"... THIS CONSTITUTION, AND THE LAWS OF THE UNITED STATES WHICH SHALL BE MADE IN PURSUANCE THEREOF; AND ALL TREATIES MADE, OR WHICH SHALL BE MADE, UNDER THE AUTHORITY OF THE UNITED STATES, SHALL BE THE SUPREME LAW OF THE LAND;..."
Article 6, U.S. Constitution
While the following items may be dated, they are just as important today as they were when originally written.
Sovereignty is a word we hear often in today's Indian society, but what does sovereignty mean?
By: Janet McCloud
This is an article written in 1980 by Janet McCloud. She expresses the emotions and obvious concerns felt by many of us regarding our individual Nations, our communities, and our governments. It is not too long of a read, and it will definitely make you think about what it means to be a Sovereign Nation. I commend Ms. McCloud on her words, wisdom, and leadership abilities.
Along with many other people in our communities today, I believe that the revival of traditional values, culture, and language need to be addressed. However as my freind Raven has proven to me as quoted by Louis Owen in Dark River, "You're forgetting that change is traditional, too". To me, that says that we can have our cake and eat it too! We have the ability to change the future, remember our past, and hold onto those parts of ourselves which they cannot steal.
From Part II - Our Leadership Crisis By: Janet McCloud
Traditionally, Indian leaders are the servants of their people. Within daily social life, they are outwardly indistinguishable from the rest of the people. Ceremonially, they stand out, arrayed in the beautiful gifts made for them by their grateful people.
The behavior of Indian leaders must be above reproach, for they are selected for their virtues, not their weaknesses. They must be brave, alert and intelligent, kind and compassionate to all people, especially to children and Elders, industrious, and generous. They must have integrity and commitment, and be the peacemakers, providers and defenders of their people.
Indian leaders walk ahead of their people to be the first to confront dangers that may lie unseen upon the path of life. They must always lead the people by the examples of their daily lives! They must always be available to listen to the voices of their people, for all decisions must come from the people!
The Indian people love and respect this type of leader who eventually becomes a legend, forever immortalized in the hearts and memories of the grateful people they served. These are the examples held up to your youth-dedicated leaders who unselfishly sacrifice their own personal welfare for the benefit of their people, some to the supreme sacrifice of their own lives.
Make sure to read Janet's Warning!
Home Links E-Mail Teal Lake Singers Niizh Miishikeag Grand River Odawa Information
Northern Michigan University BIA (Department of the Interior)
Anishinaabemowin Pow-Wow directory Guest Book
last updated 21 September 2003
Visitors to this page: