This is in response to the article in the Bemidji pioneer on the independent panel on redistricting. Amongst the who’s who of Minnesota’s political past, there wasn’t one member of this “panel” that consisted of any tribal leaders or members to provide a representation or insight of our presence and our concerns here in Minnesota (mainly northern Minnesota) what so ever. Once again we are subjected to inconsideration and refused a seat at the decision-making tables that might open doors for us to regain a voice in matters that concern the policies that effect our natural resources and the Minnesota environment, which we have right to by treaty of law. By discretely disenfranchising our communities, we, as Native Americans do not have an equal opportunity to be elected to local offices, Congress, or the Minnesota House and Senate Districts.
The right to effectively participate in the political process was never negotiated as part of the Treaties that enabled the stealing and exploitation of our native land. I think the moral, conscious decision these ‘High-powered officials’ could make is to designate a Congressional District, State House seats and State Senate Districts that include Red Lake, Leech Lake and White Earth Indian reservations that will enable the Anishinaabeg Nations to take our rightful place amongst the decision makers of our state as part of the redistricting process. When will we have the democracy that meets our standards as well as those we helped and enabled to thrive here? When will our leaders stand up and fight for the equality their people deserve?
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