I'd like to move back and run for tribal council....

[Wetzelbill]

On my reservation (Blackfeet) the council is slightly less popular than a venereal disease. Last summer they voted themselves a huge pay raise, meanwhile they do little for the people. It's embarassing. They now make like 62 grand a year, while the aggregate income for individuals in the country is about 12 thousand a year. I remember watching a national Indian conference on C-Span a few years ago and all the tribes were represented by intelligent articulate people, and one Blackfeet guy was called on to ask Byron Dorgan a question and he started yelling around about how good Dorgan was and never asked a question. He was nonsensical and made an ass out of himself. I couldn't quit laughing, because that sums up Blackfeet leadership forever. I always hear stories about how stupid they are at national and regional conferences. It's sort of funny in a way, but it also hurts. I mean why can't they elect people who are capable? It's like the reservation version of Bush. They are corrupt, ignorant and self-serving.

I don't know, I think progressive policy has a place on Indian reservations. I'm beginning to feel obligated to do it. My grandfather was a former tribal chairman and was president of the National Congress of American Indians. I've been told I'd probably be the most frustrated person in the world, because I'd be surrounded by ineptness all the time, but I know at least one guy on the council who I think I could work with. I think I'm going to pick a district and see what I can do, you know? :)

I was thinking I'd raise a certain amount of money, it wouldn't take much, and run an actual campaign. People really don't do that back home. They throw a few signs up and that's about it. I want to begin a movement. Create a good grassroots base and utilize that to enact good policy. I don't want to be just one guy who gets on the council and never does anything. People back home need hope. Right now they have none.

[Steerpike]

1. Good Luck!

That's a hell of a thing you have planned. But, it's the most honorable thing you could possibly do with your life. A true brave finds his path and walks it, never strays no matter how difficult the path becomes. And, to be a leader to your people is as difficult a path any person can undertake.

[CountAllVotes]

2. best of luck to you Wetzelbill!

We need honest and devoted people in tribal positions. I hope you are able to do what you are hoping to do.

Take care of yourself in your journey and the very best of luck! :D

:dem:

[yellerpup]

3. Get out there and make a difference.

You're a great writer and a great communicator. Time to pick a district... Good luck!

[Broken_Hero]

4. Good luck with that, if you choose to do it...

In my experience, the hardest thing is getting in...well, good with the families that actually have pull.

In our tribe, the council is basically run by three families, and bringing in "new" blood is very hard....

[Vincardog]

5. Good luck. You know the best way to build a movement is to be for real improvements.

What do you want to accomplish? What changes do you want to make in the first month? Year?