacs Band Mille Lacs Mille Lacs White Earth White Earth MLB Mille Lacs Mille Lacs Band of Ojibwe Leech Lake Mille Lacs Band of Ojibwe TDL Mille Lacs Band White Earth Leech Lake Bois Forte Bois Forte White Earth White Earth Reservation Mille Lacs Band W.E. L.L. Grand Portage Mille Lacs Bois Forte Grand Portage Grand Portage Grand Portage Mille Lacs Band of Ojibwe Fond du Lac band Mille Lacs Dist 3 Mille Lac Band of Ojibwe Leech Lake Mille Lac Other: Other: 25 - Comments and/or suggestions: Comments and/or suggestions: Uniform Election Process Executive director at MCT must be ethical no variation from law and policies we need a new one peoples voices included don't reinvent the wheel Review blood quantum requirement. It is creating a nonacceptance issue for our youth. Increased knowledge to members local and remote and their descendents Each drive should have their own constitution and enrollment criteria. Grandchildren blood from two or more tribes not recognized as any band member. Education is a Must! Fair Representation to ensure the larger tribes don't over run smaller tribes Work with the people you represent @ MCT and RBC levels Good Job, we are making progress! Keep at it. Miguech for coming Member not citizen! I would like to see a video of the Hy of MCT-(using the Burris Report?) put together by ALL six nations Stop using citizen!!! I am not a citizen, I am a member, I belong!!! Tribal members only, why are allowing white people in and having input on our government Culture needs to be a #1 addition to constitution and language also. What has TEC done for Mille Lacs. Thank you for the opportunity to provide input Maybe to look at the per capita given to underage. It is ruining the use to be able to know they have more money than they have ever had in their lives. Takes away motivation for being a citizen with constructive ideas, thoughts, and actions. It's a waste of fund money when most of this is spent on drugs! Question 24 feels redundant I think MCT is obsolete! Needs to disband but federal administrator is threatening to recognize tribe. Good session I enjoyed the format, minimize individuals from dominating sessions A good start! Way to put this together on short notice. It is appreciated The four smallest reservations are the majority vote on the TEC. The 2 biggest reservations representing 70% of the MCT membership and the only 2 that aren't able to do perhaps are being out voted on issues that could benefit their reservations. My home is not a tribal home but meetings held by MCT. My tribe reservation helps me because I am an elder