Those powers and rights that allow us to express that sovereignty are sacred, and we will continue to fight to safeguard those rights in honor of our ancestors and in order to preserve a future for our children. Failure to do so would surrender the very essence of who we are as a people. I realize there are those tribal members who feel that we have already given up our sovereignty and that we are fighting a losing battle. Many others are disillusioned with the system and cynical towards those working to preserve our identity as an Indian tribe. Apathy is one of the most difficult things to overcome. The tribe is important to me, and its preservation and betterment are the things that motivate me. During those times when I question the correctness of the path that I have chosen, it is thoughts of those tribal members that came before me and those that will come after me that motivate me to continue on this path and realize the importance of doing so. The Nation, and its leaders, must continue to fight the good fight, and, hopefully, we can retain our inherent character as Indian people and in the process preserve a legacy for our future generations. ~Mark A. Chavaree, Esq. February 8, 1998
Posted on: Wed, 16 Apr 2014 23:57:48 +0000
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