17 10 189 https://www.dawnlandvoices.org/collections/files/original/02e7ec0e8a7bb252cdf99ed7affc5b86.pdf 269b71b46762d7e339a6dee51c0bbba1 PDF Text Text P E K tt, £ 3 ui667 A llia n c e I Nao-pnCl Orfsaizuiee PatUgePild Ptneh No, 1 4 Oraeo, Malar 401 November Bingo a boon to the Island THE BIG MONEY — Lt. Gov. Joseph Francis, left, and Miles Francis, Bingo Committee president, present $2,500 each to Clara Chessie (left) and Cora Tate, who split the $5,000 jackpot. The full-card bingo game was a surprise to the 502 Sunday players last month. .. officials feared too much commotion with advance notice of the award. DA re-opens case of Micmac killed by car ELLSWORTH — The controversial case of a Micmac blueberry raked killed by a hit-and-run motorist will be re opened, a legal official confirmed. District Attorney Michael Povich told Wabanaki Alliance that he will conduct an investigation of the Aug. 17 incident in Deblois, in which a deputy sheriff later pleaded “no contest” to charges he left the scene of a “personal injury accident.” Deputy Sheriff Murray B. Seavey, 50, of Cherryfield, paid a $100 fine on his no contest plea to the charge. Possible fines range from $25 to $1,000 for the offense. Since the court action, a number of area residents and others have complained that Seavey should have been charged with manslaughter; and that $100 was a small price to pay for a man’ death. s Because “the hue and cry has been so loud,” Povich said, “This is not dead, this is not the end of it. Im re-opening it, I’ reviewing it. I will issue a public m statement, probably a written state ment, that will be available to anyone.” Povich has m et with editors of both the Ellsworth American and The Bangor Daily News, and both of those newspapers have printed editorials critical of the handling of the hit-andrun death of Joseph B. Peters, 20, a Micmac from Big Cove, New Bruns wick. The first editorial to call for further investigation was printed in the September issue of Wabanaki Alliance. (Continued on page 8) INDIAN ISLAND — Five years of Sunday bingo gam es culminated last month in an award five times the size of the usual jackpot. An average crowd of 502 players were on hand for the surprise climax. The prize was split between tw o grandmothers, Cora Tate of Eddington, and Clara Chessie of Lincoln, who both attained full-card bingo in 52 calls (there are 25 numbered spaces per card). Mrs. Tate has played at the Penobscot tribal gam es since they started; ‘ v e T never won too much, $50 maybe,” she said. She will spend some of her $2,500 share of the award on her grandson, coming to visit her from Germany, for Christmas. Mrs. Chessie said she com es to bingo “a couple times a month .” A well-known patron of the Island bingo games, Shirley Hathaway, was not present for the big award. She is able to handle 36 cards at once, entirely by memory. Asked why the $5,000 award was released, Bingo Committee President Miles Francis said, “you’ got to treat ve your customers right. W e’ second only re to the Seminoles (a Florida Indian tribe) in Indian beano.” Francis is proud of the job he and his staff have done with the Indian Island Bingo gam es and proceeds. Funding for ch ildren ’s re crea tio n p r o g ra m s and “Christmas turkeys for every household on the reservation” are among many things supported by bingo. The committee a branch of tribal government, has been generous with grants to causes it seem s worthy of financial support. In addition to the Sunday evening games, the committee oversees operation of a game room (mechanical gam es of chance) and a snack bar, both of which provide income. Bingo and the gam e room are som e times criticsed by those opposed to legal gambling, but Francis replies, “it’ either s the Indian Island Bingo or I don’ know t how we’ keep this building open.” d Francis said bingo was initially to support the costs of operating the tribal Community Building, built in 1976-1977. “W e had a building and no way to support it,” he said. Bingo gam es started with $1,400 from the Penobscot Nation tribal council, and 30 people attended the first game. The first gam es gave the winners $5 for “regulars,” and a $75 jackpot. Regular games are now $50, ten tim es the original figure. “Consolation" prizes are now $ 1,000. “As the crowd grew, the prizes grew, ’ Francis explained. A majority of the players are non-Indians, many from out-of-town. Original organizers of the Island bingo w ere Francis, chairman, Donald Nelson, Manfred Francis and Sam Sapiel. The current committee includes Lt. Gov. Joseph (Jo-Jo) Francis, Martin Neptune, Donald Nelson and Manfred Francis. Irving Ranco has been appointed bingo manager. Francis commented, “the enjoyment I get out of it is seeing the benefits that the tribe as a whole” receives. Other things sponsored by bingo in clude bean suppers, parties and supple mental support of meals for the elderly. Francis wins Lt.Gov. slot INDIAN ISLAND — Joseph (Jo-Jo) Francis won his bid for the tribal lieutenant governor’ job handily, edging s out four com petitors early in the returns. At final count, Francis, age 47, tallied 149 votes, after the Sept. 2 election. Candidate Eugene Loring, 60, garnered 101 ballots; Nicholas Dow, age 37, cap tured 88 votes; Neil Phillips, age 43, 33 ballots; and R ose Scribner, age 40, ten votes. At one point during the election, Francis complained he was accused of using tribal stationery in his campaign. He emphatically denied the charge. “I intend to work with the Governor and the council. I personally believe that I have a good working relationship with the council,” Francis told Wabanaki Alliance. Asked if he would seek the top job in 1982 now held by Gov. Timothy Love, (Continued on page 8 ) Group seeks to impeach Gov. J.H. Nicholas PLEASANT POINT - Ralph Dana and more than 160 other Passamaquoddy tribal members have signed a petition seeking to remove Gov. J. Hartley Nicholas from office. His term ends next fall. Dana said he has submitted his petition to tribal leadership, but there has been no action in recent weeks. Asked for comment, Nicholas said he is biding his time, and has not yet decided how he will respond. He said he contacted U.S. Bureau of Indian Affairs official Harry A. Rainbolt, and Rainbolt told him: “No way. I’ not going to get involved in m your internal affairs.” Both Nicholas and Dana have contacted tribal legal counsel Thomas N. Tureen about the matter. Said Nicholas, “I called Tom up and he said ‘ think I could I persuade them (BIA) to send someone down.’ I said, let us deal with this our selves. This is after all an internal affair.” However, in an Oct. 2 letter to Dana, Tureen stated in part, “it would seem to me that the assistant secretary for Indian Affairs or his delegate should supervise a recall election and that a recall petition, in the absence of specific tribal action, should be submitted to the Assistant Secretary in the first instance.” As in a related story about the firing of Pleasant Point’ health director (in this s issue), the petition drive involves Peter Bailey. Dana was involved in an earlier petition to hold a referendum on adoption. The vote was to determine if someone “with less than one quarter Indian blood should be adopted into the tribe.” A date was set for the vote, but Nicholas cancelled the referendum, maintaining the petition “contains forgeries, duplication of names, and’ there are people who re quested to take their names off.” Nicholas complained that his m other’ s name appeared on the petition, and that she asserted it was a forgery. Dana said (Continued on page 10) �Page 2 Wabanaki Alliance November 1981 editorials The perfect place We have no personal stake in the sale of a piece of Indian Island property advertised in this issue. But we think the Penobscot Nation and its members could have a big stake in it. For sale is the former home of Molly Spotted Elk. a celebrated Penobscot who married a French journalist. She herself was a writer, poet, professional dancer and spiritualist in traditional Indian ways. That is only background. The house itself is exceedingly well constructed, with fine woodworking and other details . .. it does require some work. The property includes Penobscot River frontage and a deep lot. The Indian Island Elementary School is practically across the street, and the location is near the bridge to the City of Old Town and major roads. All this is leading up to a proposal: why not acquire the property for a tribal museum, gallery, and offices? The asking price is not exorbitant, and this could be the tribe's opportunity to grab some needed space for a worthwhile project. In fact, to erect a new building of comparable size would cost many times the asking price for this property. A tribal museum and cultural center should not be a back-burner issue for the Penobscots. Face it, language and culture can easily slip from your grasp, just as many rare artifacts have probably been lost forever. Perhaps this new museum/cultural center could offer a permanent home for the work of Dr. Frank T. Seibert on the Penobscot language. It could certainly offer a home for many treasures that, without such protection, may be buried forever. Second warning This newspaper has sounded a warning bell before about decreasing federal aid to Indians. It's happening. The Penobscot-Passamaquoddy land claims were won none too soon. The Indian community should realize that President Reagan is in many respects opposed to the goals of Indians. Don t look to him or his administration for help. All of us are feeling the squeeze, and more cuts are inevitable. How hard, and when they fall, may be negotiable. But the message is unmistakable. Indians had better develop economic and financial resources with true self-sufficiency in mind. We don't have the answers, but we urge tribal governments to make some answers a top priority. If you don’ it is your people, and t you yourselves who will suffer. You can’ just play the game, you must be ahead of the game. You t cannot gamble on unlimited government support. The cycle of dependency is drawing to a close. The Robert Abbe museum at Bar Harbor. Editorial Further inquiry This community is not satisfied with the disposition that prosecutors and courts have made of the case involving the death of Joseph B. Peters, the young man killed on Route 193 in Deblois on Aug. 17. The legal consequences of this fatality, so far, have been a nolo contendre plea by a part-time deputy sheriff. Murray B. Seavey. He pleaded nolo contendre to a charge of leaving the scene of an accident and was fined $100. The penalty seems greatly disproportionate to the offense. If Seavey did indeed leave the scene of a fatal accident for which he was respon sible. He has been at pains to emphasize that he did not plead guilty to any charge but only declined to make a legal defense. There seem s to be an intimation here that something more was involved in the incident than was disclosed in the legal proceedings. The shadow of doubt cast over the episode is sufficient to warrant a further grand jury inquiry into exactly what did happen when Peters was killed. Citizens have raised a number of questions: was anyone else with Seavey? Did he report the accident as hit and run offense by an unknown motorist at once, or immediately disclose it as a mishap in which he was involved? Is there any evidence on the predicament of Peters when hit, i.e. was he lying on the thoroughfare, sitting on it, or walking across it or alongside it? If Seavey did hit Peters and leave the scene, did any other vehicle strike him prior to Seavey's return? The authorities have dealt with the death of a young man in a manner entirely too off-hand and superficial. The com munity is entitled to a more complete report. It has no citizens so mean and lowly that their death is adequately punished by a $100 fine. [The above editorial is reprinted from the Oct. 8 edition of The Ellsworth American.] Editors wanted for training course TUCSON. Arizona — A program that has trained journalists in newspaper editing positions in the last two years is accepting applications for the 1982 ses sion. Wabanaki Alliance Those accepted into the 1982 Editing Program for Minority Journalists will work with a variety of editors during the eight-week session at the University of Arizona iournalism department in Tucson. Vol. 5, No. 11 Member — Maine Press Association Steven Cartwright, Editor Reporters Diane Newell Wilson Brenda Polchies Wishful thinking Wouldn’ it be nice if once, just once, the people of Pleasant Point t put aside their political differences, sat down together, and agreed that there are more important things to do than bicker and backstab. What would the elders of the Passamaquoddy Tribe have said about all this 300 years ago? For that matter, what do the elders of the tribe think now? November 1981 Published monthly by Wabanaki Alliance, through a sustaining grant from the Penobscot Nation, under contract with Diocesan Human Relations Services, Inc. Offices at 95 Main Street, Orono, Maine 04473. Telephone [207] 866-4903. Typeset by the Penobscot Tim es Company. Printed by the Ellsworth American. Board of Directors Jean Chavaree, Penobscot Nation, [chairman] Donna Loring, Penobscot Nation Jeannette LaPlante, Central Maine Indian Assoc. Phone 827-6219 Phone 532-9442 Indian Island Old Town Old Town A non-profit corporation. Contributions are deductible for income tax purposes. Rates: S5 per year [12 issues]; $6 Canada and overseas; $10 for institutions [schools, government, business, etc.] �Wabanaki Alliance November 1981 Page 3 letters A Stetson student Artifacts, progress Stetson To the editor: I am a fifth grade student. I am doing a research project on the Penobscot Indians. I would appreciate any information you can send me. Michelle Miles Doing school report Stetson To the editor: I am a 6th grader in Stetson, and I am doing a report on Indians with two of my friends. We would appreciate any infor mation you could send us on the Penobscot Indians. Thank you so much for your prompt attention to this. Barbra Bellefleur Deserved equality Lowell, Mass. To the editor: I am a student at the University of Lowell in Lowell, Massachusetts. I am writing a research paper which will direct itself toward the Native American and his legal battle for his deserved equality and civil liberties in the United States. It would be appreciated if you could send me any material and/or biblio graphies that you might have collected as regards th is s u b je c t . I w o u ld b e h a p p y t o submit payment for any of these materials upon notification of a fee due. I am especially interested in the recent litigation in your state involving the Penobscot tribe and the Passamaquoddy reservation. Kathy Brown A few errors Presque Isle To the editor: In October's Wabanaki Alliance; “Micmacs seek federal recognition status,” there were a few errors. The second para graph, line seven, about the Houlton Band of Maliseets: The Maliseets have agreed to adopt us into their band, but thus far Micmacs are resentful to join due to the management of earlier years. The Indians around the Northern Aroostook County have not received much service in the past, and they feel that it would not be any different in the future if they were adopted in the Houlton Band. John L. Morey Secretary Association of Aroostook Indians Dover-Foxcroft To the editor: I grew up in Woodsville, N.H., on the Connecticut River. In that area there are large intervales along the river and there is an old corn mill in North Haverhill, and just about one half mile north o f W oods ville, one was uncovered on top of a bluff at the “Narrows,” when the road was being widened. Unfortunately, progress took its usual course, and it was blasted away. Many of the farmers find artifacts when they plow their fields, and the old folks used to tell how the brick yard in W oods ville was closed because of burials found there. Thought this bit might be of interest to you. Keep up the good work. Ellie Barnes Needs information Stetson To the editor: I'm a fifth grade student. I am doing a research project on the Penobscot Indians. I’ appreciate any information you could d send me. Thank you for your earliest attention to this. Katrina Veeder German interest T j-, H m au, W est G erm any To the editor: J y o u will be surprised when you get a letter from Germany from a friend of the Passamaquoddy Indian reservation. I’ befriended Mr. Wolfgang Ritter, ve the father of Mr. (Roger) Ritter in Maine, an Indian member of the Passamaquoddy Tribe. I would like to go there to this reserva tion, but before I must learn the language of the Passamaquoddy. So please send to me the newspaper of the Passamaquoddy and Penobscot Indians. I will pay when I get your newspapers. Thanks in advance and write to me soon. Kurt Gernhand ! ^ WASHINGTON — Three Washington lawyers w ere awarded a record fee of $10.6 million for their work on behalf of eight Sioux Indian tribes. The lawyers won a judgment of $106 million from the United States in settlement for the taking of seven million acres of land in the Black Hills, South Dakota. The fees w ere awarded to Arthur Lazarus, Jr., on behalf of his law firm, and to Marvin J. Sonosky and William H. Payne. Lazarus told the New York Tim es that he did not have “the slightest idea” of how many hours of work he and the other lawyers had done since they started rep resenting the tribes on a contingency basis, almost 25 years ago. Lazarus said the “bulk of the work” had been done by Millinocket himself, his partner Richard Schifter and Sonosky. To the editor: I’ a high school senior and I m doing a m Chief Judge Daniel M. Friedman of the term paper on the Indian Land Claims. I Court of Claims said that although the would like some information on this award to the lawyers was “m ore than subject so I could successfully com plete twice the previous highest award of my project. Thank you. s Todd Sweet 1 attorney’ fees in an Indian claims case, it was “fully justified” and “necessary to compensate the attorneys adequately for their services.” The court noted that when the three attorneys took over the case in 1956, the Sioux had already lost their case Augusta twice in court. Term paper Accurate, thorough Link to heritage Winter Garden, Fla. To the editor: I moved a few months ago and haven t received a paper since. Would you please check your records and let me know if my subscription for this year has run out. I really miss this link to my heritage. Also please send information on classi fied ads and space ads. Rachel McGillivray Subscribe! To the editor: Having talked with representatives from the Penobscot Nation and Central Maine Indian Association, I understand that Wabanaki Alliance covers Native American issues in Maine thoroughly and accurately. Because of our agency’ commitment to s serve as resource agents to the state s Indian CETA prime sponsors, as well as a personal interest in your efforts, please enter our subscription to your paper. Richard H. Bulger State Employment & Training Council Payne, who told the Daily Oklahoman that his share of the fees would be about $1.5 million, said: “I’ tell you this about ll HEALTH CENTER DIRECTOR Master’ D egree in Health Adminis s tration and Planning preferred. E x perience required. Knowledge of gov ernment contracting and budgeting process, management skills. Send re sume to: Personnel Director, Pleasant Point, Perry, Maine 04667. For further information call 853-2551 ext. 226. Indian cases. You have to be a young man when you take ’ em. I w ouldnt take another Indian case now.” Clarification In a story in last month’ Wabanaki s Alliance, about Dr. Frank Seibert's work on a Penobscot language dictionary, the name of Mary Rhine was inadvertently left out. Rhine, a tribal member, has contributed a great deal to the project, working on numerous 3x5 cards that define Indian words. She has been with the project from the beginning, according to anthropologist Pauleena Seeber, assistant to Dr. Seibert. Also working on the project part time, since the beginning, is Paul Francis Jr., a ribal member. Brief vocabulary lists are being pre pared for the flyer that is circulated on Indian Island. CALICO BEAN BAG CAT This delightful kitten will bring a smile to the young and old alike. Great project for the Christmas Bazaar. Kit includes fabric, pattern, floss and instructions. All you add are the beans. Finished cat measures 10” long with a 7” tail. Send check or M.O. $3.50 kit, 35c postage and handling: Rachel McGillivray, 48 So. Park 36-303 Winter Garden, Fla. 32787 (Limited Supply). PUBLIC NOTICE The Penobscot Indian Children’ s Center today announced its policy for meals served under the Child Care Food Program. Meals will be made available at no separate charge without regard to race, color, or national origin to children at the Penobscot Indian Children’ Center. s �Page 4 Wabanaki Alliance November 1981 Tureen's case G ay Head Indians okay land claims GAY HEAD, Mass. — In a settlement designed by Maine land claims lawyer Thomas N. Tureen, the Wampanoag Indians here voted approval to a package that will deliver them land valued at $2.8 million. The Gay Head Wampanoags on Mar tha's Vineyard are separate from Mashpee Wampanoags on Cape Cod. Mashpees have been unable to prove their status as a tribe. Tureen, who visited Indian Island in Maine recently for the funeral of Pauline Love, mother of Penobscot Gov. Timothy Love, told Wabanaki Alliance he was generally happy with the vote of 115-60. He said the margin of support was similar to that of the Penobscot-Passamaquoddy settlement voted on last year. The out-of-court deal with the Gay Head CENSUS STUDY — Jean Chavaree, m em ber of the Penobscot Nation census Taxpayers Association resolves seven committee, studies the “roll” with Tribal Genealogist S. Glenn Starbird. Those persons years of struggle by the Indians. listed on the census of 1860 are considered full-blooded Penobscot Indians. Many A wire service story quoted tribal decisions are yet to b e resolved on m ore recent census data. Committee chairman is Sadie council president Gladys Widdiss as Mitchell. Poetry M oose on the loose Moose on the loose Not to be tagged Slaughtered or quartered No bounty on my head Just my rack of antlers Wading through the swamps Eating the tender grasses Jogging through the pines Nibbling at the tender buds Galloping through the flat lands Catching the winds of sweet scents Pausing at the water’ ed ge to listen s Hearing the frogs play bass And the birds sing soprano And the crickets play the reeds And I hear the partridge drum All these sounds I hear When I stop and listen Whem I am on the loose I hear only the music Of my hooves Pounding the turf Splashing through the swamps Beating my tune on the earth Then I stop and laugh At the thought of My legs as drumsticks My drumsticks beating Beating the earth drum The earth drum tightly stretched Over a hoop of peace And laced with hope All of us creatures Forming a beat All of us created beings Formed with a beat Vibrating throughout the universe Unity in this place Unity in that place All loosely tied together With each beat Resounding in each other’ chambers s Carrying on the tradition And the chant of the creator Oh, it feels good to be On the loose Beating on the earth with my feet Dancing in the winds, yaaaa yaaa. Sipsis (Sipsis is a Penobscot from Indiign Island. Her name means “Little Bird.”) Bailey case: On or off the census? PLEASANT POINT — Peter Bailey is 37 years old and considers himself a Passamaquoddy Indian. In fact, he speaks the language with ease. It’ not surprising, since he grew up s with his adoptive Passamaquoddy parents, Josephine and P eter Bailey Sr., on the reservation. The couple was childless, and in 1946, a Roman Catholic Sister of Mercy, the late Sister Claire, pre sented the Baileys with an “Indian baby.” "relieved that we’ now off that dime re we’ been stuck on for the past several ve years. I'm also pleased with the margin. I’ been worried for the past four or five ve days.” However, 43 tribal mem bers filed a motion in U.S. District Court to intervene in the settlement, claiming it was unfair. “It’ a splinter group and they tried to s sway the vote,” Widdiss said. The settlement must now be approved by the Massachusetts Legislature, and then by Congress. Maine’ $81.5 million settlement was s first approved by the Maine Legislature in Spring 1980, and then by C ongress the following fall. The town of Gay Head retained rights to a 50-foot strip of beach to guarantee access to the water by non-Indians. Martha’ Vineyard is a small island where s many wealthy people have summer homes. Alcoholism agency moves ORONO — Wabanaki Corporation, an inter-tribal Maine alcoholism counseling agency, has moved its head offices to Bangor. Located for several years in a former Catholic convent on Main Street in Orono, the nonprofit corporation is now housed at One Kenduskeag Plaza, in the downtown area. Director Steve Francis said the rent is considerably less for the Bangor space, which consists of two large rooms on the first floor. Francis said the Wabanaki Corporation board of directors approved m oving the offices a couple of weeks ago. Rent was expected to be increased about $200 per month at the 93 Main St. building, owned by St. Mary’ Parish and the Roman s Catholic Diocese of Portland. The new phone number for the agency is 947-6519/6510. Wabanaki Corporation is set up to serve alcoholics in five communities; the two sister Passamaquoddy reservations, the Penobscot reservation, and two off-reservation groups: Association o f Aroostook Indians and Central Maine Indian Associa tion. Francis indicated federal funding of the agency is secure for the current fiscal year. ; BIA boss writes book WASHINGTON — Theodore W. Taylor, form er Deputy Commissioner of Indian Affairs from 1966 to 1970, is writing a book on the Bureau of Indian Affairs . Peter Bailey was placed on the census in 1952, and has been on it ever since. But in the 1960s, a tribal gover nor had him reclassified as non-Indian, although still a tribal member. Bailey said the original 1952 paperwork is lost. After a recent petition drive by Ralph Dana and others on the issue of adoption, it appeared the tribe would vote on whether or not to adopt anyone into the tribe with less than one quarter Indian blood. The petition would directly affect Bailey, who so far cannot prove his blood quantum. Gov. J. Hartley Nicholas of Pleasant Point believes the petition, which he rejected as invalid because of alleged forgeries and duplication of names, is aimed soley at Bailey. At a joint tribal council m eeting following Dana's petition, Bailey’ case s was reviewed, but he was not removed. So for the time being, Peter Bailey, who with his Passamaquoddy wife, Shirley, has five children on the tribal census, is himself a tribal member. Bailey said some people may resent his college education. Said Governor Nicholas, “a man who in his mind and heart thinks and feels Indian, to treat him like this is unfair.” Old Mashpee m eeting house. O ld m e etin g house faces fix-u p MASHPEE, Mass. — The old Meeting House here, originally built to “civilize the savages” by Europeans settling Cape Cod, is due for restoration. According to the Mashpee Indian news letter Mittark, efforts are underway to raise money to restore and maintain the historic site, along with the Old Schoolhouse, built in 1831 and also known as Ockway Chapel. The schoolhouse represents the white man’ efforts to teach reading and writing s to natives. Mashpee was then designated a Plantation, and it was thought that Indians would be fully assimilated into white culture. Mashpees became known as “praying Indians” because of their early and complete conversion to Christianity. The newsletter reports that Massa chusetts at one time provided the death penalty for persons caught educating Indians. The Mashpee M eeting House continues to serve the Indians, and is open to visitors. So far, friends of the Meeting House have raised more than $2,500 through “Las Vegas Nights” at Dunfey’ s, and the Outrigger Hotel in Hyannis. �Wabanakd Alliance November 1981 Page 5 Sisters of Mercy to stay with Indian schools SCHOOL LUNCH BREAK WHEN — Photographed during World War II era, these workers in the Indian Island school lunch program [and others] w ere from left, Mary Ketchum Lewis, Jim Lewis, Cecilia Ketchum Banks, state Indian agent Hiram Hall [or Cyde Cummings?], and Clara Paul Schaeffer. [Photo courtesy of John Banks] INDIAN ISLAND - The Sisters oi Mercy, associated with Penobscot and Passamaquoddy reservations for more than a century, will continue to be involved in the administration and teach ing at local schools. That was the word from Gov. Timothy Love, in answer to a question from Wabanaki Alliance. The Governor said there are no changes anticipated in the administrative structure of the Indian Island Elementary School, of which Sister Helen McKeogh is principal. The school committee is composed of tribal members. Although several years away, Love said a new school building is in early planning stages. It could cost an estimated $4 million he said, and would be located on landfill near the community building, which houses a tribal gymnasium. The gym would serve the school’ needs, he s said. The new school would probably include grades seven and eight (junior high). Currently, the Island school handles kindergarten through sixth grade. At Pleasant Point, where Sister Mau reen Wallace is principal, the Beatrice Rafferty School includes junior high grades, in a separate building. Sister Beatrice was a school teacher at the reservation many years ago. At Indian Township, the junior high school is part of the reservation complex, and for the first time ever, the school has a principal who is not a Sister of Mercy. He is Ed Vandall, a Chippewa-Cree Indian. Indian Island continues to use an aged schoolhouse with various wings built on over the years. The tw o Passamaquoddy reservations have m ore modern schools. The old Township school was torn down following years of vandalism. The old Pleasant Point school was burned by an arsonist who was apparently never iden tified. Resolution fails At a Penobscot tribal council meeting earlier this year, tribal m em ber Mildred Akins attempted to get a resolution passed that called for resumption of religious classes in the Indian Island school. She further called for a guarantee that the “Sisters of Mercy by tradition be reaffirmed the full protection of the Nation, and, continuance of the teaching role and security they have received in past years.” The double resolution failed to pass. Mrs. Akins, a devout Catholic, based her resolution on the fact that “the traditional practices of the Penobscot Nation have, since formal education was introduced to the Nation, been carried out by teachers being Sisters of Mercy; religious classes over these hundreds of years have been taught in our schools by Catholic Religious Sisters and Clergy since the 1700’ since religious classes s; have been removed from the school on the FOREST TECHNICIAN The Penobscot Nation Dept, of Natural Resources is currently seeking a forest technician. Duties include overseeing timber operations, planning, supervising, inspecting, reports, etc. Also, assisting Dept, of Natural Resources personnel in various areas o f forest management. Qualifications include a 2 year associates degree in forest management but appropriate experience may be substituted. Must be in good physical condition and willing to work out of doors. This is a permanent full time position, 40 hours per week. Salary is $10,500$15,000 depending on experience and qualifications. Deadline for applications is November 20,1981. Please send resum es to Dept, of Employment, P.O. Box 405, Old Town, Maine 04468 attention D. Sellas. Penobscot attends child abuse workshop PORTLAND — Angie Mitchell, an offreservation tribal member employed by Penobscot Health & Human Services, recently participated in a workshop titled, “use or abuse o f cultural diversity in the 80s.” Mitchell was a “presenter” at the work shop, which was sponsored by a Cumber land County child abuse and neglect organization, United Way, and Maine D e partment of Human Services. Among speakers w ere Gerald Talbot, president of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP). Mitchell was hired by the Indian Island health agency to serve as Southern Maine outreach worker. Store closes after 4 4 years INDIAN ISLAND — Opened in 1937, the small store operated by Mabel and Francis (Bunny) Ranco will end an era when it closes down this month. The beloved candy and food shop was featured in a recent story in this news paper. Mabel Ranco said she and her husband will enjoy retirement, but she will miss many customers. She publicly thanked the long time patrons of the store, some of whom she served as she watched them grow up, then served their children. Houlton health staff takes training AN ARTIFACT of the Maine Indian land claims settlement is this scrap of paper noting “reservations” at the elite Washington, D.C. restaurant called “Sans Souci.” The reservations w ere for Maine Indian negotiators having lunch with the Washington Post, the day before the signing of the settlement act by President Carter, Oct. 10, 1980. A recent newspaper column by Art Buchwald lamented the closing of “Sans Souci, for years a hang-out for the rich and powerful. reservation, mem bers of the Nation are now undergoing severe social value changes, which in many cases do not reflect traditional, social, moral and religious values and caring for each other.” Several Penobscot tribal members filed suit in March 1979, in U.S. District Court, to halt the teaching of religion at Indian Island school. The suit said the school was public, and teaching of religion illegal. The suit resulted in the religion class being moved out of the school building. The suit was filed by lawyer Hugh Calkins, now of Dover-Foxcroft, on behalf of Penobscots Martin Neptune, Stanley Neptune, Sipsis, and Patrick Shay (now deceased). By Brenda Polchies HOULTON — Mary London, Coordina tor of Outreach with Sally Joseph and Gloria Tomah, outreach workers for the Health Department of the Houlton Band of Maliseet Indians, have returned from Nashville, Tennessee after participating in a two week training course titled “Nutrition Awareness.” The course, held at the Ramada Inn Airpot, was scheduled from September 15th to the 25th. The session was spon sored by Indian Health Service, a segm ent o f Public Health Service, Department of Health, Education and Welfare. Various topics covered in-depth were basic nutrition, nutrition and its relation to health, lifecycle nutrition, nutrition and dental health and prom oting better nutri tion. At the conclusion of the training session, each participant was graded and received a certificate certifying them as having participated and completed this nutrition course. Indian participants from Florida, Mis sissippi, North Carolina, New York as well as Maine w ere invited to attend this session. Mabel’ is the oldest surviving store on s the reservation, and is remarkable for still selling delightful penny candies. The Rancos ignored inflation, and kept their treats affordable to the youngsters of the Island. The store only closed once, for three and one half years, when Bunny and Mabel m oved to Bridgeport, Conn, to work in the war effort. H e worked at U.S. Aluminum, she worked at General Elec tric. For about four years, Mabel operated a lunch counter with a full menu, and the counter stools remain. Actually, the Rancos have sold the freezer, handsome oak display cabinet, and other items. Prices on goods have been reduced. At various times, the following people have operated stores on Indian Island: Evelyn Sapiel, Grace Nicola, Violet Fran cis, Manfred Francis, Wally Pehrson, Pauline Shay, Irene Lewey, Gardner, Elsie Tomah, and Bruce Poolaw. Hunters' breakfast full of beans By Diane Wilson INDIAN ISLAND — A first hunters breakfast was held here Oct. 1, sponsored by the firemen of Indian Island. This year about 120 people came and there was a lot of good food. Dana Neptune cooked beans and How ard Wilson cooked grits and homemade biscuits. Also, eg gs and sausage and coffee and donuts w ere served. The firemen that helped out were Red and John Bartlett, and S.C. Francis, Francis Sapiel. There w ere three door prizes: first, a shotgun won by Rhonda McManus; second a knife won by Hope Powell; third, a compass won by Pat Knox. �Wabanaki Alliance November 1981 Page 6 P N FSnack Bar OPEN EVERY DAY / a.m. to 9 p.m. BREAKFAST SERVED DAILY SOmETHING NEW RT THE COmmUNITY BUILDING PIZZA HOT DOGS HOT BURGERS fTlERL SPECIALS C O M B IN A T IO N S SLUSHES Dairy Bar: milkshakes, Sundaes, Banana Splits Call in your order: 827-7396 BINGO: Every Sunday. IN D IA N Doors open 2 p.m IS LA N D Game starts 6 p.m. -J t O'r m ss& ; i Free for Senior Citizens & under a g e 15 The Bingo Cinema eft 9 /Q_ EVERY SATURDAY Doors open 1 2 :3 0 p.m. Show starts 1 p.m. 15 and over: 50 cents FIRST 5 0 PEOPLE GET FREE SURPRISES Qo c% % �Wabanaki Alliance November 1981 Page 7 Ex-POW visits Passamaquoddy son Wolfgang and Gertrud Ritter By Steve Cartwright INDIAN TOWNSHIP - An extra ordinary father-son reunion took place here last year when a former German POW found a long lost son in the Passa maquoddy tribe. Wolfgang Ritter revisited the crumbl ing prisoner of war camp at Princeton — where he was held, and escaped during World War II — and discovered a son Roger, now 36. whose mother is a Passa maquoddy Indian. The first meeting was tentative but not tense; and a joyous, emotionally close relationship has de veloped between the retired German travel agent and his son. a tribal housing official. All that Roger Gabriel (he has now changed his name to Ritter, which means “knight" in German) knew as a boy was that his father's name was Wolfgang . . . and that the senior Ritter knew that he had a longing to see quiet, friendly little Princeton again. Ritter and his second wife Gertrud left their home in Frankfort, Germany and flew to Maine this summer for another visit with Roger and his family. Ritter talked about the new twist his life has taken, and the past that led up to it. He speaks excellent English, and during one of his many escapes from various U.S. POW camps, he posed as a Scotsman named Johnny McGriffin, and got a job on the Illinois Central Railroad. Ritter, now 62, was captured by U.S. forces in Tunisia in 1943, and remained in the U.S. until 1946, becoming fond of America and Americans even though a wartime prisoner. Asked if he was a Nazi, Ritter said, yes, that is correct. “Some people will lie about it today,” he said, but he does not deny his past. A kindly, engaging man who enjoys travel and fine dining. Ritter said he was a boy of 14 when Hitler came to power, and as a patriotic German, he supported his country at the time. He also earned the title, “slipperiest POW in the U.S.,” he said, and recalled that at one prison camp, an officer assumed he was American and at first denied him entry at the gate, saying “no civilian clothes in here." He was admitted, however. At Princeton, where the POW camp was located smack in the middle of Indian Township Passamaquoddy reservation, Ritter said he was “treated as good as a POW could be treated.” Morale remained high. And for Ritter, a German Army recon naissance expert, the prospects of escape remained high, too. He teamed up with friend Max Domina, a fellow POW, and with a knife “bor rowed” from the camp kitchen, ducking the nighttime searchlights, the pair carv ed a gap under the high voltage electric fence surrounding the compound. “I didn’ t want to try by myself, I needed some support," Ritter remembered. Max, tall and thin, squeezed through the opening. Ritter, who is a bit more Roger Gabriel Ritter plump, got stuck. That night, their escape effort ended right there, but they were not discovered. On a second try, with some additional digging, both men made it out, wearing unmarked clothing carefully exchanged at the camp laundry for their “Prisoner of War” marked fatigues. the two German buddies headed down Route 1 toward the village of Princeton, apparently unafraid and for all the world like college students who had pulled off a fraternity prank. Ritter and Domina thumbed a ride, and as luck would have it, the first car to stop was a border patrol. Ritter recognized the guard, but somehow, the guard didn’ t know he had picked up POW’ He s. dropped them off in town, but everything being closed, they hiked back to camp, crawling under the fence again. The second night out was not so dull. “We saw five figures coming. We hid. They passed, and passed again,” Ritter said. “When one of the figures came closer it grew into a lady. And all of a sudden we were surrounded by these five Indians; one man and four ladies.” One of the young Passamaquoddy women turned out to be Mary, with whom Ritter would fall in love. Another guard drove up. He chatted, and asked my Max didn’ speak. “Oh, he's t Polish,” Ritter told him. Max began singing the one popular American song he knew, and the guard moved on. Ritter decided to take a risk, and told Mary Gabriel he was a POW. “I like that,” she said. She quickly spoke in Passamaquoddy to her companions, who agreed to keep the secret. Max too met his match; a young woman named Mildred. “Twenty-one nights in a row we went out,” recalled Ritter with a chuckle; “Max to Mildred, me to Mary.” But Ritter said his relationship was no laughing matter. “It was a real alliance — a love affair if you like — between Mary and me." Ritter stressed he was not just a soldier out for kicks. But until 1980 he never knew he fathered a child. That child has four children of his own, by his Passamaquoddy wife Lorraine. Coincidentally, both Lorraine and Gertrud Ritter are schoolteachers. Roger and Lorraine have traveled to Frankfort, w'here they met Wolfgang R itter’ sons by s a previous marriage. Although Roger and his half-brothers could not understand one another, they got on well. Especially after a few beers at a local establishment, the elder Ritter said. On the very first meeting, at Play-sted’ s Camps in Princeton, Roger Gabriel re membered: “We sort of steered around each other for about four hours ... I was sort of waiting for him, and he was sort of waiting for me. I started for the car. I said I was very glad to meet him, and he said, “it’ taken a long time,” and he sort of put s his hand on my shoulder. That was it. That was the acknowledgement.” Last Christmas, a bundle of presents arrived at the reservation from Frankfort, for the grandchildren. Ritter boasted that he and Max “always promised ourselves to be back before dawm. We broke that promise every night, and came back when the sun was high in the sky, 20 minutes before roll call.” The fun and games atmosphere was illusory. Other POWs envied Ritter and Domina’ freedom, but were not so skillful s at escaping. One POW was caught digging his own hole under the fence — Ritter said he and Max refused to share their escape route — and was beaten on an earlier scare. This so angered prisoners they almost rioted, Ritter said. Another POW went “barbed wire crazy.” He cut his leg with an axe, and later walked right out the main gate and climbed atop a roof. He was shot in the stomach by a guard, and taken to Bangor, where he presumably recovered. Those incidents led to a forced exodus. The entire group of Princeton POWs were transferred to more secure camps, Ritter said. INDIAN C A T RF — 7 2 SUPPLIES c q c c rnC E 148 Page Catalog Tfcs world'* Ssrgwsl Indian Crafts Catalog. Mora than 4,000 Hams to shoos* from! For free catalog, Trade Beads, Tin Cones. Brass Beads. Moire Taffeta Ribbon, Ermine Skins, Bone Elk Teeth. Shaw! Fringe and Yam. *RIY OWL 113-15 Springfield Blvd. Queens Village, N.Y. 11429 Ritter continued to escape, whether it was Fort Devens, Mass., or Battle Creek, Mich. He worked in the woods and at the laundry in the POW camp at Princeton; he worked on the railroad and harvesting crops, when he escaped from western camps. While a farm laborer in Clinton, Illinois, an American “pal” of R itter’ began to s suspect his true identity when Ritter could not produce a draft card. Ritter took his friend to a bar and got him “drunk as Mary Gabriel hell,” hoping to escape in the morning. But that night his pal turned him in. “When I was captured, my first though was to escape. Not because I was a Nazi. Not because I was a soldier, but because of the barbed wire. I wanted freedom,” Ritter said. Crow trib e unhappy w ith ruling CROW AGENCY, Montana - “The United States has once again broken a long-standing Treaty with the American Indian." said Bob Kelly, of the Crow Tribe of Indians. A recent Supreme Court ruling, settling a dispute over who has final jurisdiction to regulate fishing of the Big Horn River, the Crow Tribe of Indians or the State of Montana, has left the Crows “high and dry." a tribal press release says. On March 24. the court held that due to certain technicalities omitted in the treaty signed by the Crow Tribe and the United States over one-hundred years ago, the Crows have since presumptuously and falsely claimed title to the bed and the banks of the Big Horn River. HARDWARE & GUN SHOP 1 OM VICAJRE, Proprietor I he only Indian-owned hardware business in the State of Maine “ We're eager to do business with people in the Indian community,” says Tom. The store carries a full line of tools, electrical and plumbing supplies, paint and housewares. Also, a selection of fine new and used guns. See Our Garden Supplies and Tools For ail your hardware and hunting needs, visit — MATTAWAMKE AG HARDWARE & GUN SHOP and sample some good Indian hospitality and ser/ice. �Page 8 Wabanaid Alliance November 1981 Death of Micmac probed (Continued from page 1 ) One of the controversial aspects of the case is that Povich at first announced a grand jury would handle m atters in superior court; but the case did not go beyond district court. Un substantiated rumors su ggest Seavey may have covered for someone else involved in P eters’death. “I will try to put the rumors to rest,” Povich said, adding that he “obviously underestimated” the reaction to Sea vey’ plea, and subsequent fine. Povich s said he “will try to put together an objective report,” and that he has “in structed my police officers to collect the reports.” Asked about an autopsy report on Peters, Povich said that it is available, and shows that Peters’ injuries were mostly "above the waist." Povich said police theorize that P eters’ was lying or sitting on Route 193, possibly passed out, when Seavey's car struck him, at night, in thick fog. Peters was legally intoxicated when struck by Seavey’ vehicle, according s to police reports. Paint samples taken from Peters' clothing have been sent to the FBI. HAVING A LOOK around, from a good vantage point, is young Theresa Pardilla. daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Jerry Pardilla of Indian Island. She’s riding on the shoulders of Tammy Mitchell of Indian Island. Smoke-out to dear air at Island INDIAN ISLAND — For a three month period 7 percent of patients seen at the Penobscot Health Clinic have experienced upper respiratory problems. One cause of this high percentage may be smoking. Some facts on Smoking and Health Lung cancer is the number one cause of cancer deaths among men. In the last thirty years there has been a 400 percent increase in women’ lung cancer deaths. s By the late 1980’ lung cancer is expected s to be the number one cancer killer in Over fifty-two million Americans still smoke. Nine out o f ten of them have said in surveys that they would like to quit. Need a reason to quit? On Nov. 19 the American Cancer Society will be sponsor ing its fifth consecutive event as a nation wide celebration. Indian Island will be participating in this year’ smoke-out. The community will s be planning special events to support Francis wins Islanders attend Indian conference (Continued from page 1 ) Francis said he would not rule it out. Love has not indicated publicly if he will seek a second term as governor of the Penobscot Nation. In other election results, Kenneth Paul Sr. easily swept to victory in his in cumbent race for school committee. He received 252 votes. Another incumbent, Vivian Massey, garnered 201 votes, and candidate Deanna Labossiere received 146 votes. Michael Ranco em erged the winner in a contest with Irene McDougall for a sloton the census committee. Ranco received 222 votes; McDougall, 140 ballots. In a referendum on whether a children’ s trust fund (of land claims interest pay ments) should be voluntary or mandatory, the vote was 366 to 114, in favor of a voluntary fund. Corbett resigns Lumbee man urges public health career CHAPEL HILL, N.C. — A Lumbee Indian says the University of North Carolina’ “school of health is the number s one in the nation.” Ronald Oxendine, 23, visited the news paper office in Orono to explain that he is on a “talent search” for ambitious high school students who are interested in a career in public health. Oxendine, who grew up in Pembroke (North Carolina) and graduated from Pembroke State University, is working on a graduate degree at UNC-Chapel Hill. Pembroke State U. was formerly called Indian Normal School. “It’ going to take a good sturdy student s to stand up” to the UNC program, Oxendine said. The program is one of five in the U.S. that has federal Indian Health Service scholarships available, and UNC is the only such school on the east coast. Oxendine said the UNC admissions committee is “somewhat sensitive to Indians,” and he is personally involved with the school in "a working relationship that is really growing.” Oxendine was accompanied by Theo dore N. Mitchell of Indian Island, a Penobscot who is assistant dean for counseling Indian students at University of Maine at Orono. BANGOR — As Wabanaki Alliance went to press, lawyer Freeman R ob inson of Bangor, representing the estate of Joseph B. Peters, filed a suit for 5500,000 in Penobscot County Superior Court. The suit names as defendants: Washington County, Cherryfield Police Officer Murray B. Seavey, the Town of Cherryfield, and Jasper Wyman and Son Co. of Milbridge. District Attorney Michael Povich of Ellsworth said he will file a motion asking that the negligence suit be dis missed. those that take the pledge and quit “cold turkey,” for at least 24 hours. Notice of these special events will be in the com munity flyer. You can ge t your pledge cards from Nicholas Dow at the Health Center, or sign up at the community building. On Nov. 19: “Try quitting for the Health of it.” NOTICE PENOBSCOT NATION Tribal members are required to have a permit to hunt deer during the November season. Perm ts are avail able upon request at the municipal building. Sunday hunting during the Novem ber season will not be allowed on TRUST LANDS, but will be permitted on reservation lands during November, by sustenance permit only. INDIAN ISLAND - Howard (Bud) Corbett of Indian Island has submitted his resignation as director of Public Safety for the Penobscot Nation. Gov. Timothy L ove confirmed the resig nation, but declined to comment further. Corbett had held the job about two years. He supervised both the police and fire departments. A new department head had not been appointed as of press time. OFFICE SPACE FOR RENT MAIN STREET, ORONO 4 large offices and 6 small All utilities furnished, private en trance, desirable location. Suitable for professional people. Call 866-5526 be tween 8 a.m. and 4 p.m. Skitikuk « T » Outfitters Specialists in wilderness travel. Sales - Rentals - Guide Service L O ST Beat-up blue aluminum canoe on Still w ater River above Orson Island. If found or seen please call Mark at 8664885. H om e of Igas Island custom-made packs and equipment 38 Main St. O rono 866-4878 Povich said he has been beseiged by reporters and other citizens concerned about the case. “It’ just that I’ been s ve overwhelmed and inundated in the last two weeks to the point of mental exhaustion.” Seavey has resigned from his deputy sheriffs position, but was still serving as Cherryfield chief of police at press time. Seavey worked during the blue berry season as a private security guard for Wyman’ blueberry firm. s Suit filed ALEXANDRIA, Virginia - Several mem bers of the Indian Island School Com mittee, and the director of Central Maine Indian Association, attended a conference last month on “Indian issues.” The school baord mem bers w ere Ken Paul, Erlene Paul, Vivian Massey; also attending was James Sanborn, CMIA exeuctive director. U.S. Senator William S. Cohen of Maine, billed as a speaker at the four days of meetings, did not show up. He was slated to talk on “Indian issues of the future.” Cohen is chairman of the Senate Select Committee on Indian Affairs. New chief named PLEASANT POINT — Bruce Francis, former head forester for Indian Township, has been appointed chief of police at Pleasant Point. Francis was the first Passamaquoddy to graduate from the University of Maine at Orono’ forestry school. s Gov. J. Hartley Nicholas said he is very pleased with the appointment. Francis succeeds acting Chief Gilbert Tomah of Pleasant Point, who replaced Don Lemos. Tasty Indian recipes sought ORONO — Got a favorite recipe for fiddleheads, or fry bread? Got a delicious way to prepare zucchini? This newspaper wants to assem ble a cookbook of selected recipes from readers, whether “Indian food” or not. If you have a favorite, send it to Wabanaki Alliance, 95 Main St., Orono, Maine 04473. All persons sending us a recipe will receive a free copy of the cookbook, if enough recipes are forth coming to make the project worth while. This is an equal opportunity job, and we seek men who cook as well as women. Children, too, may submit special favorites. W e look forward to hearing from you, readers. �Wabansti Alliance November 1981 PageS Houlton Band gets a foothold by James Wherry Long ignored by bolh the United States and the State of Maine, the Houlton Band of Maiiseet Indians was recognized by the federal legislation which settled the Maine Indian Land Claims and which was signed by President Carter on October 1 . 1980. 0 The majority of the 347 members of the Houlton Band live in or near the town of Houlton. Maine. Although the Maliseets do not have a reservation, the Houlton Band has a $900,000 trust fund established under the Settlement Act. to finance the purchase of a 5.000 acre reservation. This reservation will be designed to meet the residential, recreational and commercial requirements o f the Houlton Band. The ancestors of the current members of the Houlton Band o f Maliseets hunted and lived off the land throughout Aroos took County which is part of the original homeland o f the Maiiseet people. By the third quarter of the nineteenth Century. non-Indian settlement o f A roostook County had so strained the ecology o f the region that Maiiseet hunters could no longer rely on the traditional hunting economy. As a location commonly visited by the roving Maiiseet hunting families. Houlton early developed into a focus for settlement. As the family hunting groups that made up the Maiiseet Nation become increasingly sedentary, the Houlton Band emerged as an autonomous and stable community. Over time, the Band grew^ as individuals married into the community, and the Maliseets adjusted to the changing ecology by a mixture.of traditionally Indian and non-Indian economic endeavors. For at least the past one hundred years, the Houlton Band o f the Maiiseet Tribe has lived at locales in the Houlton area popu larly known as the Houlton "Indian Reser vation." Without external recognition of its leaders or of its sovereignty, the Houl ton Band of Maliseets was organized under the informal leadership o f men known as Nikanatpat (literally, the head out front). For the Maliseets living in the Houlton community, employment was at the bot tom o f the economic scale. Seasonally. Maliseets could find work cutting timber, picking potatoes, raking blueberries, and making Christmas wreaths. Throughout the year, families could supplement their meager incomes by making baskets from brown ash.Making baskets remained a lim ited adjunct to the family income, since until recently, potato baskets sold for nine dollars a dozen. Day labor was occasion ally available through the Town Office, and family members were normally required to work for the Town to receive a general assistance payment. As late as 1970 the average per capita income was S900/year. Many of the Maliseets' homes on the Houlton "reservation " would now be viewed as sub-standard, but most families owned their own homes and everyone en joyed the relative security provided by liv ing in an insulated Maiiseet community. In 1947. however, that security was fractured when the Maine State Legislature passed a bill to tax Indians who lived off the State recognized reservations for the first time in State history. Between 1947 and 1970. nearly forty Maiiseet homes were lost to taxes and subsequently bulldozed by the Town. Often, Maiiseet families were forced to move into even less desirable housing. Under these conditions o f abject pov erty. nearly every Maiiseet family was af fected by alcoholism. And endemic poor health led to an average life expectancy of 45 years. Until I960 when Maiiseet Terry Polchies graduated from Houlton High School, no Indian had ever received a sec ondary education. In 1962 a Micmac. Tom Battiste. became the second Indian to graduate from the Houlton High School. After military service. Tom Battiste re turned to Houlton to attend Ricker College in Houlton. While at Ricker College, Tom Battiste worked with Terry Polchies to in volve the Indian community in activities at Ricker College. Their successful efforts to involve the leading men and women o f the Houlton Band culminated in the organiza tion o f a non-profit corporation, the As sociation of Aroostook Indians (AAI). in 1969. AAI was formed to provide much needed services to the Indian people in Aroostook County, and to work toward State and. Federal Recognition o f the Maiiseet and Micmac Indians in Aroostook BIG MOMENT — President Jimmy Carter, left, shakes hands with Terry Polchies, County. A part o f the original purpose of Houlton Band chairman, at signing of Maine Indian land claims, Oct. 10, 1980. In the AAI, the recognition effort for the background, from left, Gov. Joseph E. Brennan, Secretary of State Edmund S. Muskie, Houlton Band o f Maliseets. culminated in Sen. George J. Mitchell, Secretary of the Interior Cecil Andrus. the 1980 Maine Indian Claims Settlment Legislation. During the months of August ton Band Negotiating Committee members tect their settlement land against alienation and September 1979, Houlton Maliseets unanimously elected. and state taxation in the same manner as circulated and signed a petition authorizing The six members o f the negotiating trust lands of the Penobscots and the Pasthe AAI Board of Directors to act in their Committee were also elected to form the samaquoddies. The Maliseets argue that behalf, to w'ork toward inclusion in the Band Council. This Council has made deci the state should not impose property taxes Maine Indian Claims, and in October the sions by a majority vote of its members. on their land, nor impound it for non AAI Board of Directors appointed a sub The Houiton Band o f Maliseets currently payment o f other taxes or private obliga committee to act as the Houlton Band has no constitution or formal law and order tions. The Maliseets. in turn, could not sei! structure. The creation of such a structure the land. but leasing or exchanges for other Negotiating Committee. is a pressing need for the Band. The Committee first worked w'ilh rec plots would be acceptable. Neither the On October 10. 1980. President Carter state, nor the U.S. government could con ognition researcher James Wherry to draw up a membership list for the Houlton Band, signed into law H.R. 7919. the Maine In demn the lands for public purposes without based on two cirteria: first, that potential dian Claims Settlement Act. With that sign first seeking alternatives. If the land were ing. the Houlton Band of Maiiseet Indians condemned, the precedes would be used members belong to pre-1900 Houlton Maiiseet families or to families linked to became a federally recognized tribe and towards the purchase of additional land. these by marriage and residence: and sec- received a $900,000 trust fund to be used to Negotiations with Attorney General James Tierney have gone smoothly, and an agreement is expected soon. Meanwhile, the Maliseets are losing no time in taking advantage of their new fed eral status. As soon as they were recog .. nized they began correspondence with the Bureau o f Indian Affairs and the Indian ... Health Service. They created a Maiiseet health department, directed by Frederick Thomas, and developed plans fora health clinic. The clinic will complement other available services, by providing emergency ond, that the individuals have maintained purchase a 5,000 acre reservation. But, care, referral services and a prevention cultural and linguistic ties which cause when Congress passed the Act, Section program. It is scheduled to open this fall. them to be seen by the community as "ski- 5(d)(4) left some unfinished business for the Chairman Terry Polchies has also an cin” (Indian). This process led to the crea Houlton Band and the State o f Maine. nounced plans to begin a Maiiseet social tion of the first formal membership list of Congress had contemplated that further service program and an Indian education the Houlton Band o f Maliseets. negotiations between the Houlton Band of committee, with the assistance of the Maliseets and the State would result in Bureau. In March, the first formal general mem bership meeting o f the Houlton Band of trust restrictions being placed on land to be EDITOR’ NOTE: The above story S acquired for the Band, which would neces first appeared in the magazine ‘ Maliseets was held under the chairmanship Indian sarily entail some exception to the applica of Terry Polchies, w ho served as chairman Truth.’ It’ written by the former execu s tion of the laws of the State. o f the Negotiating Committee. At this In negotiations with Attorney General tive director of the Houlton Band of meeting, a progress report on federal rec Maliseets. Reprinted by permission. ognition and inclusion in the Maine Indian James E. Tierney, the Houlton Band has Land Claims was presented and the Houl- emphasized that Congress intended to pro- .the Maliseets are losing no time in taking advantage^ o f their new federal status Penobscots win in war canoe The Penobscot Nation’ war canoe at starting line. s OLD TOWN — Cheering spectators and more than 100 hardy canoeists braved chilly winds and a raging river Saturday for the first annual Penobscot Canoe Race sponsor ed by Old Town Canoe and the City of Old Town. Overall winners from the field of 57 were: first place, Reinhart Zollitsch in the kayak class with a time of 1:23, second place, John Morris and Bill Clark in the Class 2 medium with 1:24; and third place, Penobcot Nation in the war canoe class with 1:28. The 10-mile course started at the North Fourth Street Extension public landing, ran around islands in the river, under the Indian Island bridge, and wound up back at the boat ramp. Following the 10 a.m. race, which officially ajourned at 1:30 p.m., the Great Zucchini, otherwise known as escape artist Robert Wilkinson, performed downtown, �Page 10 Wabanaki Alliance November 1981 Council fires health director in dispute PLEASANT POINT - The director of the Passamaquoddy health and social services department, a one million dollar operation, was fired last month following months of acrimonious tension with tribal leadership. At press time, Wabanaki Alliance learned that Lt. Gov. Cliv Dore has been named new health center director. The appointment must be confirmed by tribal council, and if approved, means Dore will step down as lieutenant governor. Madonna M. Soctomah, director of the new reservation health center since April 1980, became embroiled in a bitter struggle with Gov. Joseph Hartley Nich olas, who sought her dismissal in the wake of alleged insubordination. Finally, on Oct. 17, the tribal council voted 4-2 to terminate Soctomah as director. Mary Altvater, assistant health director for the tribe and a councilor, abstained. Altvater also declined to take over Soctomah's job, and nurse Doris Kirby, a former nun with years of experi ence serving the tribe’ health needs, has s been appointed acting director. Voting for dismissal w ere councilors Valerie Emery, John Nicholas, Virginia Tomah and Lt. Gov. Cliv Dore. Favoring reinstatment were councilors Margaret (Dolly) Smith and John Dana. Soctomah has retained lawyer Ron Coles of Machias, and Governor Nicholas has John Romei of Machias as legal counsel in the matter. Tensions began to build last year, when Soctomah refused to acknowledge Peter Bailey as her deputy director. Bailey, favored for the job by Governor Nicholas, was hired Sept. 29,1980. “By Oct. 10 I was already w ritin g m em os on P eter,” Soctomah said in an interview. She said she originally supported a different in- G ro u p dividual for the job. “He (Bailey) was not attending in-services and staff meetings,” Soctomah alleged. Soctomah claims she was forced to manage the health center “without the help of an assistant director (Bailey).” “It’ a relatively simple thing,” he said. s “She was the director of our health center, and I charged her with multiple instances of unsubordination,” most of them in connection with Peter Bailey. Nicholas said that at first he considered Soctomah “wilfull, headstrong and de fiant.” H e claims things got worse. He said he received “many” complaints. For ex ample, Shirley Bailey — Peter Bailey’ s wife — submitted a small bill five times and each time Soctomah refused to authorize payment. Finally, Nicholas him self okayed payment, he said. Nicholas charges that Soctomah kept Peter Bailey off the job for 97 days. “He lost all that pay, three months’ pay," he said. “It began turning. Finally, it was little things. I got a letter from her stating LOCKED OUT — Pleasant Point health center director Madonna Soctomah, fired by Peter’ antics were making her ill physi the tribal governor, found her office door padlocked last month. She proceeded to s cally,” Nicholas said. It was at that point unscrew the hasp and occupy her office. Later, tribal council confirmed her termination. he shifted Bailey to Digital. “I did violate policy by not following procedure,” be grievance hearing should not follow the would use them, only briefly.” So the conceded. termination notice, but should precede it. Governor transfered Bailey to Digital, Soctomah claims that prior to her Aug. Asked about this, Nicholas said that his where he supervised eight workers. 25 termination notice, she personally council would not take action. “I thought if “I know it was wrong. I shouldn’ have t refuted all of Nicholas’ complaints about they can’ act. I’ act," he said. t ll done what I did,” Nicholas said in an her, first made July 13. “I refuted those, At one point, Soctomah suspended interview. “I immediately realized my item by item, factually,” she said, adding, Bailey for unauthorized use of federal mistake. I didn’ try to hide it,” he said. t “the council made no motion for dis Indian Health Service funds to hire an Bailey resigned his IHS position in May. missal.” She claims Nicholas told her, em ergency medical services coordinator The Governor said the Tribe will pay “don’ think this issue is dead, because I’ t m (Mary Graham). Bailey was suspended back $2,000 to IHS, in an agreement going to pursue it personally with the without pay, Dec. 10, 1980, for one week. worked out after Soctomah notified IHS council.” “But Hartley paid him anyway,” she officials of the violation. Soctomah alleges that tribal personnel asserted. Aware that Soctomah had called atten policy was not followed in her case. In fact, At another point in time Bailey and tion to the violation, Nicholas declared, “I she said things were backwards; that the Soctomah discussed their conflicts, but told her (Soctomah) if you are reinstated apparently w ere unable to resolve dif on a technicality such as this, I will ferences. immediately terminate you within 24 to 48 Governor Nicholas took matters into his hours." own hands, and assigned Bailey to manage Soctomah told Wabanaki Alliance the a newly -established reservation shop Tribe ow es IHS closer to $8,000. She said misuse of tribal funds, failure to provide under contract to Digital, the computer that in addition to the unauthorized use of equal employment opportunity, and viola s tion of traditional procedures for filling firm. But Nicholas continued Bailey’ IHS funds, she has evidence that Nicholas vacant council seats. Nicholas is also Indian Health Service (IHS) salary, even harassed her in her job. Six days after an though Bailey was no longer connected Aug. 25 “em ployee action notice” sent by charged with usurping authority tradi with the health center. Nicholas to Soctomah, terminating her tionally accorded the tribal council. Nicholas explained his actions by say employment, a tribal grievance committee Dana explained that “traditional” is s used because no constitution exists, ing, “I thought: why not? Let’ get this recommended that Soctomah "be kept on although Nicholas said a draft constitution thing (Digital) going. We live in an area as IHS director and that a special m eeting where unemployment is 60 percent. be held to resolve this case as soon as has been prepared. s One sore point between Nicholas and Peter’ talents w ere not being utilized. I possible.” Dana has been the status of Tribal Truck ing, a tribal government business, and PUBLIC HEALTH PROGRAM RECRUITING AMERICAN INDIANS Dana’ own trucking business, Dana s The School of Public Health at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill is Trucking. currently recruiting individuals interested in entering graduate school in the field In reponse to the charge of no court of public health. The mission of the school is to prepare individuals for system, Nicholas said that Shirley Bailey professional health careers aimed at preventing disease and disability and in was named Chief Judge last spring, when analyzing, improving, prom oting and maintaining the health of the public. Job the tribe opted for its own tribal court, opportunities exist for biostatisticians, environmentalists, epidemiologists, similar to the Penobscot Nation court. administrators, educators, nutritionists along with such roles as researchers, Clayton Cleaves was named associate investigators and consultants. judge. The School of Public Health offers nine graduate degree programs: Nicholas said a lack of money to run the Biostatistics, Environmental Sciences and Engineering, Epidemiology, Health court has been remedied by two recent Administration, Health Education, Maternal and Child Health, Nutrition, grants he obtained from Washington, D.C. Parasitology and Laboratory Practice, and Public Health Nursing. Asked what he will do next, Nicholas Training in the programs for m aster’ degrees range between 12 to 24 months s said, T m going to take a little time.” depending on the specialization chosen by the studentf. Requirements for admission are that applicant have a bachelor’ degree from an s accredited institution, an acceptable grade point average, take the Graduate HOUSE FOR SALE R ecord Examination and provide three personal references. Financial support is 73 W est Street available through the University and the Indian Health Service. Individuals Indian Island interested in applying to the Program for the 1981-82 academic year are urged to Seven rooms, large bath, oil furnace, contact our office. new siding. Very well built. Large W e welcome any questions or requests concerning the program. double lot, from Center Street to Pen For additional information please contact: obscot River frontage. Ronald Oxendine $12,000 firm Director, American Indian Recruitment Program Call or write to: School of Public Health Jean A. Moore Rosenau Hall 201H 1111 W est Northfield Blvd. University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill Murfreesboro, Tenn. 37130 Chapel Hill, N.C. 27514 615-896-2992 wants Governor's removal (Continued from page 1 ) close inspection reveals the name is Margaret Nichols, not Nicholas as the Governor thought, and that Margaret Nichols is a bona fide tribal member. The Governor said he never heard of her. Nicholas claims three names on the peition appear to be written in the same handwriting, that of Mary Alexander. The name of Bonnie Stanley appeared twice on the petition, but Dana maintains this was an honest mistake, and in any case, there are a sufficient number of names without hers (the requirement is for a minimum 50 signatures). The petition appears to be aimed at Peter Bailey, an adopted Passamaquoddy tribal member of undetermined Indian blood quantum. Bailey, as a separate story in this issue reports, is involved in a controversy between the former health center director and the Governor. Bailey said his decision to fire health center employee John Dana, a friend of Ralph Dana’ made him a target of s, petitioners. Bailey has been considered a supporter of Governor Nicholas, while Ralph Dana has been politically aligned with Deanna Francis, an unsuccessful candidate for governor in the latest election. Dana has re le n tle ssly cam p aign ed against Nicholas, and the impeachment effort appears to be the latest attack. The latest petition, dated Sept. 14, calls for removal of Nicholas for failure to develop a tribal constitution, violation of personnel policy (the case of the health center director), failure to provide ade quate police protection, failure to set up a tribal court system, failure to provide financial reports on tribal enterprises, i �Wabanaki Alliance November 1981 Page 1 1 Penobscots1years of change on agenda Job well done These workers, supervised by Mike Francis, right, erected new playground equipment at Indian Island recently. Isaac accepts cash settlement MILLINOCKET — Mary Francis Isaac, a Penobscot, has accepted a SI.335 settle ment of her discrimination case involving Town Manager William Ayoob. according to the Katahdin Times. The out-of-court settlement followed two years of threats, charges, investiga tions and rulings in the dispute. Isaac originally alleged she was harassed and discriminated against as town book keeper, including being the butt of jokes about Indians. Ayoob repeatedly declined comment on the charges. Isaac brought the matter to the attention of Maine Human Rights Commission in October 1979, and four months later the commission found resonable grounds to believe unlawful discrimination had occurred. Isasc was transferred to a job with the Millinocket public works department. Town Council Chairman Dean Beaupain was quoted as stating, “The town made an economic decision. We have had enough lawsuits. We gave her what she wanted and settled the issue. Actually, the case was settled several years ago except for the payment of the money. The town had refused payment. Then she threatened to sue in federal district court. Rather than get the town in another lawsuit, we agreed to the settlement,” he said. Isaac was represented by lawyer Thomas N. Tureen, who is legal counsel to the Penobscot Nation and Passamaquoddy Tribe. ROCKPORT — The past ten years of private sector in reservation development dramatic changes in the lives of Penob in the early 1970's.” Buesing, now attend scots will be the theme of a three-day ing law school, worked for years helping organize Association of Aroostook Indians planning workshop here. The Penobscot Nation planning depart in Houlton, and later worked as coordina ment has scheduled a variety of speakers tor of Indian Task Force for a federal and discussion groups at the Samoset government funding agency in Boston. A lecture on Penobscot participation in (named after an Indian chief) Inn. Former Maine governor Kenneth M. Curtis, a the Maine State Advisory Committee to Democrat who may seek to unseat U.S. the U.S. Commission on Civil Rights, will Senator George Mitchell, will give a “key be given by Harriet Price. Thomas N. Tureen, nationally-known note" speach. Indian claims lawyer and counsel to The department encountered a snag Penobscot Nation, will talk about the when staff discovered several Penobscot “history of the Maine Indian Land Claims tribal council members would not be able to Case.” attend the sessions, even if commuting on On the afternoon of the second conven a daily basis. Councilor Francis (Bunny) tion day, guest speakers lined up are Paul Ranco questioned holding the conference F. Zendzian, mayor of Bangor and a in Rockport — about two hours' drive lawyer; U.S. Housing and Urban De from Indian Island — when facilities are velopment official Edward Bernard; and available in Bangor, "or right here in our James E. Mitchell, former director of own Community Building." Maine State Housing Authority. Those Gov. Timothy Love indicated it was not speakers will discuss reservation housing. possible to re-schedule the event, but that The evening program features talks by Ranco’ point would be considered in Edward Hinckley and James H. Murphy, s future conference planning. former state commissioners of Indian Love is slated to open the conference at Affairs (a post that has been abolished by 9 a.m., Nov. 3. A panel will follow, with an Governor Joseph Brennan); John W. “overview of reservation development, Stevens, former Indian Township tribal 1968-1977." Panelists listed are Eugene governor and a former state commissioner Loring, Andrew Akins, Michael Ranco, (the first Indian to hold the post); and Love, Nicholas Dow, Kenneth Paul, James Harvey Johnson, chairman, advisory com Sappier, Irving Ranco and Matthew mittee to U.S. Commission on Civil Rights. Johnson is former chairman of the Sappier. Topics to be covered in small group Govenor's Executive Council, a state body that has been dissolved. meetings include community develop Curtis will close the program with his ment, economic development, education, address, on an unannounced topic. employment and housing. Thursday morning, the final session, On Nov. 4, Gregory Buesing, a longtime r worker for Indian rights and recognition, involves a “wrap-up" and overview of the is scheduled to talk on “the role of the previous discussions. • • * - VETERANS ADMINISTRATION Millinocket man fined $40 for driving Owned Homes For Sale without license, other court cases in Washington County INDIAN ISLAND - The following matters were heard at Penobscot Tribal Court, recently, the Honorable Andrew Mead presiding: New arraignments Edward J. Francis, 19, Millinocket, charged with operating without a license Sept. 9, at Indian Island. Plea of guilty — requested a waiver and fine to be indi cated; Judge Mead indicated $40 fine. Louis K. Paul, 54, Indian Island, charged with keeping a vicious dog. Sept. 15, at Indian Island. Plea of not guilty, continued for trial. Louis K. Paul, 54, Indian Island, charged with permitting dog to roam at large. Sept. 15, at Indian Island. Plea of not guilty, continued for trial. Louis K. Paul, 54, Indian Island, charged with permitting dog to roam at large. Sept. 22, at Indian Island. Plea of not guilty, continued tor trial. Trials Penobscot Nation vs. Donald Francis, Bert Francis and Joseph Francis, Jr.; charged with disorderly conduct. Cases dismissed by Nation. Small Claims Hearings Elsie Lolar vs. John Davis (disclosure); ordered to make payments in the amount pf $10 per month, first payment due Oct. 1 and each month thereafter until bill is , paid in full. Failure to comply with court order means defendant will be held in contempt of court and sentence of 48 hours in Penobscot County Jail will be imposed. Everett Sapiel vs. John Davis (dis closure); ordered to make payments in the amount of $5 per week, first payment due Oct. 5, and each week thereafter until bill is paid in full. Failure to comply with court order means defendant will be held in c o n t e m D t of court and sentence of 48 * hours in Penobscot County Jail will be imposed. Civil Hearing Penobscot Tribal Reservtion Housing Authority vs. Shirley Francis Plaintiffs Motion to dismiss appeal and defendant's motion to show cause heard. Both motions denied, appeal to be sent to appellate court. CAREER CENTER SUPERVISOR Full-time supervisor, preferably familiar with Native American culture, will head in-house unit. Position in volves academic and vocational assess ment, personal contact with educa tional and manpower referral sources, individual and group counseling. M aster’ degree in human services s or related field required. Salary mid teens plus benefits. To begin im mediately. Send letter and resume by Nov. 11 to Bill Garrison, Boston Indian Council, 105 So. Huntington Ave., Jamaica Plain, Mass. 02130. Equal Housing OPPORTUNITY BEING TRANSFERRED? Contact the VA for information about properties available throughout the State. These homes are available to veterans or non-veterans without preference. Main Street, Baring $26,800. 9 Academy Street, Calais 25,900. 12 Beech Street, Calais 21,500. 8 Chapel Street, Calais 12,500. 1 Temperance Street, Calais 1 26,000. Summer Street, Calais 19,000. Route #1— Houlton Road, Woodland 27,500. 3 Chapel Street, Calais 1 19,000. FINANCED FOR 30 YEARS BY VA AT15Vz% NO DOWN PAYMENTS REQUIRED SEE YOUR LOCAL REAL ESTATE BROKER All VA financed A t p r e v a ilin g in te re s t ra te s VETERANS ADMINISTRATION LOAN GUARANTY DIVISION TOGUS, MAINE 04330 Tel. 207-623-8411 Ext. 433 • • • • �Page 12 Wab&naki Alliance November 1981 Flashback news notes Sapiel, Mills tie in pentathalon The new bridge Penobscot payroll after 3Vi years Governor's suite MASHPEE, Mass. — Although only five Indian persons entered a sports event here called a “pentathlon,” its prom oter — also a winner — called it a success. Sam Sapiel, a Penobscot from Indian Island, said next year he anticipates greater participation. He said several Penobscots who had indicated they would enter, did not show up. Sapiel and “Chiefie” Mills of Falmouth, both representing the Boston Indian Council, tied for first place in the recent event, which included stints in canoeing, swimming, a foot race, shotput, and bike ride. Mills is a Wampanoag. Other participants w ere Brian Polchies, a Micmac from Gape Breton, Nova Scotia; Jim Peters of Mashpee, Wampanoag; and Freeman Ward, Micmac from Red Bank, New Brunswick. Thirty-one years ago this month, on Nov. 29, the one-lane bridge linking Indian Island with the City of Old Town was formally opened. In this early photo, a bateau used to ferry people to the island in pre-bridge days is still present, and looks in good shape. Gary Mitchell is the young lad resting on the oars. Finch leaves Island New staffer in on computer INDIAN ISLAND — Lawrence Finch, former guidance counselor in the Old Town school system, was wistful as he left his human services post recently, at the Penobscot Nation. “I’ enjoyed my three and one half ve years here. They (the tribe) are almost like family,” Finch told this newspaper. “I wish them nothing but the best in the future. And if ever needed, I’ be at thenll beck and call," he said. Finch at first worked for the State of Maine Department of Indian Affairs, then, after that department ceased to exist, he worked as director of human services on the reservation. Firemen’s Ball Set INDIAN ISLAND - The annual Penob scot Nation Firemen’ Ball is scheduled s from 8 p.m. to midnight, Nov. 23, at the Community Building. A live band and buffet will be featured. Sapiel 5th in footrace PLEASANT POINT — James Sapiel, a Passamaquoddy who attends Shead High School in Eastport, crossed the finish line in fifth place, in a recent cross country meet at Calais. PAULINE FRANCIS LOVE INDIAN ISLAND - Pauline F. Love, 48, of 22 Center St., died Sept. 25, at a Bangor hospital, following a long illness. She was born Dec. 31, 1932, at Old Town, the daughter of Bertie and Violet Shay Francis. Mrs. Love was a form er m em ber of the tribal council, housing authority and the health and social services board. She was a member of St. Ann’ Church. She is s survived by her husband, John Love; her mother, Violet Francis; three sons, Timo thy Love, governor of Indian Island, John Jr. and Richard; two daughters, Paula and Emily; one brother, Joseph Francis; one half-brother, Gilbert Francis, all o f Indian Island. Also, by three sisters, Alberta Diviak of Los Angeles, Calif., Marjorie Bartley of Live Oak, Fla., and Margaret Neptune of Indian Island; one half-sister, Christine Nicholas of Searsport; two nieces, Jeanette Lucy of Rockhill, S.C., and Ila Nicola of Los Angeles, Calif.; one nephew, Calvin Tom er of Orono; and eight grandchildren. A Mass of Christian burial was cele brated at St. Ann's Church, Indian Island, with the Rev. John Civiello, celebrant. Interment followed in the tribal cem e tery. INDIAN ISLAND — What used to involve five bookkeepers now requires only one. The payroll of the Penobscot Nation has been successfully programm ed into the recently acquired Digital computer at Indian Island, and things are running "pretty smoothly," according to Dan Nelson, fiscal officer. Dan is assisted by Scott Davis, com puter operator/programmer. Indian actor dies VANCOUVER, British Columbia Dan George, an Indian chief and actor nominated for an Oscar for his role in “Little Big Man,” died in a hospital Sept. 23. He was 82. Gwen Williams, nursing supervisor at Lion's Gate Hospital in North Vancouver, said George died at 2 a.m. She said he had been in and out of the hospital for months. The cause of his death was not made public. George was born on Vancouver’ North s Shore and was chief of the Tel-lal-watt section of C oast Salish tribe of British Columbia. He became a spokesman for native Americans after he won fame as an actor in the late 1960s. OLD TOWN 827-6096 Let y o u r ad a p p e a r h e re “ It's a M iracle" Use our “Miracle Machine” Xerox 9400® Duplicator • Quick Turn-Around • High Print Quality • Various Reduction Sizes Xerox® and 9400® are trademarks of Xerox Corporation Correction A story in the October issue of Wabanaki Alliance incorrectly identified Tom Vicaire of Mattawamkeag as Central Maine Indian Association (CMIA) board chairman. Vicaire is a member of the board, but not the chairman. Actually, there is no chairman as such. The president of the board, Mary Isaac of Millinocket, resigned her position, as was correctly reported in the story. Obituaries Na'swahegan, Inc. 76 NORTH MAIN ST. INDIAN ISLAND - Marie (Mitchell) King of Indian Island has been hired as executive secretary to Gov. Timothy Love, replacing Blanche Corbett, who resigned. King began her duties Sept. 18. She was formerly employed by the University of Maine at Orono. A graduate of Beal College in Bangor, she is the mother of four children: Christopher, John, Christa and Mitchell. I Wabanaki Alliance is pleased to an nounce that the advertising deadline for any given month’ issue of the s newspaper is the first day of the last week of the preceeding month. In other words, for the September 1981 issue, the deadline for ad copy is Aug. 24. In special cases, exceptions can be made. For your advertising needs, call the newspaper at 207-8664903. Take advantage of our budget rates, and be the first to reach the Indian population through the pages of Wabanaki Alliance. Written inquiries should be ad dressed to the newspaper at 95 Main Street, Orono, Maine 04473. JOHN W. NEPTUNE PLEASANT POINT — John Warren Neptune, 49, died Oct. 16, at a Calais hospital. He was born in Pleasant Point, Jan. 22, 1932, the son of Jerome and Elizabeth (Lewey) Neptune. He is survived by four sisters; Angela Barnes of Eastport, Clara Keezer, Theresa Gardner and Elizabeth Pond all of Perry; two brothers, Louis and Peter Neptune both of Perry; several nieces and nephews. A Mass of Christian burial was cele brated at St. Ann’ Catholic Church, with s the Rev. Joseph Mullen, celebrant. Burial was at the tribal cemetery, Pleasant Point. CAN’ FIND A JOB? T Try JOB CORPS Would you like to be trained as a ... Bookkeeper Secretary/ Stenographer Clerk Typist Nursing Assistant If you are 16 to 21 and not in school, the Penobscot Job Corps Center has training programs which may be of interest to you. The Penobscot Job Corps Center provides all trainees with a place to live, meals, health care and a cash monthly stipend while you learn. And when you finish, we’ also help you ll find a job. SOUND GOOD? IT IS GOOD. ASK FOR JOB CORPS — in the Portland area— 775-7225 — in the Auburn area— 786-4190 — in the Bangor area— 947-0755 — or toll free anywhere in Maine at 1-800-432-7307 ASK FOR JOB CORPS RECRUITMENT � Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource <em>Wabanaki Alliance</em> (November 1981) Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Indian Resource Center Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Passamaquoddy Cultural Museum Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1981-11 Contributor An entity responsible for making contributions to the resource Donald Soctomah Julia Brush Rights Information about rights held in and over the resource Steve Cartwright. Used with permission. Language A language of the resource English Type The nature or genre of the resource Document Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource pdf Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context DV-429 https://www.dawnlandvoices.org/collections/files/original/8aaf5ae48594953ba52045e38099b3f6.pdf 93431ac6282b09f3db767302f5531cf6 PDF Text Text Wabanaki A llia n ce Non-profit org. U.S. Postage Paid 2.1' Orono, Maine Permit No. 14 October 1977 Fraud found In sale of Suit alleges contractor botched job Townships INDIAN ISLAND — A lawyer for the housing authority here is preparing a law suit of several hundred thousand dollars, against a contractor who has allegedly bungled the job. The suit is expected to be filed soon at U.S. District Court in Bangor, and will seek $300,000 to $400,000 in damages against a Bosion general contractor, according to Paul F. Zendzian. lawyer for Penobscot Reservation Tribal Housing Authority. To be named in the suit as defendants are J. W. Praught Company, chief contractor for $1.2 million 29-unit housing project here, and Home Indemnity Company of New York City, Praught’ bonding firm. s Among alleged problems with Praught are a failure to complete 21 units o f family housing plus eight units o f housing for elderly under terms o f an original contract. Praught was allegedly more than 100 days late in constructing the homes, for which he BIRD’S EYE VIEW of Penobscot reservation village on Indian Island was snapped from has been assessed a $500 per day penalty as plane piloted by Rep. Michael Pearson of Old Town. [Cartwright Photo] specified in the contract. Also, three existing homes in the project were reportedly built on improperly com pacted soil, in violation o f the contract between Praught and the housing authority. Indians say they have repeatedly showed a WASHINGTON — The White House has Carpenter said typical problems with announced appointment o f a three member willingness to negotiate a compromise settle units include faulty caulking, missing plates task force to discuss a settlement o f Pen ment to their claims. At a meeting with for electrical outlets, defective windows and obscot and Passamaquoddy land-claims in Gunter in August, Indian officials asked unpainted areas. “When you come down to Maine. that a negotiator be appointed, and the it. it’ just lousy workmanship,” he said. s Named to the panel and expected to meet recent White House move is seen as a “con Praught has already threatened a soon with Maine Indian leaders were Leo cession” by the Administration, according countersuit o f $2 million in a letter to Krulitz. solicitor for Department of Interior; to one Indian leader. Zendzian. Members of the Penobscot-Passama Stephens Clay, who works with Judge The 29 units were built last year as the William Gunter, the President’ Indian land quoddy tribal negotiating team were s first phase of a three phase housing claims advisor; and Elliott Cutler, former expected to meet soon with the new task aulhority construction program at Indian campaign aide to Sen. Edmund S. Muskie, force in Washington. Island, funded through the federal D-Maine. Department of H ousing and Urban Officials of the Penobscot and Passa Development (HUD). maquoddy tribes have called the White An official of HUD’ architectural and House action a favorable development in s engineering division rated Praught as “very negotiations to settle the Maine Indians’ (Continued on page 5 ) claim to 12.5 million acres of the State. ORONO — Wabanaki Corporation, a statewide Indian alcoholism treatment and rehabilitation program, has applied for re newed three-year funding from Federal sources. Organized in March 1975. the non-profit group submitted a proposal before an Oct. 1 1 ORONO — Is being a Micmac Indian an and attitudes. Some o f the most difficult deadline, seeking close to $ million for the next three years of operation. The monies times they can recall led to their expressions important part o f your identity? of trust and self-confidence, in a recent sought represent a “ substantial increase” It’ important for two freshman women at s over funding appropriations for the first University o f Maine here, who also have in interview at UMO. That self-confidence shows when Freda, a three years, according to George M. common that they are roommates, and Mitchell. Wabanaki executive director. share similar interests in life. “ When people former beauty contest winner, and her Wabanaki Corp. has applied for funds ask if I'm an Indian I say I'm a Micmac equally attractive roommate smile and joke about their careers. The two students were through the National Institute on Alco Indian.” said Margaret (Freda) Harper. holism and Alcohol Abuse (N AAA), an arm 1 delighted to room together at UMO. where Delora (Dee) Francis, her Micmac room mate. is equally enthusiastic about her they can compare notes on everything from of the Health. Education and Welfare De partment. Mitchell said his agency will cultural background. She said she has come classes and professors to sports and dating. probably not hear about final approval of a Freda is so friendly she at times “gives to realize that Indians are "beautiful.” grant until spring, following a Federal everything away, and I end up bumming. Neither Dee nor Freda is in any way smug s about being Micmac. and both of them It’ lucky 1have a generous roommate." she review process. Wabanaki Corp. is involved in combelieve people can live as respectful equals said. munity education, counseling services and Both women want to work in psychology, and treat one another with consideration Wilderness Pursuits, a program started this and are considering the subject for their and love. year that gives young people experience in In their respective upbringings. Dee and major field o f study. Freda said she might cooperation, dealing with challenges, and like to do psychiatric work on an Indian Freda underwent many hardships . . . ex building self-confidence. ( . omiiuied on page 9 ( ) periences that in 18 years shaped their lives White House names claims task force New funds sought by alcoholism group 1 Proud to be Micmac say two UMO students By S. Glenn Starbird, Jr. In all the publicity attending the Maine Indian Land Case as it has progressed through the last few years an item has been largely overlooked, an item though seemingly small in the overall picture, slicks out as one o f the biggest land frauds in the history o f the State when one examines thoroughly the documents relating to it. The item 1refer to is the supposed sale of the so-called Four Townships, owned by (he Penobscot Tribe, to the State in 1833. The legal minds on both sides o f the Indian Land Case can come up with all sorts o f arguments and counter-arguments as to whether the Indian Land sales between 1790 and 1820 were or were not violations o f the 1790 Federal and Non-interco'urse Act. but a fair-minded examination of the records concerning the sale o f the Four Townships o f land reserved to the Penobscots in the Treaty of 1818 will leave the researcher as tounded if not sickened by the casual violation o f both State and Federal law. by the Commissioner appointed by the State and by their complete disregard pf common decency, morality and ehiics. Indians retained Townships The Treaty o f 1818, also known as the Treaty o f Bangor, was signed by the Chiefs, Captains, and Chief men o f the Tribe on the one hand and the Commissioners appointed by the Commonwealth o f Massachusetts on the other, at the old Penobscot County Court House in Bangor, Maine on June 29, 1818. (Continued on page 1 0) Indian home solar heated PLEASANT POINT — Construction has just begun here on 44 new units o f housing on the Passamaquoddy Indian Reservation, and one o f those units is designed to benefit from a solar heating system. The new solar heated house will be the second experiment o f its type built by the tribal housing authority. A first solar heated home was created through a $15,000 dem onstration project grant from the Federal Department o f Housing and Urban De velopment (HUD). “ HUD’ trying to interest people in solar s energy,” said Russell Lawson o f Eastport, an engineer who supervised the demonstra tion project for the housing authority. Lawson claims the first solar conversion project may cut heating bills in half, with the sun providing as much as 60 per cent of heat and hot water for the home. “The real telling is going to come this winter.” Lawson said. The first solar home, otherwise oil-heated, has 28, three by eight foot solar collectors attached to the roof, each containing a system o f copper pipes leading to a 950 gallon storage tank. Besides a hot water supply, the storage tank provides heat for rooms in the house. The second solar home will have a modified design involving ten collectors and a re flector. plus heat storage built into inside walls. Lawson said. �Page 2 Wabanaki Alliance October 1977 editorials As Maine goes . . . Cultural roots “Roots” has lately become an overworked word and a sort of fad, but its essential meaning in a cultural context remains as valid as ever. Roots are vitally important to all of us, whether or not we are conscious of them. Our roots provide us with nothing less than our beliefs, customs, traditions and values — our roots are the past. For Indian society, roots are lifelines to a culture that has suffered much oppression and many losses and setbacks. To research and preserve Indian roots is to rescue Indian cultural traditions. Such work is no dusty anthropological undertaking or some dry academic exercise. To identity and establish roots — the patterns o f the past — is to pump new blood into the heart of Indian identity itself. For several years, Wayne Newell and others at Indian Township and Pleasant Point have worked on a bi-lingual program that provides Indian children with native Passamaquoddy language instruction and ex posure to traditional legends, rituals and practices. The ultimate benefit of the bi-lingual program is more than fluency in the native language, it is a sense o f “who you are.” Who we are, after all, determines our attitudes toward ourselves and each other, and how we interact in the community. The bi-lingual program, and such endeavors as Joseph Nicholas’ Project Indian Pride at Calais (part of a Maine Indian education program) are both effective efforts to ensure the survival and expression of Indian cultural roots. Giving children a positive, personal sense o f pride and identity could be more important than anything else learned at school. Without a sense of “who you are,” and just basically feeling good about oneself, all else to some extent fails. One of the most heartening aspects of renewed interest in Indian cultural roots and identity is that the movement comes from within the native community. Until Indians perceive themselves as a people with a rich cultural heritage, one that needs to be studied, ap preciated and expressed, they are missing a piece of their identity. That a movement is underway to restore awareness of deeply rooted Indian identity is reason to rejoice. History is in the making. Whatever the outcome o f the PenobscotPassamaquoddy land claims case in Maine, the results are likely to set a national precedent. Whether that precedent would be favorable to the return of aboriginal Indian lands across the U.S. remains to be seen. Thomas Tureen, lawyer for Maine Indians, has said he is confident the tribes can win a substantial settlement, including both cash and land. Maine Atty. Gen. Joseph Brennan is equally confident that in a court battle, Indians would lose their claims — at least as those claims apply to State lands. Both the claims by Tureen and those Brennan has made may be inflated for public relations purposes, but we are inclined to think Maine Indians have a substantial crack at winning their case, either through the courts or through negotiated arrangement. We take this position after noting that the U.S. Department of the Interior saw fit to order a suit against Maine for $300 million damages, on behalf of the two tribes. And we note that in New York State, an Oneida Indian land claim was recently upheld by the courts. Brennan’ argument that we cannot rewrite history in favor of s Indians is a hollow one. Obviously a history of many injustices cannot be undone; but if there are the means at our disposal to right certain wrongs, why not pursue those means. Lincoln could not undo a history of slavery in this country, but he changed the course of events by his Emancipation Proclamation. Indians are becoming aware of, and demanding their rights. Persons outside the Indian community are listening. Some non-Indians react with dislike and distruct, but many others show increasing sympathy for the Indian cause. Not least of the supporters is former Watergate prosecutor Archibald Cox, a Harvard law professor with a summer place at South Brooksville. Even Brennan admits concern that someone of Cox’ reputation has taken up the cause o f Indians. s We hope there are persons like Cox in our government, because if there are, there is a genuine chance Indians will see justice done. If the Indians here in Maine truly succeed — even if they receive By itself alcohol is a powerful word. Add an “ism” to it, and we’ re far less than $300 million or 12.5 million acres o f land — their talking about a subject of epidemic proportions. success will reverberate not only across the U.S., but worldwide. Alcoholism is a worldwide problem that strikes without regard to [SC] race, creed, color or place of national origin. Abuse of alcohol is a particularly severe problem among native peoples in the U.S., and Maine Indians are no exception. O f course, all of us must liberate ourselves from old, tired stereo types of drunken Indians and related false images. A drunk is a drunk. A person who drinks to excess is a person with a serious problem, a person who needs help. Unlike some diseases, alcoholism cannot really be cured by outside substance or intervention. Not unless the victim of the problem himself decides to reform. Just as victims o f other serious medical problems must have a will to live, so the alcoholic must decide to do something about his condition. Many Maine Indians have lived through an experience with alcoholic abuse, and as veterans of that problem are highly qualified to assist others in recognizing their plight. But though an alcoholic may reform, and never touch a drop, there are times when it’ too s late. Alcohol has caused countless deaths. Death can be on the highway Or from cirrhosis of the liver, but in both cases can be alcohol-related. It's too late for those who have died, but it’ never too late to work s with those persons around us who need help, and need to help themselves. NEW LOGO — Diane Newell Wilson of Indian Island submitted this design which took To struggle to overcome alcoholism is to fight for our lives, and first prize in a contest sponsored by Penobscot Indian Health and Social Services. The logo will be used on the department’s stationery. that is worth fighting for. Alcohol and Indians �letters Lincolnville To the editor: Your newspaper is great, with so many articles that peaked our interest and en thusiasm to be involved. Wish we had known beforehand about the border con ference. Is there some way you could send dates for such things and University o f Maine Indian happenings coming up? 1 guess that’ your intention with the paper. s We’ like to come up to visit sometime d this fall. Thanks for the newspaper. Pat and Richard Tompkins Palmyra To the editor: I was very glad to pick up a copy of Wabanaki Alliance at the “Common Ground Country Fair” in Litchfield this weekend. Like some other whites, I am very deeply distressed over the Indian predica ment and it is good to have some news that is not filtered through the bias o f our usual sources. I was unaware o f the border crossing problem until reading your report. The con ference resolutions, in my opinion, are cogently stated and persuasive, but are con siderably weakened by the inclusion of the resolution on Indian services and benefits. 1 mean, there is an essential absurdity (at least in white thinking) in saying in one breath: ‘ We are a soverign people; lets us alone . . . but provide for all our wants and needs.’ This combination can only evoke paternalism in response. I believe it would be a more effective strategy to seek recogni tion o f soverignty in border crossings with out raising the services issue. Once that is gained, a stronger argument could be made for obtaining the services you need, an 1 believe, separation o f the issues could result in quicker resolution o f both. One final observation on the border issue. The conference resolutions specify the border as a white mans’ fiction, yet you caption Noel Knockwood as a Canadian Micmac! is he not a Micmac who simply ’ lives in Canada? I think there is a differ ence. I was very surprised at the size of the bids on the Indian Township Municipal Build ing. $129,000 seems like it ought to build a lot of building, especially when there are people in Maine who are building handsome and spacious houses (in the commerciallybuilt $40,000-$60,000 class) for $3,000$10,000. Has the township considered the alternative o f having a young non-estab lishment architect design a low cost building, and using Indian and maybe other sympathetic craftsmen to construct it? 1will be glad to supply what information I have if there is interest. Robert L. Daly WABANAKI ALLIANCE Wabanaki Alliance October 1977 Red Eye St. John's Newfoundland T o the editor: An article in the Quoddy Tides informs us that you propose to start a newspaper. This is very interesting to me, and 1 wish to become a subscriber. Will you please let me know how 1may obtain your paper and what a subscription costs? I am interested in all things pertaining to the Indians o f Maine and the Maritime Provinces of Canada. At present I am trying to learn the Passamaquoddy language, not an easy task in isolation. It is like learning to swim where there is no water. However 1 have received help from the school at Indian Township (Robert Leavitt) and a couple of individuals at Pleasant Point as well as some Maliseet material from two professors at UNB in Fredericton. Can you tell me if there are any people left who can or do speak Penobscot. It is my impression that the Indian spoken at Old Town is now Passamaquoddy. As you no doubt know, the Maliseets and Passamaquoddies speak the same language, but the Penobscot, although a close relative, is different. Here in Newfoundland we have a few old Micmacs who can speak their language, but it is very different and no help in trying to learn Passamaquoddy. Although I do not expect your paper to be written in Indian, perhaps there may be some articles sometimes in a native language? I wish you success in your venture and look forward to many years of reading your work. Thank you for your attention. Lloyd Leland ASSISTANT EDITOR The Wabanaki Alliance, a statewide month ly newspaper for Maine Indians published at Orono, has an opening for a full time assistant editor for one year. Duties will include reporting, writing and editing. Photography skills an asset; car useful. Residents of Penobscot and Hancock Counties eligible to apply; Indian preferred. Total salary $8,780, paid through federal CETA Title VI LIFTE funds. Interested persons should contact Maine Job Service, 45 Oak St., Bangor, for details. Tel. 942-6351. Vol. 1, No. 3 October 1977 Published monthly by the Division of Indian Services [DIS] at the Indian Resource Center, 95 Main St., Orono, Me. 04473. Steven Cartwright, Editor DIS Board of Directors Jean Chavaree [chairman] John Bailey, CAP director Albert Dana Timothy Love, CAP director Jeannette Neptune, Tribal Clerk Erlene Paul, Central Maine Indian Assn. Roy Paul, Assn, of Aroostook Indians Maynard Polchies, president, Aroostook Indians Michael Ranco, Central Maine Indian Assn. Indian Island Pleasant Point Indian Township Indian Island Indian Township Orono Houlton Houlton Orono DIS is an agency of Diocesan Human Relations Services, Inc. of Maine. Subscriptions to this newspaper are available by writing to Wabanaki Alliance, 95 Main St., Orono, Me. 04473. Diocesan Human Relations Services and DIS are a non-profit corporation. Contri butions are deductible for income tax purposes. New York City To the editor: One aspect of the Maine land case has been its effect on the tribal rolls. In your August issue, page 8, under headline, “Tribal census shows upswing,” you report: “ Membership in the tribe totaled about 800 persons several years ago. and now hovers around the 1,200 figure, according to Nicholas H. Sapiel, tribal governor . . . Sapiel said there are about one hundred more persons on a “waiting list” for tribal membership .. . genealogical research must prove persons are at least one quarter blood Indian ...” Page 3 Indian Island To the editor: Within recent months newspaper articles are generating from Augusta, which in dicate that Governor Longley opposes an Indian Nation. - 1would like to take this opportunity as a private person to explain the concept of Indian Nation in the Indian context. When they (Indians) refer to themselves as a nation, which many o f them do, they are not renouncing the United States. Rather, they are proclaiming that they are a distinct people, who share a common historical ex perience, a common set o f values and a common world view. They just want their s But the one quarter minimum Indian children and their children’ children to be blood requirement is the standard set by secure in the knowledge of who they are and where they came from. They want their own United States Government’s Bureau of Indian Affairs! Yet, your September issue experiences, traditions and values to occupy reports, under title: “ Border talks focus on an honorable place in the contemporary call for Indian rights.” “An estimated 300 society o f our country. When viewed in this eastern Canadian and U.S. Indians prospective, the Indian people say their attended the three days o f workshops, meet claims will lead to the enhancement of the ings and talks . . . a majority o f persons Constitution, not its renunciation. attending the conference were chiefs or The term “ Indian Nation” should not other tribal officials representing Indians frighten the non-Indian society. Special from Rhode Island to Nova Scotia . . . the status for Indian people is a strong element second broad resolution dealing with tribal o f the constitutional tradition o f this government, land and the border calls for country, treaties, resolves, agreements, etc. action allowing reunification o f borderThe attainment o f native goals implies divided tribes (and) self-determination of one thing: The Indian people must be what constitutes a tribe ...” allowed a choice about their future. During my tenure as a law enforcement The actual resolution itself reads: officer for this great state and involvement "Whereas, the aboriginal people and Indian in the area o f Indian affairs, 1 have con tribal governments should re-assert their cluded that the meaning o f democracy from aboriginal rights as either band or tribal an Indian’ point o f view is: That system s entities and should work to abolish all that allows mistakes to be made but it’ also s foreign governmental control over deter a system that allows us as human beings to mination o f their membership which should correct those mistakes. be entirely controlled by the Indian tribal As previously stated in prior meetings, I governments, and . .. be it further resolved that the determination o f band or tribal want to live under the arm o f democracy and also my children. However, I want my membership is an aboriginal right reserved children to be secure in the knowledge of to Indian governments .. who they are and that their heritage and traditions, values and experiences, will hold If the Penobscot tribal council wishes to a respectable position in today’ society. s show its sincerity and implement these As we venture into our third century, resolutions, it should immediately abolish this BIA requirement o f one quarter which many o f us will not see the end of, let’ begin by honoring and respecting s minimum Indian blood. The origin o f the theory that a culture, Indian rights and the rights of all minorities. either Aryan or Indian, can be determined To allow Indian people a choice about their by one’s blood quantum is too well known to own future is to enhance the meaning of the be repeated here. I am a member o f the United States. To deviate from that goal is National Association o f Metis Indians. We to undermine the whole concept o f the do not require that a member have Indian United States. blood, and prove it, but only because we As a young boy, I can remember vividly wish to remain an Indian “family.” the words o f my grandmother and they However, we do not measure our members’ Indian-ness by their Indian blood quantum, but their knowledge and practice o f Indian culture, (i.e., religion, language and traditions) and their devotion and service to the Indian people. In my opinion the Penobscot and Passa maquoddy tribal councils would do well to set such standards for tribal membership, and discard the BIA standard o f one quarter minimum Indian blood. Charles E. Colcord, Penobscot Metis Council Head, N.Y.C. Chapter National Assn, o f Metis Indians were: “ Many people are trying to destroy our traditions and culture but son don’t let them because what you lose can never be brought back because THEY will not allow George M. Mitchell San Jose, Calif. To the editor: Received your first two issues o f news paper. Very good ' well-written and news — worthy. Would like to keep receiving them Ruth Blank, Librarian Indian Center of San Jose, Inc. �Page 4 Wabanaki Alliance October 1977 Bishops voice support for Indian justice The Rev. Raymond Picard of St. Ann’s Parish, Indian Township, with Mary Ellen Socobasin, a Passamaquoddy, and Sister Janet Campbell of the parish. Cursillo: Indians find new faith in self, God INDIAN TOWNSHIP — The Rev. Ray mond Picard doesn’ claim miracles for his t Christian encounter group. But he says that the Cursillo has brought new meaning to people’ lives. s The Cursillo movement in the Catholic Church is widely recognized as an experi ence for groups of adults that has resulted in a renewal of Christian faith and a new sense of personal purpose in life. Father Picard, who joined St. Ann’ s Parish in January, has introduced Cursillo sessions here with considerable success. More than 100 persons at this northern Maine Passamaquoddy reservation have attended the once-only per person three day sessions. Results can be anything from better attendance at Church sendees, to a feeling of self-esteem and new motivation toward a fulfilling life. "It’ a renewal o f faith for the s Indian people who are discouraged with themselves. It’s giving them a new lease on feeling good about themselves and about God,” said Father Picard. Cursillo (Spanish for short course and pronounced kur-see-yo) is an intense, con centrated experience intended to be joyous and rewarding. The session is led by a priest, plus a team o f laymen who spend weeks in prayer and preparation. Persons attending a Cursillo are called Cursillistas — they live and work together, and listen to talks on topics such as Grace, the Sacraments, environment, community action, and “ After the Cursillo.” Father Picard, a 37-year-old Biddeford native, defines a Cursillo as simply, "Getting to relate, to understand; to realize that all life is based on one thing, on love.” Father Picard recalled that one partici pant in a Cursillo commented later, “I’ m finding out the most important thing (in my life up till now) was not my wife and kids, but business and making money.” The participant switched the priorities in his life after the Cursillo. Groups of men and women meet sep arately for a Cursillo, but Father Picard said he feels the overall effects o f the sessions strengthen family ties. He said the Church’ s role in general is "to bring stability to the family.” A pamphlet from St. Paul’ Cursillo s Center. Augusta, says the movement "pro poses no new type o f spirituality, but simply a method through which one's spirituality may be developed, lived and shared in any area o f human life where there are Chris tians willing to dedicate their lives to God in an on-going manner.” The pamphlet says, “The Cursillo gives those who attend it a living understanding of basic Christian truths and the desire to serve the Church. What’ more it provides a s means to continue the Christian formation which is just begun in the three day exercises.” For the Passamaquoddies o f St. Ann’ s, the Cursillo has shown the Indians "they are a loveable people,” Father Picard said. “ If everything in society tells you that you’ no good, that you’ second rate, re re eventually you believe it, if not intellectually, then emotionally,” Father Picard said. But he added, “I see the Indians as a people rich, although not necessarily in material things, in spiritual and cultural values. I see the Indian as definitely going ahead. People are now aware that they can control their own destiny. I don’ think they t were allowed to in the past.” BIA slates funds for Maine tribes W ASHIN GTON — Federal funds totaling $870,000 are budgeted in 1978 for Maine Indians, through the Bureau of Indian Affairs (BIA). Those monies will be available to the Fed erally recognized Penobscot and Passama quoddy tribes, “ As soon as we and the tribes can get together,” according to Raymond V. Butler. BIA chief o f social services. Butler said he has been meeting with Maine tribal officials, and that decisions about how services are delivered to Indians, “Will be entirely those o f the tribes.” Federal recognition o f the tribes in a trust relationship is the result of a process started about four years ago. That relationship officially became effective Oct. 1 . Butler said BIA probably would not have completed the process without the impetus o f the Indian land claims case in Maine. Originally, the U.S. House approved $916,000 for Maine Indians, but this was cut five per cent by the Senate. O f the $870,000, $137,000 is earmarked for Indian services, $252,000 for econ om ic developm ent, $147,000 for natural resources, $270,000 for trust responsibility, and $64,000 for admin istration. W ASHIN GTON — U.S. C atholic Bishops have issued a printed statement on American Indians, that explains the Church position, and spells out the Bishops' com mitment to join native people in their struggle for justice. Their statement, published earlier this year, said in part: “The American Indian people had developed rich and diverse cultures long before the first Europeans came to the American continent. Migrating across this great continent, they dispersed over thousands o f years, from the coasts o f the Pacific Northwest to the arid mesas of the Southwest, the vast grasslands o f midAmerica and the mountains and woodlands o f the East. Adapting themselves to changing environments as they went, they developed over 200 distinct languages and a variety o f carefully developed social, econo mic and political institutions to meet their needs. “ But the arrival o f later immigrants created conflicts not yet resolved. Indian ways o f life were challenged; their very existence was continually threatened by newcomers who were their superiors in the arts o f war. For the Indians, the saga of nation building in America has been a story filled with sorrow and death. “ American Indians in the United States today comprise less than one percent of our total population. In all, they belong to more than 25 distinct tribes and bands. “ Many tribes have retained a special trust status with the United States and continue to live on reservation lands held in trust for them by the federal government. Over the long years, however, many tribes have been deprived o f their communal lands, and with them have partially or entirely lost the traditional vestiges of their culture, their languages, customs and ways o f living. ‘‘During recent decades, increasing numbers o f American Indians, especially the young people, have migrated to cities in search of jobs, shelter and social services which are sorely lacking on many reserva tions. Those who have chosen or been forced to migrate to cities in response to promises of employment and a better life have too often found only new frustrations and broken dreams. Many contend with a deep sense of uprootedness. trying to maintain ties with their families and tribes while coping with the economic hardships and social prejudices, even racism, o f urban society. “ American Indians today are struggling against great obstacles to renew the special values o f their unique heritage and to revitalize the ways o f their ancestors. They are striving to achieve economic develop ment and social justice without compromis ing their unique cultural identity. For some American Indian peoples the struggle is to retain rights to their land and resources; for some it is to gain employment and economic security; and for others, it is to obtain political power in order to set their owrn goals and to make decisions affecting their own futures. These goals, to be achieved within the framework of Indian culture and traditions, test the strength of the American ideal o f liberty and justice for all. America must respond, not to atone for the wrongs of the past, for that in a sense is beyond our power, but to be faithful to our national commitment and to contribute to a truly human future for all. “ As American Catholics, we have a special responsibility to examine our atti tudes and actions in light of Jesus’ com mand to love our neighbor and to proclaim the Gospel message and its implications for society. The Church is compelled, both through its institutions and through its in dividual members, to promote and defend the human rights and dignity of all people. "Accordingly, we recognize our own re sponsibility to join with our American In dian sisters and brothers in their ongoing struggle to secure justice. We realize that there is much that we can and must do within our Church and in society to make our support real. We must first o f all increase our understanding o f the present needs, aspirations and values of the American Indian peoples. This respon sibility can only be carried out effectively in dialogue with American Indians.” Longley opposes State paying reservation priests AUGUSTA — Gov. James B. Longley says he is strongly opposed to the State of Maine picking up the tab for Indian reservation priests, plus paying for other parish expenses. In a recent interview with Wabanaki Al liance, Longley said, “ 1 just feel the State should not be telling you what denomination to believe in.” The Governor said he supports separation o f Church and State, and paying priests’ salaries is in his opinion a clear violation o f that concept. Traditionally, Maine has paid the salaries of the Catholic priests at Indian Township, Indian Island and Pleasant Point. The State has also footed the bill for fuel and utilities for reservation churches and rectories. Longley did not say he is against funds for reservation schools, which are administered by the Catholic Church. Longley has corres ponded with tribal governors and with Dio cesan officials in Portland, but issues have so far not been resolved. Because withdrawal of State support for reservation chaplains appears likely, the Catholic Diocese in Portland has applied for additional funds from a national Catholic commission for Blacks and Indians, to ensure the continued work of the Indian parishes. Longley declined to say what further action he might take in the matter, “1 think I have made my position clear,” he said. Health and social services director sought INDIAN ISLAND — The Penobscot Indian Health and Social Services Depart ment is seeking a Director o f Community and Health Services to plan, organize, and manage programs in the areas o f health services, social services, senior citizens, and youth programs. Preference will be given to a Penobscot Indian, according to a Community Action Program (CAP) official. Applicant must have high potential, interest and experience in the health and human services field. Must be willing to work over and above 40 hours per week. Applicant must he highly mobile and have own transportation, the official said. �Indian panel says land means survival Posing in front of Penobscot Indian health center are from left, Ruth Davis, Paul Buckvalter, Violet Francis and Denise Gilman, all members of a planning committee for the new juilding. [Cartwright Photo] Health services complex under construction INDIAN ISLAND — Construction o f a 5468,000 medical services building is well jnderway here, on a site opposite the Com munity Building. Consisting o f two buildings joined by a passageway, the new center will house the Penobscot Indian Health and Social Services Department. Special programs, previously not available on the reservation, ire planned, along with continued medical services from the tribal health department. Among planned programs are day care, activities for the elderly, various medical clinics, home health aid and a complete range of primary care and social services. "The Penobscots have been underserviced in the Bangor region, explained health department Director Paul W. Buckwaiter, who will become deputy director of the department as soon as a new director is found. “The tribal government is developing its own health department to serve its members and the residents o f the island. We’ setting re up a primary care unit and a social service unit to provide doctors and dentists, medical social workers, day care, senior citizens, family counseling and crisis counseling,” Buckwalter said. The new center is expected to create a number o f new jobs. "One thing that needs to be emphasized and underlined is that preference will''be given to Penobscot people,” Buckwalter said. Buckwalter credited a health and social services committee and the PenobscotPassamaquoddy Tribal Planning Board as, ‘‘ The ones pulling together that made it happen." Construction on the project began last spring, and is slated for completion April 1,1978. Architect for the project was Penobscot Indian Watie Akins o f Lewiston. A Bangor contractor is handling construction. Fund to build the health and social services center were obtained through the Federal Economic Development Administration. Additional funding comes from Indian Health Services, a Federal program o f the Department o f Health, Education and Welfare. If Penobscots were not a Federally recognized tribe, these monies'would not be available. Buckwalter pointed out. Violet Francis, Senior Citizens Club president, said the new center will include a meal site for the elderly, including kitchen, dining room and lounge. "What we want is to have our own cultural foods whenever possible, depending on the season,” she said. Denise Gilman, VISTA worker, health department administrative assistant, and senior citizens treasurer, said the day care program will probably be set up for 25 youngsters. Ruth Davis, R.N., tribal nurse, said the health department hopes to contract with a physician to be at the new building on a regular visiting basis. Rural pediatric services from an Eastern Maine Medical Center mobile unit will continue, she said. ORONO — The cultural importance of land to Indians was described at an informal discussion of Penobscot and Passamaquoddy land claims, at University of Maine here. Oct. 11. "Land is very important to the Indian people. Within the Indian culture we don’ t survive if we don’t have land. Everything relates to the land. We revere the land,” said George M. Mitchell, director of an Indian alcoholism program and one o f three speakers at the evening program. “ From the land we obtain food, clothing and shelter, which are necessities,” said Mitchell, a former Maine commissioner of Indian Affairs. Recalling his days as com missioner, Mitchell said trying to discuss Indian land claims with Gov. James B. Longley was, “like walking into a stonewall. ‘‘Finally, it came to a decision o f what side I was going to take on the land claims. The decision was quite obvious: I went back to my people.” Mitchell said, “We can argue all night, but it (land) was taken away from us. no question.” Mitchell said the current land claims case in Maine shows a desire for Indian self-de termination. “ Some people are trying to create the impression that we’ monsters,” re he said, adding, "W e’ concerned for our re future . . . we want to make changes, but make changes so the traditions and culture are not lost. “ Negotiations (with Federal government to settle claims) are being conducted in an honorable way. Non-Indians have no reason to be afraid o f us,” Mitchell said. Mitchell told about 30 students and a few others at the meeting that Indians were fighting 200 years ago, and “we’ still re fighting today.” He pointed out that Maine Indians helped fight the British in the American Revolution. "Many inferences are going to come from this case. It’ going to change for one thing s history books. You may not think so, but it’ s going to." Mitchell said. Another speaker. Penobscot-Passamaquoddy Tribal Planning Board Director Andrew X. Akins, said he wasn’ surprised t that the State, which opposes Indian land claims, did not show at the meeting. "They only seem interested in publicizing their views through the newspapers,” Akins said. UMO Dean o f Student Activities David Rand, organizer o f the land claims discus sion, said Dr. Ronald F. Banks, a UMO his torian who has been working on the State’ s case against Indians, declined an offer to participate in the program. Akins presented an overview of the two tribes’land case, noting, “As we’ stated in ve the past, we’ not interested in harming in re dividual property owners. We do want land back, that’s true. We want a good land base.” Akins, member o f a land claims negotiat ing team, said he would “welcome" going to court over claims, “that’ how confident we s are.” The third speaker, Penobscot Tribal Lt. Gov. Wally Pehrson, said that despite Fed eral acknowledgement o f some validity to the land claims, “ We have two men in the State of Maine, Gov. Longley and Atty. Gen. (Joseph E.) Brennan, that say our claim has no merit.” Pehrson said a settlement o f land claims favorable to Indians could mean, “We won’ t have to run to Augusta for help, or even to Washington. We’ be able to take care of ll ourselves. "W e’ not lawyers but we do abide by the re law. We’ play the game. All we want is ll what’ rightfully ours,” Pehrson said. s mihtaqsityspomkik eyin, komoc kcit p ot kwlsowon. Mecimite knihk on ape ks in. Tan elipawatomon me cimite k is i le yic, skitkomiq nakate spomkik. M i ii n e pemkiskahk ntopanomon. Onheltomuwine nto la kmiksowakononnul, tal ute n i l u n eli Brewer seeks minority contractors BREWER — Indian business enterprises are being solicited for a variety o f public works projects in the City o f Brewer. The City is undertaking a sanitary sewer project using federal Local Public Works funding from the Economic Development Administration, and under EDA guidelines must spend 10 per cent o f its total grant on services or supplies from minority busi nesses. A letter from Assistant City Manager Reynold Perry says Brewer would like to fulfill its requirement using local or in-state minority enterprises, "so that the maximum benefit of Local Public Works funding can be realized preferably at the local level or at least within the State.” Work on the sewer project will require sewer and pumping station construction, landscaping, structural steel erection, excavation, plumbing, paving, carpentry. masonry, electrical wiring and various supplies and materials, such as hardware and industrial machinery. For more information contact Perry at Brewer City Hall. Botched job (Continued from page 1 ) poor,” the architect for the project as “fair,” and the housing authority as "good," according to housing authority executive director Morris Carpenter. Asked why plans to file suit in federal district court, rather than a county court, Zendzian said, " I ’ much rather have a d federal judge and jury deciding the issues than a Penobscot County judge, not because o f any prejudice but because we’ end up d there (in federal court) anyway.” onh eltom uk ot tan yuhk k is i wa poleyowinokot . Wi cuhkemine skat ntowapoli pec iyahtiw newin. Sami KiI kn ih ka n eya w, kin son, naka komac kocitpos, toke nakate oskomiw. Niy alic . THE LORD’S PRAYER as translated into native Passamaquoddy at S t Ann’ Parish, s Indian Township. The translated text is shared with Passamaquoddies at Pleasant Point reservation. “We have to translate the liturgy into Passamaquoddy,” says The Rev. Raymond Picard, Catholic priest at the Township. �Page 6 Wabanaki Alliance October 1977 An explanation of Penobscot and MAINE: Passamaquoddy and Penobscot The President’ special representative has s expressed confidence that a negotiated settlement can be reached by the first o f the year in the historic land claims case in Maine. Following a series o f meetings in Maine during the month of August, Judge William B. Gunter (Georgia Supreme Court, Rtd.) stated that he will conclude his role in the matter by pressing for mediation and settlement within three months. Unless settlement is reached within this time, he predicts that the economic consequences will become severe within the state. Judge Gunter was assigned by the President in March to study the Indian land cases in Maine and Mash pee, M assachusetts. Widely perceived as a mediator, negotiator and representative o f OMB, he has de scribed his role variously as catalyst, fact finder and “more that of a judge.” Earlier, on July 15, 1977, Judge Gunter recommended that the President urge Con gressional extinguishment o f the legal rights of the Indians in Maine if they did not acquiesce in his proposed settlement terms. (Details o f that recommendation appear in the cron ological listing.) The Passaaquoddy and Penobscot Governors reacted to the recommendations in a joint statement of July 26, stating that they were shocked that the President’ representative made no s provision for negotiating with them and appalled that he had recommended that 90% of their claims be extinguished without compensation should they not accept his offer. “We spent five years getting the courts to force the federal government to act as our trustee. Now this man says that if we don’ t accept his terms, the President should protect the big timber companies by taking away our rights. I just don’ understand it,” t stated Governor Francis Nicholas o f the Pleasant Point Passamaquoddy Reserva tion. Governors Nicholas, John Stevens o f the Indian Township Passamaquoddy Reserva tion and Nicholas Sapiel o f the Penobscot Indian Island Reservation said that the very recommendation that the claims should be settled was further affirmation o f their long standing belief in the validity o f those claims and that, in this regard, "Judge Gunter has come to the only conclusion that any rational man could reach.” The State’ top s political officials. Governor James Longley and Attorney General Joseph Brennan, have consistently maintained that the claims are without merit and. therefore, too weak to settle. However, when Interior and Justice concluded otherwise and informed the court that they intend to file suit on the Indians' behalf unless settlement is reached, the Do you have a d rin k in g p ro b le m ? Wabanaki Corporation offers an alco holism program for Indian people who need help because o f problems with alcohol. If you have such a problem and need help, or know o f someone in need, please contact the Alcoholism Counselor in your community or area. Indian Island Alcoholism Coun selor — Clarence Francis — 207-8277484 or 866-5577. Indian Township — Alcoholism Coun selor— Martha Baustis — 207-796-2321. Pleasant Point — Alcoholism Coun selor — Grace Rudeniek — 207-8532537. Association o f Aroostook Indians — Alcoholism Counselor — Pious Perlev — 207-762-3751. Central Maine Indian Association — Alcoholism Counselor — Alfred Dana — 207-269-2653 or 207-866-5587. State’ politicians recommended total ex s tinguishment o f the claims in order to avoid the test o f litigation. At the request o f the White House, Indian, State and Congressional represen tatives from Maine met in late July to discuss the recommendation with Judge Gunter and Robert Lipshutz. Counsel to the President. In separate sessions, the State rejected the recommendation, the Congres sional delegation urged that settlement talks continue and the Indian representatives in sisted upon negotiation, stating that they would consider the recommendation “a point o f departure.” Following these sessions, Judge Gunter met with various parties in Maine and found the climate fav orable for a negotiated settlement. 1777-1977 The Passamaquoddy Tribe and Penobscot Nation recounted the events o f 200 years and the facts o f their land case in their statement o f March 8,1977: Both our nations fought on the side of the Americans in the Revolutionary War pursuant to a treaty negotiated by a federal Indian agent in 1777. Because of our efforts, much o f Maine is in the United States today rather than in Canada. In that 1777 treaty, the federal government promised to provide us with supplies and promised to protect our hunting grounds. That federal treaty, however, was never ratified by the Con gress and, in a series o f transactions starting in 1794, Maine and Massa chusetts took practically all our lands (ten million acres, half o f the present State of Maine) and left us totally destitute. For 150 years we knew nothing but hardship, although we did keep alive our reservation communities, our cultures and our languages. In 1971 our prospects brightened considerably when we dis covered that, even though our 1777 federal treaty had not been ratified, the state transactions through which we lost our lands were legally void under the 1790 federal Indian Nonintercourse Act, since they had not been federally approved. When we asked the federal government to represent us in our claims, however, the government refused, saying that the Nonintercourse Act did not protect us. We sued the government (and the State o f Maine), and in 1975 won a decision holding that the Nonintercourse Act does protect us and imposes a trust responsibility on the federal government to represent us in our claims. On February 28, 1977, the Depart ment o f the Interior and the Department o f Justice announced that they had con cluded that our tribes have valid claims to at least five million acres in the State o f Maine, and they intend to file suit for return o f between five and eight million acres o f land on June 1 1977. unless a , settlement is negotiated before that time. The government also announced that it will seek monetary damages for the wrongful use o f our lands. As a matter of grace, we agreed that the government should take no immediate action against any o f the 350.000 homeowners and small business people within the claim area, and said that we would accept a substitute claim against the State of Maine or the federal government for the value o f our claim against these individ uals. The State o f Maine, which has stead fastly refused our offer to negotiate, re sponded to these developments the fol lowing day by having the Maine Congres sional delegation submit identical bills in the House and Senate providing for the total elimination o f our claims by retro actively ratifying these illegal trans actions. While the members o f the dele gation tried to tell us that these bills would preserve our rights to sue for money (as though that should be enough), anyone who reads the legisla tion can see that it leaves no claim at all. February 25, 1977 In its modified liti gation report, the Department o f the In terior committed itself to a central role in the efforts to achieve a just settlement o f the Passamaquoddy and Penobscot claims. With tribal agreement. Interior recom mended to the Justice Department that: Claims be filed on behalf o f the Passa maquoddy and Penobscot Tribes for those lands which the Tribes actually used and occupied as o f 1790. Thus, omitted from the claims are those coastal areas which had been substantially settled by nonIndians by that time, and those lands which had been granted prior to 1790, the date o f the passage o f the first Trade and Intercourse Act. . . . these coastal areas are presently the most densely populated portions o f the claimed area. Therefore, the Tribes have agreed at this time to seek an alternative legislative solution with respect to these coastal areas. With respect to those areas ... in which a claim will be asserted, the Tribes have indicated their intention not to pursue any remedy against any homeowner or other small property owner if they can substitute a satisfactory monetary claim against an appropriate sovereign body for the full value of such claims. Accord ingly, we have agreed to assist them in developing a legislative package sub mitting a monetary claim in lieu o f other claims and to support them in obtaining passage o f appropriate legislation. With respect to the coastal areas on which land and trespass .claims will be withheld at this time, we have agreed to work with the Tribes for a similar just legislative solution for these claims. February 28, 1977 The Justice Depart ment announced its intention to proceed on the Tribes’ behalf. In requesting an exten sion o f time to report to the Court, the Justice motion stated: There are two basic reasons for the ex tension. First, an extension is necessary to enable plaintiffs to adequately pre pare proposed claims discussed herein and to coordinate them with other claims against major landholders in the affected areas. While substantial work has been completed additional work is required. Second, the President has announced that in response to the request of the Maine Congressional delegation he is appointing a special representative to help the parties reach an amicable settle ment for submission to Congress. The extension o f time is necessary to allow all parties to engage in meaningful settle ment talks and to permit Congress suf ficient time to adopt any agreement reached. As stated in our memorandum o f January 14, 1977, only Congress can correct past injustice to the tribes with out causing new hardship to other citizens o f Maine. We therefore fully support and endorse the settlement process. On the other hand, if it proves unsuccessful, we have no choice but to proceed with the litigative course. . . . March 4, 1977 Senate Indian Affairs Committee Chairman James Abourezk (D-S.D.) declined to hear the extinguish ment bills, H.R. 4169 and S.842. He re sponded to the Justice announcement and to the proposed extinguishment legislation in a meeting o f the American Indian Policy Review Commission. (The Maine delegation had requested that the Commission not take a position on the land claims issue at that time and the Indian Governors agreed, in order to avoid precipitous action in the Congress regarding their litigation and settlement talks. The Commission agreed to withhold full consideration of the issue and commended the Indian people in Maine for their patience and statesmanship. One Commission Member, however, later violat ed the agreement. Rep. Lloyd Meeds, DWash., within weeks o f the meeting, pub lished his Separate Dissenting Views to the Report o f the Commission, which included a chapter recommedning extinguishment of the legal rights o f the Passamaquoddy and Penobscot people. As his views, prepared by a private attorney at a cost o f 537,000 to the Commission, dissented to a non-existent Commission position, he urged for inclusion o f a settlement on the Maine land claims in the Commission Report. At the final Com mission meeting, a brief and hastily pre pared statement was inserted into the Report.) In the March 4 meeting. Sen. Abourezk made the following statement: I think it is highly commendable of the Administration to come out as they have with a very positive position on this, to say that we are going to help the tribes because we owe them that duty . . . . I would say that, speaking only for the Senate Indian Affairs Committee, I do MUSEUM LACKS FUNDS — The Indian Tribal Museum at Unity ended its regular season recently, mostly because the building, a former meeting hall, is unheated, but also because attendance was low. The independent museum is in dire need of funds, according to Director Lloyd Varney of Waterville, who volunteers his services. Varney has been cataloging material at the museum, about 75 per cent of which is connected with Maine Indians. �Wabanaki Alliance October 1977 Page 7 Passamaquoddy tribal land claims not intend to have any hearings on that legislation that was introduced . . . . If the time comes when we ever have to have hearings on anything, it will not just be on that legislation. It will be on the entire question o f negotiations o f the rights of the Indian tribes in Maine, and where the justice o f the situation can be aired to the Congress. It is not going to be any one-sided consideration o f that kind o f a bill, and 1 don’ much like the t bill either myself. 1just want to say that on the record. It just seems to me that it would be a very one-sided attempt to obviate and preclude any just claim on the part o f the tribes. Now, for how many years have we been saying that the Indians ought to get into the political process and the legal process, and once they are in it they get screwed up against the wall. That is not very good encour agement for Indian tribes to do that kind o f thing; the same thing we have been encouraging them to do. They are entitled to their day in court, and I commend the Indian tribes o f Maine ... for their efforts to negotiate this matter in a very reasonable manner . . . I don’ t know about the House, but I’ not going m to hold any hearings .... legal and public relations staff. Judge Gunter, who characterized his role as that of a “catalyst,” was never to call a meeting of all the parties. Subsequently, Judge Gunter held separate sessions with all o f the above parties, private interests, members of other Eastern states’ Congressional delegations, representatives o f the Office o f Management and Budget and the chairmen o f Congres sional committees with jurisdiction over Indian legislative matters. At Judge Gunter’ request, legal issues were briefed s over the next two months by Maine Attorney General Brennan, Attorney Edward Bennett Williams (Special Counsel to the Maine State Governor), NARF attorney Tom Tureen for the Tribes, Professor Archibald Cox (Special Counsel to the Passamaquoddy Tribe and Penobscot Nation) and others. One meeting held during Judge Gunter’ s period o f review was with representatives of the American Land Title Association, which was reported in the ALTA publication. Capital Comment: ALTA representatives met in May with Judge William B. Gunter . . . . The pur pose o f the meeting was to express the title insurance industry’ concern with s pending and potential ’Indian land claims. The uncertainty o f status o f land titles in Maine and Massachusetts be March 12, 1977 President Carter an cause o f such claims was given particular nounced the appointment of his special emphasis. Federal Legislative Action representative in the Maine and Mashpee Committee Chairman Dawson described cases. Judge William B. Gunter, whose the difficulties o f transferring land in the identity was unknown to the Indians prior to ‘ claim’ areas because o f the inability of the public announcement. House Interior sellers to provide assurance o f market Committee Chairman Morris Udall (D.-Az.) able title. Dawson also stated that the and Indian Affairs & Public Lands Sub interest o f ALTA is essentially identical committee Chairman Teno Roncalio (D.to that o f the land owners. As long as Wy.) responded to the recent events in a there is a question regarding title to news release the same day, stating that they property, he explained, hardship and in would “take a dim view" o f any party not justice will be experienced by land participating in good faith in the negotia owners holding property in good faith. tions: In order to alleviate these inequities, the Whatever the ultimate merit and legal ALTA representatives recom m en ded validity o f these claims, there is no that any federal legislative solution in denying the impact that they have had clude the following two ingredients: (1) within the affected states and communi land owners, purchasers, lenders and ties . . . . Yet, despite this impact, we local tax authorities must be assured that must support the right o f the tribes to existing titles are marketable and in initiate and proceed with litigation to try surable; and (2) land owners must not be their claims. Under our Constitution and subject to financial liability for trespass system o f law, every individual has a damages or any other forms o f damage. right to his day in court, whatever the ul Judge Gunter stated at the meeting that timate legitimacy o f the claim. If we deny his primary concern is to relieve the it to one, we can deny it to all. Neverthe eco n om ic uncertainties that have less, we are not unsympathetic to the resulted from the Indian claims. How local problems caused by the claims nor ever, the judge stated that if legislation is the desire for an expeditious solution and proposed to extinguish aboriginal title, settlement o f the claims . . . . We are he feels confident that the Indians would advised that there is a serious effort to challenge such extinguishment on con achieve a negotiated settlement. We stitutional grounds unless it provides full understand that the Indian tribes, the compensation for the value o f the ex Interior Department, and the Justice De tinguishment title. partment support this approach and Judge Gunter indicated that he had been have obtained consent from the Federal told the Maine Indian tribes, the PassaDistrict Court to extend, until June 1 the , maquoddys and Penobscots, have placed deadline for filing the Federal suit. We a claim as high as 525 billion to reflect also understand that, at the request of the full compensation for the value of certain members of the Massachusetts 1 */2 million acres in Maine that are 2 C on gression al delegation. President under dispute. Carter has agreed to appoint a Federal ALTA Special Indian Research Coun mediator to work toward a negotiated sel John Christie, Jr., stated that he is settlement. At this time, we would confident Congress could devise a strongly urge this approach. solution that would be upheld consti Therefore, we feel that it is inappropriate tutionally^ and agreed to furnish the for the Congress to involve itself in the judge with a legal memorandum in dispute at this time. Under existing cir support o f this position. Later in May, cumstance. it is our position that the ALTA forwarded to the Judge a legal House Committee will initiate no legisla analysis indicating that a legislative tive or oversight activity on the matter in proposal can be — and should be — order to facilitate the possibility o f a developed to resolve the hardships and negotiated settlement. inequities that have resulted from the pending Indian land claims. It was March 20, 1977 The President's special contended that such legislation would representative held a “ get-acquainted clearly be within the power o f Congress meeting” with the State and Indian Gov to enact and would not give rise to any ernors and their counsel, the Maine Con valid fifth amendment claims. Presently. gressional delegation. Interior and Justice ALTA’ Indian Land Claims Committee s officials and members o f the President’ s is structuring a legislative approach and language that would protect present and past land owners from financial liability or any other form o f damages and would make certain that present titles are mar ketable and insurable. Judge Gunter said he was uncertain as to whether he would recommend a legis lative solution. His present focus is on the need to devise a procedure by which the litigation will continue to an end, with Congress determining a ceiling on the amount o f property and money damages that could be recovered if the Indians prevail. Following a June meeting with the Chair men o f the Senate Indian Affairs Committee and the House Interior Committee, Rep. Udall and Sen. Abourezk communicated with Judge Gunter and President Carter and issued a joint statement calling for a Con gressional-Administration effort to provide funds for neutral third party mediators for each claim, where needed. Such an initiative, the Chairmen stated, “places a premium on obtaining the agreement of all affected parties” without extinguishing “those Indian claims which are meritorious and thus repeating historical injustices to the Indian people.” Their requests for the mediation effort and for consultation prior to the announcement o f recommendations regarding the Passamaquoddy and Pen obscot case went unanswered. July 15,1977 Judge Gunter submitted his written recommendation to the President: I have given consideration to the legal merits and demerits o f these pending claims. However, my recommedation is not based entirely on my personal assessment in that area. History, economics, social science, justness, and practicality are additional ele ments that have had some weight in the formulation o f my recommendation. My recommendation to you is that you recommend to the Congress that it resolve this problem as follows: (1) Appropriate 25 million dollars for the use and benefit o f the two tribes, this appro priated amount to be administered by In terior. One half o f this amount shall be ap propriated in each o f the next two fiscal years. (2) Require the State o f Maine to put together and convey to the United States, as trustee for the two tribes, a tract o f land consisting o f 100,000 acres within the claims area. As stated before, the State reportedly has in its public ownership in the claims area in excess of 400,000 acres. (3) Assure the two tribes that normal Bureau o f Indian Affairs benefits will be ac corded to them by the United States in the future. (4) Request the State o f Maine to continue to appropriate in the future on an annual basis state benefits for the tribes at the equivalent level o f the average annual ap propriation over the current and preceding four years. (5) Require the Secretary o f Interior to use his best efforts to acquire long-term options on an additional 400,000 acres o f land in the claims area. These options would be ex ercised at the election o f the tribes, the option-price paid would be fair market value per acre, and tribal funds would be paid for the exercise o f each option. (6) Upon receiving the consent o f the State of Maine that it will accomplish what is set forth in numbered paragraphs (2) and (4) above, the Congress should then, upon obtaining tribal consent to accept the benefits herein prescribed, by statutory enactment extinguish all aboriginal title, if any, to all lands in Maine and also extin guish all other claims that these two tribes may now have against any party arising out o f an alleged violation of the Indian Nonintercourse Act of 1790 as amended. should immediately extinguish all aborigi nal title, if any, to all lands within the claims area except that held in the public owner ship by the State o f Maine. The tribes’ cases could then proceed through the courts to a conclusion against the state-owned land. If the tribes win their cases, they recover the state-owned land; but if they lose their cases, they recover nothing. However, in the meantime, the adverse economic conse quences will have been eliminated and Interior and Justice will have been relieved from pursuing causes o f action against private property owners to divest them o f . title to land that has heretofore been con sidered valid title. (8) If the consent o f the State o f Maine cannot be obtained for what is herein proposed, then the Congress should appro priate 25 million dollars for the use and benefit o f the tribes (see paragraph num bered (1 should then immediately extin )), guish all aboriginal title, if any, and all claims arising under an alleged violation of the 1790 Act as amended, to all lands within the claims area except those lands within the public ownership of the State. The tribes’ cases could then proceed through the courts against the state-owned land. If the tribes win their cases they recover the land; but if they lose their cases they recover nothing against the state of Maine. However, in the meantime, they will have received 25 million dollars from the United States for their consent to eliminate economic stagnation in the claims area and their consent to relieve Interior and Justice from pursuing causes o f action against private property owners to divest them of land titles that have heretofore been con sidered valid. It is my hope that the Congress can resolve this problem through the implemen tation o f numbered paragraphs (1) through (6) above. Paragraphs (7) and (8) are mere alternatives to be utilized in the event consensual agreement cannot be obtained. (Reprinted with permission from Announce ments, August 1977, Native American Rights Fund.) HEW okays bi-state welfare services plan ORONO — The Federal government has agreed to fund a two state, six county research and demonstration project for child and family welfare services to Indians. First year funding from the Department o f Health, Education and Welfare (HEW) totals 5110,000, according to Michael Ranco, director o f Central Maine Indian Association here. That association, the Association o f Aroostook Indians, and the Boston Indian Council had requested the grant in a proposal submitted to HEW several months ago. Wabanaki Alliance incorrectly reported in its August issue that an initial grant had already been awarded at that time. The story should have said only that a grant proposal had been delivered, and was under consideration by Federal officials. The grant monies will be used for research in Maine’ Penobscot, Washington s and Aroostook Counties, and in Massachu setts’ Lowell, LawTence and Worcester areas. Ranco explained that the project will seek to improve foster care for Indian children, who are often placed in non-Indian homes on an arbitrary basis. Other parts o f the (7) If tribal consent cannot be obtained to study will deal with family reunification and what is herein proposed, then the Congress solutions to child abuse, he said. �Page 8 Wabanaki Alliance October 1977 Indian scholarships said not in jeopardy OLD TOWN — A Maine Indian Scholar ship Committee awarded a number of grants improperly, according to an opinion by the Attorney General’ office. s However, officials of the Indian Scholar ship Committee told Wabanaki Alliance, that thg improper awards were an oversight that can be easily corrected by “ratifying” those scholarship grants already awarded. No students will lose their funds, an official said. At the request o f Rep. Michael D. Pearson of Old Town (D-District 7 9). Assistant Attorney General S. Kirk Studstrup wrote in a Sept. 1 letter. “ It is our understanding that the Indian Scholarship Committee ... met during the month o f July 1977, and sent letters to applicant scholars awarding grants for the coming school year. "These letters were apparently sent without knowledge by the Committee of legislative action by the 108th Legislature . . . any award of scholarships by the Com mittee to individuals who do not meet the current definition o f North American Indians residing in Maine would be contrary to statute and must be considered as improperly granted." Studstrup stated in his letter to Pearson. The legislative action Studstrup mentions was a bill (LD 415) introduced by Pearson that defines North American Indians residing in Maine as any current member of the Penobscot or Passamaquoddy tribes, or any Micmac or Malacite Inidian who can prove one quarter Indian blood and who has resided in Maine five consecutive years prior to apply for a scholarship. To belong to either the Passamaquoddy or Penobscot tribe, an Indian must be at least one quarter blood, but for Micmaes and Malacites. the case may be difficult to prove. In any case, if scholarship grants were awarded to Indians who did not meet the new requirements, those awards would apparently be invalid. Further complicating the matter is Studstrup's statement that. “The Committee had no statutory authority to award any scholar ships, regardless of the qualifications o f the applicants, during the period from June 27. 1977 to July 25. 1977." Earlier this year, at a House budget vote. Pearson said he opposed passage. "Because there wasn't a cent in there for Indian scholarships.” Later, with Pearon's new definition for Indian scholarship aid. the 108th Legislature passed the budget as emergency legislation. The budget in revised form earmarks $55,000 for North American Indian Scholar ships. Pearson’ bill. L.D. No. 415, defines s the qualifications for scholarship aid. which will probably total $1,000 or less per individual. Pearson defended his definition o f eligible Indians, saying he acted in the interests of his Old Town constituency, which includes Penobscot Indians at Indian Island. “ 1did it (presented a bill) because the Penobscots asked me to do it and because I feel that now Indians scholarships will be going to Indians.” In past years, scholarship monies were not guaranteed to Maine Indians, he said. Pearson explained that scholarships can cover "anything from learning how to be a beautician to going to college.” The funds can be used for all kinds o f secondary and post secondary education, he said. HOUSING was the topic of a recent training session at Bangor. Among participants were from left, Robert Newell, Passamaquoddy housing commissioner from Pleasant Point, Jack Partridge, an official of National American Indian Housing Council, Clayton Cleaves, Passamaquoddy housing authority director, and Joel Frank, housing authority vicechairman from a Seminole reservation, Hollywood, Fla. Housing leaders hold session BANGOR — Indian officials from local housing authorities from Maine to Florida gathered for two days o f intensive training at a Bangor hotel recently. Represented at the teaching sessions, sponsored by National American Indian Housing Council (NAIHC), were Passamaquoddies and Penobscots from Maine. C herokees from North Carolina dn Seminole Indians from Florida. “We’ providing training not as a comre merical endeavor, but to ensure" that Indians are aware o f their rights and power tinder existing housing regulations. “They are in the process of learning about the regulations that govern their housing programs." said Jack Partridge. NAIHC training coordinator. Partridge called the lectures, discussion and video tape lessons a form o f "orienta tion training” for Indian officials. He and co-teacher Wynema Coyle, both from NAIHC headquarters in Carson City. Nev., led 25 other participants through work shops. Partridge and Coyle's program is funded by the Department o f Housing and Urban Development (HUD). Partridge said HUD’ s Indian housing programs are so difficult to understand. “ It's an absolute wonder that there has been any success at all o f the housing programs (on reservations).” HUD has its own trained experts for various programs. Partridge pointed out. But Indians have no such advantage, he said. The Bangor conference was called Preparation for Decision Making. Addi tional training sessions will cover other topics, and will be scheduled elsewhere. Vickie Tibbetts [Laber photo] Penobscot woman learns drafting skills By Dottie Laber U.S. Soil Conservation Service ORONO — Vickie Tibbetts of Hudson is a budding draftsman with the U.S. Soil Conservation Service. She is well-liked for her combination o f a peppery personality and hard-working attitude, according to her co-workers. Vickie has been working since she was 15 years old. He first job, making sock linings in a shoe factory, was followed by a series of others in shoe shops and woolen mills. These jobs were not to her liking. Yet with an eighth grade education, Vickie, a Penobscot Indian, had limited choices for employment. Then she got a break. A cousin told her about CETA (Comprehensive Employment and Training Act) which helps unskilled people find jobs. Through the local CETA office Vickie was placed in the Soil Conservation Service (SCS) as a supply clerk. After that things began to improve. Vickie caught on quickly to the supply system that serves five U.S. government agencies on the University o f Maine, Orono campus. Secretaries soon recognized that a tricky reproduction job was easy for Vickie. She enjoyed tinkering with an old offset duplicator to get top-notch printing results. SCS — a U.S. Department o f Agriculture agency which helps landowners, organiza tions and town conserve and wisely use both soil and water — renewed her first appoint ment. But regulations eventually ended the job. Meanwhile another section o f the agency needed a person to do simple, but accurate drafting on soil survey maps. Vickie was given a new, temporary appointment. Though neither skilled nor familiar with the material, she caught on and produced clean, correct maps. A professional draftsman with SCS com mented that Vickie showed a natural skill for drafting. But again, the work was temporary. When she found that she might not get a good, permanent job without a high school education, Vickie turned back to her school-, books. In less than six months she successfully completed her high school equivalency tests. With the GED (General Educational De velopment) diploma in hand she qualified for a worker trainee appointment and returned to the Soil Conservation Service in the spring o f 1977. But even the earlier ex perience w'as limited background for the engineer drafting she now does for the Watershed Staff o f SCS. “ I couldn’ do it without the help of the t guys here. Without them 1 wouldn’t have understood what 1w-as doing.” And, by im plication, she would not have been able to do a good job. Vickie’ work includes drafting on maps s o f flood prone areas in the state, being studied under Flood Hazard Analyses or Flood Insurance Studies. The work requires a steady hand and sharp eye for detail. Lettering and demarcation lines must be drawn precisely as she transfers statistics reported by a survey crew onto maps. “Vickie is a valuable addition to our Watershed Planning Staff,” says State Conservationtist Warwick Tinsley, head of the SCS in Maine. “We appreciate her sparkl ing personality as well as her expert drafting skills, which we so sorely needed in our or ganization.” Vickie and her husband, Duane, have a daughter, Lori, 10, and son, Floyd, seven. Vickie is expecting a new baby before the year is out, but will be back at her job before long. Catawba Indians seek tribal land WASHING I ON — The Catawba Indian Tribe is considering legal action to recover its 140.000 acre reservation in South Carolina, according to a recent news release from the U.S. Deparpent o f the Interior. The Interior Department recommended that the Justice Department begin legal action on behalf o f the Catawbas, according to Interior Department Solicitor Leo M. Kulilz. Caiambas want the return o f 1 5 square miles at Rock Hill. S.C. The news release said the Catawba claim is similar to land claims by Maine’ s Penobscot and Passamaquoddy Indians. As with Maine, the Catawba claim is based on alleged violation o f the 1790 Non-Intercourse Act. which required all treaties be approved by Congress. By 1840 the Catawba's Treaty reservation was overrun by non-Indians who continually ignored the Tribe's protests. “ In 1840.” Krulitz said, “ the Tribe finally purported to convey their remaining title and interest in the 140.000 acres to the State of South Car olina by treaty. The Federal Government was in no way involved in the negotiations and never subsequently gave its consent. The 1840 conveyance was therefore void under the Non-intercourse Act.” “ The action we recommend is that the United States finally act upon its long neglected duly under the Non-Intercourse Act to nullify the 1840 Treaty with South C arolina and restore possession of the 1763 Treaty reservation to the C atawba Tribe.” Kriilitz said. �Wabanaki Alliance October 1977 Proud (Continued from page 1 ) reservation; Dee said “it doesn’ matter t where" she does her work. Both bright and articulate, Freda and Dee participated last summer in an Onward program at University o f Maine, preparing them for college. Dee reports there are more than 100 native Indians attending UMO as freshmen this year, a dramatic increase from previous years. Although Indians may attend the univer sity tuition-free, that doesn’ necessarily t make life easy. There are still many bills to pay. Money is only one problem. Dee and Freda have had more than their share of problems growing up, but have emerged from trying circumstances as strong and mature individuals. Freda is a graduate o f Ellsworth High School. She left home in the Boston area at age 14, and was invited to live with an Ells worth family. She credits that family with making it possible for her to be where she is today. Freda has three brothers and one sister, but her mother was generous and tried to care for a total of 11 children. Freda tried to help, but the responsibility was over powering for a young girl. In school in Boston, Freda recalls being teased about being Indian. So she pretended she was Oriental, and that worked for awhile. Living on her own, moving to Maine, made Freda, in her words, “tough and bitter.” to be But her contact with the Ellsworth family showed her people could be gentle and caring, and she wouldn’ have missed that t experience for the world. Freda has not been in touch with her parents, Margaret and Wilburn Harper of Moncton, N.B., in some time. She wants them to know she loves them very deeply. And she also loves her “family" in Ellsworth. Dee has only lately become close with her mother, but is very happy to share things with her today. Her mother, Irene Aug ustine, recently moved to Bangor, and the two can see a good deal of each other. “ I didn’ do w’ in school in Bridgewater, t ell but my foster mother in Houlton really encouraged me,” Dee recalled, adding that in Junior High School, “ 1 was going to quit school. But (my foster mother) stood by me. It was such a hard year; I cried a lot. But it felt so good to be loved.” Dee has four sisters and three brothers. The next year of junior high, Dee decided to make the Honor Roll, and she did. She won a Citizenship award, and that made her extremely proud and grateful. Freda also won a Citizenship award at her school. Both Dee and Freda have lived on New Brunswick Indian reservations. Dee at Big Cove, Freda at Eel Ground. The women said their sense o f Indian-ness deepened with that experience, and both would like to revisit the reservations, located near New Castle, N.B. Micmac students attending UMO are Freda Harper, left, and Dee Francis. Thomas quits PIE, Wehrman hired INDIAN ISLAND — A 32-year-old Bangor man has been hired as general manager of Penobscot Indian Enterprises (P.I.E.). replacing Michael D. Thomas who resigned in September for employement elsewhere. Hired to direct the Penobscot Indianowned business was George F. Wehrman. a New York City native who graduated from University of Maine with a degree in business. Wehrman has marketing research and development experience, and formerly owned a construction firm. P.I.E.. organized through Thomas’efforts in 1976, operates a moccasin factory at Indian Island that employs 24 persons. A retail outlet store is maintained at Bar Harbor. Since its founding, P.I.E. assets have grown from $27,500 to $430,000. P.I.E. o fficials have recently been negotiating for a sizeable loan to expand business enterprises. Other P.I.E. projects include a heating firm and service station, wilderness waterway recreation program, and several proposed new ventures. Wehrman said he is currently developing new plans and marketing strategy, but he declined to discuss details. Wehrman spent eight years as a pilot in Air National Guard, Bangor. He and his wife have two sons. Gerrard warns of political pressures WASHINGTON — Forrest J. Gerard, recently confirmed Interior Assistant Secre tary for Indian Affairs, has challenged national Indian leaders to join in the prepar ing o f a national policy statement on Indian affairs. Gerard made the challenge in an address at the 34th annual convention o f the National Congress of American Indians (NCAI)in Dallas. Texas. Gerard acknowledged that “there has been concern on the part o f the Indian Page 9 people that this Administration has yet to announce a comprehensive Indian policy statement.” He said that the Administration wanted the Assistant Secretary to take the lead in policy initiative for Indian affairs. Gerard then asked NCAI and the other major Indian organization, the Na tional Tribal C hairm en’ A ssociation s (NTCA). to "com e up with a joint policy statement... so that we will have your input in formulating policy.” Passamaquoddy educator Wayne Newell looks over text in native language. Bi-lingual project thrives at reservation INDIAN TOWNSHIP — “ It’ like learn s ing to read twice, except the second time it’ s much more beautiful.” That’ how Passamaquoddy educator s Wayne Newell began describing a program he has helped create to bring the native Indian language into the classroom. Since 1971, with a grant from the federal Depart ment o f Health, Education and Welfare, and with diligent work by concerned staff, the program has flourished. Newell is modest about his own role in developing the language program at Indian Township elementary school, and would rather not take credit personally for its success. He said that Indians working together, with a unified purpose, deserve the credit and recognition. Newell, 35, a Passamaquoddy Indian born at Pleasant Point, chose to return to his people rather than seek a career away from the reservations. A graduate o f Ricker College with a master’ degree in education s from Harvard, Newell directs the only Indian bi-lingual project in New England. More than 50 books have been published through the program, most of them written in a standardized Passamaquoddy, and a few of them in both English and the native language. These books, a great many of them illustrated for children, recount traditional Indian legends and stories that were almost lost to present Indian genera tions. The books are used in the school, o f which Newell is a co-principal, and Indian teachers instruct pupils in spoken and written Passa maquoddy, one lesson per day. Passama quoddy teachers share duties with certified (non-Indian) teachers in the classroom. Schools such as the one at Indian Township are part of the state system, but remain under jurisdiction of the Catholic Church. Newell, who said he much prefers actual teaching to administrative work, believes education goes well beyond the classroom walls. Already a progressive curriculum in a cheerful, modern building, education at Indian Township involves field trips, com munity involvement and creative use o f a variety o f resources such as graphic arts and audio-visual equipment. A field trip to dig up a traditional Indian medicinal herb is at least as important as a lesson in algebra, Newell said. “ We’ ve changed the attitude — 1 guess that’ what s we’ done mostly. In the 20th century there ve are certain skills we need, but they’ not re our savior,” he said. Newell talked about “reshaping our thinking” during an interview at the school. "The values we are trying to keep are those values that our forefathers had. “We’ not re paddling canoes, but we can shut off our TVs and tell stories,” he said, adding, “We do this in the Newell household.” Newell said he hopes the bi-lingual program will show Indian children their cultural roots, so that they may become aware and proud o f their heritage. Newell became involved in the language program when he realized, “Things were slipping out o f our grasp.” Is Indian culture being preserved? “Time will tell,” Newell said. “ In the school we try to teach that every body has a part, that we’ all in it together. re When you examine it, there was always something missing in education, at least in my education, in the so-called white m an’ s education,” Newell said. An advantage o f the Passamaquoddy language project, officially known as Wabnaki Bilingual Education Program, is that the Maliseet Indian language is virtually the same, and the two tribes have little difficulty understanding one another when conversing in their native languages. A similar language was shared by Indians of the Algonkian group, from Newfoundland to the Great Lakes. Newell explained that know and using on e’ own language leads to a sense o f pride s and self-worth for Indian children. “You don’t talk about pride, you experience it. You find ways to feel good about being Indian," he said. Although federal funding for the bi-lin gual project is about to expire, the program itself is expected to continue and expand. Newell said he has seen many programs come and go, but this one is different. "I never say that this is the way to do it. I just want to lay the foundation,” Newell said. The language needs to be taught, “ Not in the sense o f somebody forcing it on you, but because it’ part o f you. s “ One o f our goals is to make this school the happiest place on the reservation,” he said. Rhynard still on job as commissioner AUGUSTA — Maine Indian Affairs Commissioner Charles W. Rhynard was still on the job as o f press time, although he hinted he might work only part time until a replacement is named. Rhynard, a consultant from Camden, took the commissioner’ job at the request s of Gov. James B. Longley last spring, with the understanding he would leave after 90 days. However, the State has been unable to find a successor to Rhynard, and Rhynard has already overstayed his original tenure by a month. Rhynard’ predecessor, Penobscot s Indian George M. Mitchell, quit the post over a dispute with Longley. The Department o f Indian Affairs was created in 1965 by then Gov. John Reed. �Page 10 Wabanaki Alliance October 1977 Fraud discovered in Townships purchase Upper Townships returned to the State Although Trafton sent his report accom the various accounts however apparently are (Continued from page 1 ) panied by the affadavits of the Indians and Land Office show at least a quarter of the In that treaty the Tribe gave up all claims the work of one Stephen Lovejoy of Old sent them directly to the Governor by the lots in Township 3 were marked Smith as to lands in the State o f Maine except the Town, who does not seem to rate very high hands o f Joe Sockabason and Peal Mitchell, well as several in No. 4. Whether this is the islands in the Penobscot River above Old in Indian Agent Mark Trafton's opinion. t who as he says in^a letter to the Governor of same Smith who was Governor I don’ know The report o f the sale made to the Gov Town, two acres of land in Brewer and four Maine dated June 18th, 1833 can give a but it looks somewhat odd considered townships o f land each six miles square, ernor and Council of Maine by the Com good explanation o f what went on and against other known facts. whose locations are described in the treaty missioners is a model description o f how1 think with this information at hand it answer any questions. It would seem that and which are to be surveyed and laid out as land transactions with Indian peoples isn’t too hard to figure out why Lovejoy, Governor Smith did nothing. soon as possible. This was eventually done should be carried out. They speak o f their Roberts and Bartlett showed such arrogance When Trafton’s four year term as Agent but not without some prodding from the proposition of sale being “cordially was up in 1836 a certain Joseph Kelsey was and contempt to Trafton and his Penobscot Tribe since we find that the Resolve passed received," o f the Tribe "convening their t appointed to succeed him. Kelsey was the friends. It isn’ too hard either to see why in 1826 to re-survey the two lower townships Council and Chiefs, consisting o f members man who was chosen by the State to survey their Prayers and Petitions encountered did not occur until the Legislature was of both parties." o f "having public delib and lot the Townships in 1834. In 1835 the blind eyes and deaf ears when they reached erations on the matter — for several weeks.” directly petitioned by the tribal officials. second conveyance o f land on the Townships Samuel Smith, Governor o f Maine. During the fifteen years the Tribe held the o f “frequent interviews with us by delegates T o the above account I have an inter to an individual by the State was tor a tract Townships they derived a considerable appointed by their convention and receiving from us a full explanation o f the subject.” o f 2,881 acres which was bought by Amos esting Postscript to add, taken from Louis income from them. The Agent could, under Roberts, Samuel Smith and Edward Smith. C. Hatch’s History of Maine (1919) VoL I This report filed with the Governor and the law. lease cutting rights to persons or (Note the first two names.) This was in Page 197 in giving a short account o f Gov. companies who wished to cut on Indian Council is exactly opposite to the facts as s February 1835. In April o f the same year Smith’ life, a postscript that fits ideally land, the income from which was set up in a presented by the reports and affadavits of Roberts bought 8.467 acres more. The entire with what we have learned: "Judge Smith trust fund for the Tribe. The Agent however, Mark Trafton, the Indian Agent and the was an able lawyer, industrious, well cost o f the two sales was about SI.00 per was not long in finding out that much o f his Penobscots themselves. s acre. Between this time and 1838 when an supplied with this world’ goods, and said to Apparently on June 10, 1833, Tribal Gov lime was being spent in trying to keep out ernor John Attean and some others signed a investigation o f the whole affair was made be very diligent in acquiring them.” lumbermen cutting illegally, or in Court One more item needs to be added also by the legislature the State Land Agent had trying to get those who had already cut and deed purporting to sell the Four Townships s to the State. According to Trafton and the issued 66 deeds to land on one or another of from Hatch’ history; and that being that sold illegally, to pay up. Smith was an “ Ardent Supporter" of the Four Townships. Indians’ report Stephen Lovejoy had been State pressures Tribe President Andrew Jackson’ s Indian Investigation dropped Soon the Agent had another problem to on the Island for about a week previous to The next reference found to the matter is Removal Policy. contend with. Squatters began to move in this trying to get the Indians to sell their Copy of deed located the Legislative Investigation o f 1838. In and build camps and houses and sometimes lands. What Lovejoy was doing there instead I wish also to add that in addition to not their papers we find where Governor Kent only the presence o f the Sheriff with the o f the Commissioners is unknown. Accord submitted copies o f the documents as being recorded the Original o f the Four Agent was sufficient to remove these later ing to later reports by most Tribal members requested. It is among these copies that we Townships Deed has apparently been lost. no one was aware the Commissioners had comers. find the only surviving text of the Four After a diligent search o f material in Maine Finally in the middle 1820’s the State any intention o f purchasing Indian land. Townships Deed. What this committee of State Archives including quite a bit o f help Lovejoy promises new homes officials began to pressure the Tribe to sell After a while, by some means, Lovejoy the Legislature discovered we do not know by the people working there, we have been their two lower Townships where most o f the unable to find the Original Deed. but they quickly dropped it. trouble was occurring. The tribe consistently prevailed upon the Governor and several However, some time after our search a On March 22, 1838, the committee refused to sell and there the situation rested, others to meet him and Bartlett on the day reported to the House and Senate that they copy was located. The copy was found in a until an unfortunate chain o f circumstances following at the Indian School at a set time collection o f papers from the various past wished to be “relieved from any further con conspired to change the whole picture and to sign a paper. For doing this Lovejoy sideration o f the subject.” The report was legislatures known as the “ Legislative in time to change the whole course o f Pen promised them all that the State would t read and accepted without comment in both Graveyard.” Much o f this material hasn’ build them new houses. He cautioned them obscot Tribal history. Houses. From there on the record tells us yet been sorted and indexed. All this not to mention this to anyone else. Tribal disruption material in relation to the Four Townships At the hour appointed they met at the nothing, except as I said in the beginning, in In 1816 John Attean had been elected the summer following a joint tribal meeting in the form o f copies had been presented to Governor or Chief of the I ribe and John school but two or three men standing near the schoolhouse saw them go in with Bartlett to impeach Attean and Neptune and choose the Legislature by Governor Edward Kent in Neptune Lieutenant Governor. Both were response to a legislative order for an inves new leaders was held. chosen for life in accord with the law of that and Lovejoy and resolved to go in and see lt was destined to be the last time that tigation into the matter. time. The Chiefship had been aemi-heredi- what was going on. When they arrived and The copy o f the deed shows one defect such a convention was to be held between tary for several generations although it did found the question was the sale o f the the three Federated Tribes, Malaseet, Pass- that quite likely prevented its being not necessarily descend to the sons o f the Townships these two or three opposed it recorded. It shows no evidence o f ever being amaquoddy and Penobscot. The old leaders former Chief. The office of Chief was with vigor. The Governor then seeing how things refused to step down and the new leaders acknowledged before a Justice o f the Peace elective but the new Chief had to be related elected at that time (August 31, 1838) or Notary Public as required by Law. in some way to the old. Over the years since were going, requested that the signing be The plain record o f what took place attempted to assume authority resulting in a 1816 a number of differences had arisen put off until the next day but Lovejoy political confusion that was to last for the during the transaction combined with a between Attean and Neptune, some o f them refused and urged them to sign, promising legally defective deed that has been lost and next three decades. In such a state of con personal rather than of a political nature. that next day the Commissioners would fusion in the Tribal Government, lasting for never recorded gives the State and all who The rift grew and eventually divided the reutrn with a legal document that would such a long period, (a whole generation) it derive title from her a very shadowy claim at secure them in all their rights. Some o f those Tribe into two political factions. was fairly easy for the State officials to cover best to land on the Four Townships. In time (some time after sale of the Four present then signed the deed after which Note: S. Glenn Starbird, Jr. is currently Townships) Attean and Neptune again Bartlett and Lovejoy left and had still not up their part in the affair. employed by the Penobscot Nation as tribal Deed lost or destroyed became friends and put aside their other come back when the Indians finally told The deed to the Four Townships has been historian and genealogist. He is a former disagreements but the opposition party who Indian Agent Mark Trafton o f the above lost or destroyed and has never been deputy commissioner o f Indian Affairs for had originally sided with Attean now felt described events some two days later. recorded. The State Officials who figured Maine. A general meeting o f the Tribe was called that he was no better than Neptune and decided that they both should be thrown out on the 13th of June and a messenger was prominently in the affair later as purchasers sent to get the Agent who was in Bangor. He o f land on the townships or in the possession of office. The final rupture o f the Tribe into the agreed to meet with them and did so on the o f more lucrative State jobs. I believe the two deeds to Roberts and his Old Party (favoring the Old Governor & Lt. 14th o f June. On learning the truth of what Governor) and the New Party (who wished to had happened and the strong opposition of Associates however, viewed against the choose new leaders) did not occur until the the whole Tribe to the sale of any of their background o f the Trafton Report and the summer o f 1838 but the party factionlism lands, even the Governor and those others Affadavits o f the Tribal Members submitted INDIAN TOWNSHIP — A Massachu with it, as well as the curiously worded and political unrest in the Tribe, an unrest who had signed, “ appeared to be sorry,” report o f the Joint Select Committee on setts contractor has been hired to construct that had risen to such heights as to prompt and “all requested me to write to the Gover Indian Affairs submitted March 22, 1838, a municipal building here, by a vote o f the John Neptune to completely vacate the res nor o f the State not to take away their lands Passamaquoddy tribal council, Oct. 3. ervation early in 1832. was sufficient for the without the consent o f the Tribe." So throws a flood o f light on the whole dirty Dalton Industries o f Chelmsford, Mass., business. State to take advantage o f it and try again to reported Mark Trafton the Indian Agent. has agreed to construct the new fire and An odd circumstance In addition to the charges of Bribery and purchase the Four Townships o f Penobscot police complex for $137,550, a figure With the material presently available we land that certain State officials had long corruption levelled at the Commissioners by slightly higher than the $129,000 the tribe Trafton should also be added that of can prove nothing against those men of viewed with covetous eyes. budgeted for the building. False report filed forgery, lt is plain that at least one man’ s course, but isn't it an odd circumstance that Approval o f Dalton’s bid took place at a In 1832 the Stale Legislature passed a name was signed to the document without one o f the Commissioners appointed to buy joint meeting of the Indian Township Resolve (Chapter 1 1 o f the Resolves of either his knowledge or consent, that of the Indian lands should be almost the first 1 housing authority and the council. At an to purchase part of those lands from the 1832) authorizing the Governor and Council Captain Peol Sockies. earlier council meeting several bids on the John Neptune did not sign either for he State, along with a certain Samuel Smith. to appoint two "commissioners who are em proposed project were opened, but all tar powered on behalf o f the State to purchase had been gone for over a year. Peol Molley Whether this is the same Samuel Smith, exceeded the project budget. from the Penobscots such o f their lands as signed for him claiming to have been given who was Maine's Governor in 1831-32-33 1 In other business, the council recently t they may be disposed to sell, at such price, authority to do so. but that claim was later have been unable to determine. Isn’ it also voted to approve spending a local public lime and mode o f payment as may be agreed denied. Joseph Poris' (Polis) name is also very strange that Joseph Kelsey the surveyor works grant on grading and drainage work, upon." The two commissioners appointed affixed, signed by a mark. Why should Polis who lotted No. 1 Indian Purchase for the and a "good gravel collector road,” at Peter were Amos M. Roberts o f Bangor and sign by mark when only a few days later he State should be appointed Indian Agent in Dana Point. Funds for those projects total 1836 to replace Mark Trafton? In addition signed a petition protesting the whole Thomas Bartlett o f Orono. $78,000. to this the Copy o f the survey o f the Two Most o f the maneuverings described in business in his own hand? Bid awarded on town building �Wabanaki Alliance October 1977 Page 11 Reprint of recent Maine map showing Indian PurchasesT^ Map showing Indian purchase areas. See story front page and opposite. \ Brennan says history supports State's case against Indians AUGUSTA — “ History is on our side,” says Maine Atty. Gen. Joseph Brennan, discussing the Penobscot-Passamaquoddy Indian land claims case. And that’ what Brennan wants to con s vince the nation’ top counsel to believe. s Brennan met recently with U.S. Atty. Gen. Griffin Bell in Washington to present the State’s side o f the 12.5 million acre Indian and claims suit in which the federal gov ernment is suing Maine on behalf o f the ribes. Brennan called his meeting with Bell, "A ;ood meeting, a healthy meeting. Our liscussion was fairly general. We weren’ t lown there to negotiate, we were there to alk about this case in reference to how trongly we feel about our defenses.” Bell /as “very receptive,” Brennan said. Also attending the Washington meeting 'as Thomas Tureen, lawyer for the Maine -ibes. Brennan said he and Bell, "Discussed the ase rather generally and we feel we have ;ry substantial and historical defenses . . . nportant for us to bring to the attention of ie chief lawyer o f the country.” (Brennan later told a Maine Sunday Tele ram reporter that he is considering asking lat a Federal court case granting the tribes le right to pursue land claims be opened.) In an interview with Wabanaki Alliance, rennan said he is critical o f Federal govnment. "1 don’ see how they can sue t nocent people." the Attorney General id. referring to non-Indian citizens of aine. “I’ not unaware of the less than proud m history o f this country and the tribes. But you cannot ignore that 200 years is a long time. You run into problems when you try to rewrite history,” Brennan said. Brennan bases the State’s case on the fact that Maine did not achieve statehood until 1820, and is not responsible for actions involving Indians prior to that time. Also, Brennan claims a 1790 Non-Intercourse Act — the crux o f the tribes’ claims — does not apply to Maine Indians and never did apply. Brennan maintains the 1790 Congres sional act was intended for Indians in other parts o f the country, and does not apply to New England Indians. The Penobscot-Passamaquoddy claims are based on the argu ment that treaties subsequent to 1790 were not ratified by Congress as required under the Non-Intercourse Act. Also, Brennan argues tribes lost their title to land in the period 1755-1790. “The more research we do, the more confident we are that our defenses are strong,” Brennan said, citing research being done by historian Dr. Ronald F. Banks at University o f Maine at Orono. Brennan is confident he is well prepared for any upcoming court battles. Widely known lawyer Edward Bennett Williams is a consultant on the case, and Brennan himself is a former Cumberland County District Attorney, and spent eight years in the Leg islature. However. Brennan conceded that Indians have "articulate voices” on their side, in cluding Native American Rights Fund, a national organization. Asked if he favored a Presidential adviser’ compromise recommendation that s Indians be given 100,000 acres plus $25 million, Brennan said, “It would be rather awkward for me to recommend giving away the State’s lands when we feel we have a strong defense.” Brennan said since there is a dispute, “ 1 guess disputes are best resolved in the courts. I don’ support paying off claims t that are unfounded,” he added. Brennan said if the land claims case ends up in court, proceedings could last five to six years. He does not think any immediate out-of-court settlement is likely to occur, he said. In his role as Attorney General, Brennan said he must, “ Look at whether we’ being re responsible to all the people o f the State o f Maine.” Brennan also said, “ I think whatever takes place in Maine will set a national precedent.” Planner needed MERIDEN. C l. — American Indians for Development (AID) has announced a job opening for a planner. The Indian advocacy group is seeking someone to fill a slot with an annual salary o f $17,000. A job description says the planner will work closely with five consortium tribes in developing a compre hensive plan, and will develop broad management and administrative policy for AID programs. Other duties will include evaluation and accountability techniques. Forrest Gerrard confirmed BIA head WASHINGTON — Forrest J. Gerard has been confirmed by the U.S. Senate to become the first Assistant Secretary for Indian Affairs in the Department of the Interior. Gerard's confirmation came after the Select Committee on Indian Affairs gave its unanimous approval to the full Senate. In the past the top job at the Bureau has been Commissioner o f Indian Affairs, but Interior Secretary Cecil Andrus announced when he took office that the position would be upgraded to that o f Assistant Secretary. Gerard, a Blackfeet, was nominated for the position by President Carter following an extensive selection process. His nomina tion had been questioned by Sen. James Abourezk, D-S.D., but before the Commit tee vote Abourezk explained to the members that his doubts about Gerard’ willingness s to make changes in the Bureau had been overcome during the confirmation hearings and that he was going to vote for his con firmation. Gerard brings an extensive background in Indian affairs to the post. He retired last year from the staff o f the Senate Interior Committee which had been responsible for Indian Affairs in the upper chamber. He also has worked in the Bureau o f Indian Affairs, Indian Health Service, and prior to his nomination had operated a private consulting firm working with Indian tribes. During the confirmation hearings Gerard said his top three priorities upon taking office would be to strengthen the trust functions o f the Bureau, to help strengthen tribal governments, and to improve service delivery to the tribes, either through direct delviery by the bureau or through self-deter mination mechanisms initiated by the tribes. �Page 12 Wabanaki Alliance October 1977 News briefs A flashback to the past AAicmacs list demands ESKASONI RESERVE. N.B. — A 400page document that lists a series o f demands by Canadian Micmac Indians was presented to government officials here recently by 1 2 Micmac chiefs, representing 5.500 reg istered Indians. According to a story in Indian News, a Canadian publication. M icm acs have spelled out demands in the areas of education, economic development, social services, welfare, local sovereignty, royalties on mineral and other leased resource rights, and “an increased land base for the sole use and benefit of Micmac people and complete taxation exemption."’ Also. Micmacs slated in the report that they want a range of medical services, and a program of cultural preservation. At the presentation of the document. National Indian Brotherhood President Noel Slarblanket said. " If the government refuses to recognize and guarantee the aboriginal rights of Micmacs. it will display to all. the complete disregard the govern ment could have toward the fulfillment of its lawful and moral obligation. "All the eyes of Canada will be upon us and watching how we negotiate . . . do not compromise or concede aboriginal title,” Slarblanket said. Indian talks held at Geneva GENEVA, Switzerland — A conference on discrimination against American Indians ended here last month with a resolution asking for United Nations protection. A wire service story said that concern was expressed at the week-long conference about “plunder and exploitation” o f native lands by multinational - corporations. A U.N. Human Rights subcommission was asked to study the case. Other resolutions o f the conference included demands that Indians have the right to own their own lands and natural resources, and that legal services be provided to ensure those rights. TV program set ORONO — Maine Indian Journal is the title o f a half hour, monthly television program being organized here at Maine Public Broadcasting Network (MPBN) studios. The first segment o f the program is scheduled for 10 p.m., Monday, Oct. 10. on MPBN TV stations. The show will be taped Oct. 7, at the network’ studios on the s University o f Maine campus here. The first Maine Indian Journal program will tentatively include an interview with the heads o f Maine’ three Indian reservations. s Penobscot Gov. Nicholas Sapiel. and Passamaquoddy Governors Johii Stevens and Francis Nicholas. Hosts for upcoming Journal programs may be Joseph Nicholas, Project Indian Pride director at Maine Indian Education offices. Calais, and Jean Mitchell, a Univer sity o f Maine student and a member of the Penobscot-Passamaquoddy Tribal Planning Board. Inc. Nicholas is a Passamaquoddy; Mitchell is a Penobscot. WINTRY SCENE — Three unidentified Penobscot men pose in the snow for anthropologist Frank G. Speck in 1910, in this photo from the Museum of the American Indian collection, New York City. Reprinted with permission. Andrew X. Akins o f Perry, who submitted the photo to Wabanaki Alliance, asks if readers can supply any information. Quaker group tapes talk on land case ORONO — A Quaker service group filmed and taped a discussion o f Maine Indian land claims recently, at Maine Public Broadcasting Network studios here. The Maine Indian Program Committee, plans to use the videotape program to educate people on the land claims case. "The purpose o f it is really to reduce ten sions, to get people talking,” said Robert L. Cates of Bradley, committee member and producer o f the program. Called Four Perspectives.* the program consists o f a panel discussion o f Penobscot and Passamaquoddy Indian land claims to 12.5 million acres of the State. Panelists are Wayne Newell, Passamaquoddy Indian, educator and member o f a land claims negotiating team; Willard Walker of Wesleyan University, anthropology profes sor; Robert Reuman o f Colby College, philosophy professor; and lawyer James Mitchell, former Maine State Housing Authority director. The Indian committee contracted with the public broadcasting studios to make the film and tape. Assisting with production was Kim Mitchell, a Penobscot Indian employed at the studios. Cates said the videotape may be used in schools, and will be available to interested groups of any kind. Someone will hopefully accompany the program at showings, to explain background. Among remarks on tape was a comment by Newell that he thinks, “ A settlement can be reached in 1977 that is acceptable to the Indian people. The legal system o f this country continues to back us,” he said. Q u estion s for the panelists were moderated by Winnie McPhedran o f Readfield, another Quaker committee member. At one point Mrs. McPhedran asked why don’ Indians join the traditional “melting t pot.” Newell answered, “We want to participate but on our terms. In the past 200 years it’ s always been us giving up something.” Mrs. McPhedran asked about an image of Indians as people who are “lazy and drink too much.” Newell responded humorously that the same could be said about the Maine Legislature. Newell defended Indians’ handling of the land case in terms o f economic disruption, saying, “We have gone out o f our way to seek a negotiated, out-of-court settlement.” Mitchell said that if Indians “win” their case, “we all win” because o f an expected increase in jobs and revenue. Mrs. McPhedran asked why Congress doesn’t simply extinguish land claims. Mitchell answered, “Because it’ outrage s ous. Congress has done a lot of bad things, but they wouldn’ do that. 1 don't believe t Congress is in the mood, now that the Indians are using the court system, to cut that out from under them.” Mrs. McPhedran ended the panel discus sion, saying, “ I hope that in some way our consideration will be helpful.” Land claims seminar slated at Portland PORTLAND — The University o f Maine at Portland-Gorham is sponsorin g a seminar on Maine Indian land claims, Sat urday. Oct. 29. at the college’s Portland gymnasium. Scheduled speakers at the all-day program include Thomas Tureen, lawyer for the Penobscot and Passamaquoddy tribes, Maine Atty. Gen. Joseph E. Brennan, Passa maquoddy Gov. John Stevens, Penobscot Gov. Nicholas Sapiel, and Wayne Newell, Passamaquoddy educator and member o f a land claims negotiating team. Members o f Maine’ Congressional dele s gation may also attend. On the agenda, entitled A Claim o f Ancient Right, is dis cussion o f the history, economics, politics and legal aspects o f the Penobscot-Passa maquoddy claims to 12.5 million acres of aboriginal land. The U.S. Justice Department has been ordered to file suit against the State on behalf o f the tribes, seeking S300 million damages based on the land claims. That suit has been in abeyance while a Presidential advisor seeks an out-of-court settlement of the case. The seminar is set to start at 9 a.m., ending at 4:30 p.m. Registration is open to the public, for a $20 fee that includes lunch. � Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource <em>Wabanaki Alliance</em> (October 1977) Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Indian Resource Center Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1977-10 Contributor An entity responsible for making contributions to the resource Donald Soctomah Julia Brush Language A language of the resource English Type The nature or genre of the resource Document Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource pdf Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context DV-423 Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Passamaquoddy Cultural Museum Rights Information about rights held in and over the resource Steve Cartwright. Used with permission. https://www.dawnlandvoices.org/collections/files/original/74316797958dcd1e98c100887d1dccf1.pdf 6ccccc64f6b7821d41ea22c451eba3e7 PDF Text Text A L B U Q U E R Q U E , i.il Non-profit Organization U.S. Postage Paid 3.1c Permit No. 15 Orono, Maine ; 7i l O W abanaki A llia n ce October 1979 Thieves take $2,000 from tribal office PLEASANT POINT — Nearly $2,000 in cash, checks, deeds and other valu ables were taken from a 200-pound safe stolen from the Passamaquoddy tribal community building Oct. 12, in early morning hours. Officers o f the Washington County Sheriffs department, assisted by tribal police, located the safe on South Meadow Road, near the reservation, several days following the theft. Its contents were missing, according to Passamaquoddy public safety officer. John Bailey. The exact amount taken was recorded at $1,915.. The stolen checks were reportedly found in a garbage bag behind the community building by Harold Sockabasin, a Pleasant Point resident. Sockabasin said he was walking his dog, when the animal uncovered the checks in the bag. Although thieves caused over $500 in damage to three doors to gain access to the building, the safe was opened without apparent damage, suggesting the possi bility of an "inside job.” Bailey said. The burglary was discovered about 7 a.m. by women who run the snack bar in the community building. The building’s night watchman leaves at 5 a.m. The burglary occurred at some point between those two times, Bailey said. The tribal police, who usually cruise the reservation until 7 a.m. had reported ly signed off at 5 a.m. that day. The Federal Bureau o f Investigation (FBI) joined the investigation because of the new federal status of the reserva tion. Land claim talks continue PORTLAND — The decision to extend a deadline on Maine Indian claims was delayed last month. Meanwhile, the lawyer for the 12.5 million acre claim says high level negotiations continue behind closed doors, under an agreement not to reveal any JOY — Happiness can be as simple as climbing on the jungle gym at Indian Township, as information to the press. Thomas N. Tureen, who has handled the these Passamaquoddy youngsters demonstrate. Penobscot-Passamaquoddy case the past eight years, said in a telephone conversation from his Portland office the tribal negotiat ing committee has agreed not to discuss new developments publicly. However, Tureen mentioned that a hearing on whether to grant an extension of time to negotiate an out-of-court claims , country,” and major crimes are subject to settlement is scheduled Nov. 1 in the BANGOR — William A. Holmes, 22, federal jurisdiction. Holmes may be the first chambers o f U.S. district court -Judge accused of manslaughter in the death of individual to be tried in federal court as a Edward T. Gignoux, Portland. Penobscot, Adrian Loring, 29, o f Indian result of that test-case ruling, known as the Island, has pleaded not guilty by reason of Sockabasin-Dana case. insanity. The manslaughter charge was In an interview, Silver said, “This is reduced from original charges o f murder, in the first serious (Indian) case that has been connection with the alleged July 14 slaying dismissed in state court and action taken in on the reservation. federal court.” Silver believes Holmes, an Holmes and his lawyer Warren M. Silver By Brenda Polchies Alabama native, will be tried “fairly of Bangor appeared Oct. 5 before U.S. Area Reporter quickly; I’ guessing that in the next three m Magistrate Edward H. Keith, after Silver HOULTON — Potato harvest has been in months there’ be a trial in federal court ll argued in state superior court that Maine progress for a few weeks and everyone is very right here in Bangor.” He said Judge had no jurisdiction on the Penobscot reser busy hand-picking potatoes, working on Edward Gignoux of Portland will probably vation, and the judge agreed, dismissing the m echanical harvesters, driving potato preside. Gignoux is known for favorable Holmes case. trucks, etc. The sight and smell of potatoes rulings in the Penobscot-Passamaquoddy The grounds for the dismissal had been are everywhere and if it's in your blood, the land claims case. laid earlier in the summer when the state urge to get out into the fields is very strong. Silver told Wabanaki Alliance that supreme court ruled unanimously that This is the time o f year when children are let (Continued on page 9) Indian reservations in Maine are “ Indian out o f school for three weeks to help bring in Holmes pleads innocent in Island manslaughter case The Nov. 1 hearing was granted by Gignoux at the request o f the triber. ac cording to Tureen. The matter o f an exten sion was not resolved at a hearing held in September. The latest claims extension expired Sept. 1 . 1 The federal government has requested a dozen extensions since the claims case was First filed in 1972. In recent developments, the state has retained former Nixon laywer James St. Clair as counsel for the claims case. Tribes are currently seeking about 300,000 acres in a $79 million settlement o f claims based on land taken without Congressional approval required under the 1790 nonintercourse act. Maine Indians face an April 1,1980 dead line for resolving claims. Indian families fake to fields for Aroostook potato harvest Township housing bids exceed budget INDIAN TOWNSHIP — Two bidders only offered estimates for construction o f 35 units o f housing at Peter Dana Point, and the Strip, on the Passamaquoddy reserva tion here. Neither bid was within a proposed budget. Housing director George Stevens Jr. told Wabanaki Alliance that Housing and Urban Development (HUD) “will have to give us an answer pretty soon. They have the ball. We had planned on starting in August or September, now it may be October,” he said. The bidders on the “phase three” federal Indian housing project were P. L. Willey of Caribou, and Shostak, of Augusta. Houses are estimated at $68,000 per unit in the current project. Already some planned houses have been assigned to tribal mem bers who are eligible. the potato crop and this gives them a big opportunity to earn extra money to buy school clothes, winter boots, and other needy essentials. Young people, housewives, and a surprising number o f professional people and old timers like to get involved in this activity which requires a lot o f stamina, physical strength, and, while in the fields, everyone must cope with the extremes of weather. Depending on what you are doing and in a good week, barring rain and machinery breakdown, you can bring home an average o f $160 to $200 per week. Particularly at this time too, large numbers of Maliseet and Micmac Indians from Canada come into Aroostook County to participate in the harvest and remain here for approximately three months o f the year to continue working to help finish up with the crop after the children have commenced classes. This minority migration, whole families which consist o f parents, brothers, sisters, uncles, aunts, and grandparents who move here and set up semi-permanent housekeeping arrangements, swells the pop ulation numbers and contributes favorably to the economy o f the county. Selling potato baskets takes on a brisk business and farmers who are still using the hand-picking method and are concerned about the condition o f their potatoes are practically begging for this much needed item. After all the hustle and frenzy of getting the potatoes in, things come to a standstill and the fields look very empty, forlorn, and lonely. �Page 2 Wabanaki Alliance October 1979 editorials Age as a resource From time to time this newspaper has carried stories about elderly Indian persons, their talents and skills. We print such stories with a special reverence, for we have com e to believe older people have a great deal to offer. The elders o f the Maine tribes, whether 60, 70 or 80 and m ore years old, possess a knowledge o f earlier times and old ways. The oldest surviving members o f the Maine Indian community are actually a link to the past century . . . before cars, planes, radio, plastic things and all the technilogical achievements we take for granted even existed. Older people may not know very much about computers and color TV, but they may remember how to weave baskets, how to trap and hunt, how to speak a language that is heading for oblivion. They may remember how to tell stories, and how to eke out a living during lean times when money and sometimes food were scarce. Perhaps, one could argue, the old people’ skills and knowledge s are obsolete today. W ho needs them? The answer is two-fold. First of all, those old skills are not so useless. In an age when we are returning to wholesome, natural foods; wood heat and an appreciation o f natural resources; living off the land, in harmony with nature’ balances, makes good sense. s Secondly, the old people’ knowledge gives Indians their roots. The s old people are the most traditional o f us all, because they have spent more years at it, and their memories may span a generation or two earlier. The tribal elders are living history books. They provide access to the past, and access to the lore and wisdom that can only be accumulated over decades. Indians traditionally respected their elders, and often let the old people make critical decisions. While this may not be entirely possible today, we have another suggestion: Let the old people visit the schools. Elderly men and women could share their memories and abilities with children o f all ages. A simple story re-told by an old person would be a priceless treat to a young Indian pupil largely unaware o f his or her heritage. A lesson in making snowshoes, pack baskets, moccasins or beadwork could capture children’ imagination. s Why not establish a program to bring the elderly tribal members into the classroom on a regular basis, presenting workshops on a variety o f Indian topics? Not to understand and listen to our old people is to lose a wonderful resource. THREE GENERATIONS — Albert Dana, left, an expert fishing guide at Indian Township, enjoys the company of nephew Joe Hamois, and one year old Sean Cote, son of Audrey and Anthony Cote. Dana is a board member of this newspaper. Poetry The Kennebecs Questions/Answers We look, searchingly, to others only to find mirroring quests can we find our answers through the eyes of creation? or by listening to the earth? by watching the sky? Is it under the rocks or ocean? or in the death we’ taught to fear, re the coming o f darkness o f night. Red Hawk Untitled The night was tainted by my painted face at the bar. More wine, song and dance to a rumpled morning. Loved by no one and screwed again. (The Abenaki was a loose confederation o f five Maine tribes. The last Kennebecs died over one hundred years ago — their language is dead. Elements o f the four tribes remain.) The Kennebecs are gone like the elk’ breath in winter. s Echoes ring Abenaki councils touch the Passamaquoddy memory moves the Micmac and Maliseet portent stirs the Penobscot. Their words are lost and leaf mold covers flint chips. Arnold Perrin Belfast Red Hawk B u reau cratese Wabanaki Alliance Vol.3,No.lO October 1979 Published monthly by the Division of Indian Services [DIS] at the Indian Resource Center, 95 Main St., Orono, Me. 04473. Steven Cartwright, Editor William O ’ Neal, Ass’ Editor t. DIS Board of Directors Jean Chavaree [chairman] John Bailey, Public Safety Coordinator Albert Dana, Tribal Councilor Timothy Love, Representative to State Legislature Jeannette Neptune, Community Development Director Jeannette LaPlante, Central Maine Indian Assoc. Susan Desiderio, Assn, of Aroostook Indians Maynard Polchies, President, Aroostook Indians Melvin L. Vicaire, Central Maine Indian Assn. Reuben C. Cleaves, Representative to State Legislature Indian Island Pleasant Point Indian Township Indian Island Indian Township Orono Houlton Houlton Mattawamkeag Pleasant Point DIS is an agency of Diocesan Human Relations Services, Inc. of Maine. Subscriptions to this newspaper are available by writing to Wabanaki Alliance, 95 Main St., Orono, Me. 04473. Diocesan Human Relations Services and DIS are a non-profit corporation. Contri butions are deductible for income tax purposes. Will inflated words never cease? We are living in an age o f bu zz words, big words and bogus words. People no longer “d o ” things; they “ impact” or “implement” things. But d o they honestly d o any thing at all? Why not use plain talk to describe something simply and clearly? We live in the noun age. We hear about “facilitation” instead of action; “capability” and “specialist” instead o f skill and worker. Where has good old-fashioned skilled work gone? Many o f these puffy words are obvious attempts to impress the reader that something very important is going on. A recent press release from the Interior Department says “Acting Bureau o f Indian Affairs deputy Commissioner Sidney L. Mills has announced that the M inneapolis Area Office reorganization task force is working on the implementation o f the reorganization o f the M ineapolis office. The final restructuring o f the office is scheduled to be completed by April 1980.” We can hardly wait. �Wabanaki Alliance October 1979 Page 3 letters Prison culture group Father was guide New York City Elmira, N.Y. To the editor: To the editor: I am writing for five reasons. First to say I read your account o f your trip down the Allagash. “thank you” for your efforts through the When I was only a small boy my father Alliance. A friend o f mine receives your guided hunting parties down the Allagash. paper, and that is how I learned o f you, Mostly businessmen from Boston and New which brings me to the second reason for York. I used to listen to his stories about the writing. I would like very much to receive trips and I always swore I would make the your paper if this is possible. We Natives in trip myself someday. prison hear very little concerning our people My father didn’ remain a guide for long. t out there. To receive your paper would be He only made two or three trips. He became both an honor and also a need cared for. disgusted with his charges. He said, “They Third, would you be interested in printing shoot a moose and they only take the head. some Native poetry and articles I have They leave the rest o f the body to rot!” He written? I would be glad to send them, just didn’ want to be a part of it, so he quit. But t say the word. Yawaha. My fourth reason for he loved the woods, and if it hadn’ been for t writing is to ask you if it’ possible to get the s the slaughter, he probably would have con address of a chief you spoke o f in a past tinued to guide parties whenever he could edition. His name is Chief William Rattle have gotten away from the farm. snake Jackson, of the Southeastern Chero I guess he must have communicated his kee Confederation, Inc., Georgia. love o f nature and the woods to me. When My fifth purpose in writing you is o f great ever we went for walks together and he saw a importance. We Native Americans, present new bird or plant or flower, he would point ly confined in Elmira Correctional Facility, it out to me and tell me about it and what Elmira, New York, have been approved to made it special. begin a Native American Culture Group. Before I close I want to tell you that you We are in need o f support, not actually did a fine job on that story. You not only monitary support, but rather we need items made the story come alive, but the people as such as literature (strictly Native American well. Incidentally, you can tell Nick Dow cultural material, past and present). Also we that my dad used to paddle standing up too. are looking for small bead looms, needles, And I’ seen him flip the water out with a ve beads, etc. We are also looking for distribu paddle until it was dry. And lots o f other tors of Native American books, films, and tricks, too. We spent a lot o f time together tapes so we might purchase these things for on the water, when we weren’ too busy with t our group. “And we need your spiritual the chores on the farm. support.” Thanks for bringing back a lot of We are ambitious, and very concerned memories. with establishing a permanent culture group Charley Colcord here — not only for our own good — but for the good of all Natives to unfortunately follow us through this prison. Any and ail support, or letters o f interest would be very New Britain, Ct. much appreciated with deep gratitude. And To the editor: Wabanaki Alliance, thank you for being I will appreciate information about your there. work and resources. I am compiling a file on Andrew F. Ramage resources of Indians in the Eastern United States, for use o f students in my courses. #77a-2502, Elmira Jack A. Lucas Correctional Facility, Associate Professor New York 14902. An inquiry Lost c friend To the editor: Haven’ received my August issue yet, and t I feel that I’ lost a friend! No letter from ve home during August! Perhaps my subscrip tion has run out. Please renew. Thank you so much. Jean Watson Alaska request Unalaska, Alaska To the editor: Would it be possible for you to send a couple of issues o f the Wabanaki Alliance newspaper to me? The Indians here are very interested in what the paper contains; etc. I would appreciate your reply/newspaper. Glenda Currier A SWINGER — Stephanie Bailey, five, of Pleasant Point, gets a posh from Ricky Soctomah, while her brother Peter, eight, and Percy Moore, seven, look on. Police incident points to deeper conflict AKWESASNE — Strife at the 27,000 acre St. Regis Mohawk reservation here stems not so much from a recent confrontation with white man’ law, but from the collision s of traditional Indian and modern non-In dian values. According to recent reports in Akwesasne Notes and The New York Times, from 50-200 Mohawks barricaded their homes following a police raid involving reservation and New York State Police. The raid followed the arrest o f traditional Chief Loran Thompson, charged with grand larceny after he seized chainsaws belonging to a reservation YACC (Young Adult Con servation Corps) program. But the conflict runs deeper. Thompson represents an undetermined number of the Mohawks who call themselves traditional. Another group of reservation Mohawks follow elected leaders. The YACC crew, part o f a federal project, was clearing land to Health center explains appointment rules The Penobscot Indian Medical Center operates on an appointment system. The system is designed to give you quality health care with less waiting time. When you request an appointment, it facilitates matters if you state a reason for the appointment. Different procedures re quire different lengths o f time. For example: a physical examination requires 30-40 min utes, a sick patient may require more or less time, a change of dressing about ten minutes and a shot just a few minutes. This is important to know, so that we can give you as prompt an appointment as possible. Emergencies have priority. If you come or call in the morning you may get an appointment that very day. How ever, appointments may be scheduled many days ahead, if the appointment schedule is filled. When you come for your appoint ment, check with the receptionist and let her know you have arrived. Wait in the waiting room area until your name is called. If you are unable to keep an appointment, please, try to notify the clinic in advance and make another appointment, if needed. When you are late for an appointment, the appointment becomes invalid, but you may be seen as a walk-in patient. Other patients may be seen ahead o f you. Walk-in patients will be seen on a firstcome-first-serve basis as can be worked in between appointments. PRIMER — Passamaqaoddy language teacher Lorraine Gabriel, right, works with pupils at Indian Township elementary school. Students have one native language lesson per day. erect fences. Lawyer William M. Kunstler of New York City said fencing in Mohawks contradicts Indian culture. Kunstler ap pealed to New York Governor Carey to avoid a confrontation that could be worse than the 1973 Wounded Knee incident in South Dakota. Traditionals argue that the 1794 treaty of Canandaigua says Indian legal disputes must be settled by a council o f chiefs. That treaty was made between the U.S. and Six Nations (Mohawk. Oneida, Onandaga, Cay uga, Seneca and Tuscarora). The Six Nation Iroquois confederacy was founded at least 400 years ago. Meanwhile, some Senecas, on the Cattar augus and Allegheny reservations, call them selves modem Indians — with programs for health, vocational training, housing. But Tonawanda Senecas, on another reserva tion, reject the influences and programs from outside. If you have any questions or feel you have some special problems, please contact Ruth Davis or Phoebe Gray by calling 827-6101. You can make an appointment by con tacting the receptionist at the medical facility at any time between 8:00 a.m. and 4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday. The number is 827-6101. Indian Cookery Sweet Pickled Beaver 1 beaver, skinned and cleaned Vz cup vinegar 1tablespoon salt 2 teaspoons soda 2 tablespoons dry mustard 3 tablespoons mixed pickling spice 1 teaspoon cinnamon Vzteaspoon ground cloves Vz cup brown sugar Vz cup dry white wine or apple juice 1 cup pineapple juice Juice and grated rind o f 1 lemon Wash beaver thoroughly with salt water, then let soak overnight in enough cold water to cover, adding Vz cup vinegar and 1 table spoon salt to the water. The next day, remove the beaver from the brine, wash and cover with a solution o f 2 teaspoons soda to 2 quarts o f water. Bring to a boil, reduce heat and simmer 10 minutes. Drain and rinse the beaver, then place it in a clean pot. Add water just to cover. Sprinkle mixed pickling spice on top, bring to a boil, reduce heat and simmer 20 minutes. Drain and rinse beaver, pat dry and place in roaster. Mix mustard, spices, sugar, wine and fruit juices and spread over beaver. Cover and roast at 325° F. until tender, basting frequently. �Page 4 Wabanaki Alliance October 1979 An Indian decides to play it straight ORONO — Tom Thurlow has reached the age of 30, but the turning point in his life is not age, but attitude. Thurlow has just been released from Maine State Prison, although he had been working outside prison walls for several months through a pre-release center in Bangor. Kicking criminal habits hasn’ been t easy for Thurlow, currently employed by Central Maine Indian Association o f Orono. “All along, since I’ been getting into ve trouble. I’ been figuring it’ a game. I was ve s in state school; I was in the correctional institute; and I was in Thomaston,” said Thurlow, adding, “And when I was in the service, I was at Leavenworth.” Tom Thurlow Thurlow spent several years at Pleasant Point Passamaquoddy reservation with his mother, Gloria Moore, who died seven years ago. He attended Portland High School, dropped out, and later received his GED in the Army, where he spent two years. Thurlow dubbed Maine State Prison “the criminal school.” He said, “You’ be sur d prised what you learn in there. How to get around alarm systems . . Thurlow said crime quickly becomes an inevitable way of life, “Especially if you meet guys when you’ out that you knew when you were re inside. They say, hey, come with us, we’ ve got a big score.” Tom Thurlow is playing straight now, and he thinks he can keep it up. “I decided I’ d just had enough o f it. And I was ready for a change,” he said. “My brother’ in Cum s berland County jail right now,” he added. Thurlow also has two sisters living in South Portland. Thurlow was sentenced one year ago to 18 months in prison, on aggravated assault charges. He has also faced breaking and entering charges. He would still be in prison were it not for the five-year-old pre-release center, a concept he praised. Now that Thurlow has been discharged, he wants to work with Maine’ inmate popu s lation, providing counseling and other information. Ironically, while at the pre release center, Thurlow was not permitted within prison walls. He can now visit Thomaston, Maine Youth Center at South Portland, and Maine Correctional Center at South Windham. Thurlow wants to “reach” Indian inmates and try to give them something to hope and work for. “It’ not just the Maine tribes; s we’ got the Sioux, Cherokee,” he said. ve As an example o f his work, Thurlow de scribed a 14-year-old boy at Maine Youth Center. Thurlow has found officials “more than willing” to cooperate in attempts to find a home for the boy, where he could get a fresh start on life. Central Maine Indian Association is seeking 515,000 for Thurlow’ project, and s CMIA director Tom Vicaire is all in favor of it. At a recent supper and meeting o f CMIA membership and staff, Vicaire called Thur low a hardworking and valuable employee. Thurlow said he had never heard o f CMIA until he met Richard Tompkins, a Micmac and fellow inmate at Thomaston. Thurlow hopes to help inmates find jobs and stay straight. Most o f all, he wants to travel around the state, “Making sure that if they want to talk to someone, there’ someone to s talk to.” New fishing regulations provide for tribes per week for gill netting and for purse seining. The granting of additional fishing time to the Indians is grounded in numerous court tests, including the landmark decision of The new regulations will be effective U.S. v. Washington, which held that treaties immediately since the salmon season began o f 1854 and 1855 give the Indian tribes the June 24th. opportunity to catch one-half the total U.S. The area affected by the regulations is in catch in the Indians’ accustomed fishing places. This arrangement was upheld in a and around the Strait of Juan de Fuca, which separates the southern end of different case by the U.S. District Court in a Vancouver Island, Canada, from the north test brought in 1977 by non-Indian fisher edge of the Olympic Peninsula in the United men of the Puget Sound area. Last year, the Indians, with an additional States, and in Northern Puget Sound. These s are the waters where Puget Sound meets the day’ fishing each week, caught 18 percent Pacific Ocean, and where major runs of of the U.S. share o f sockeye salmon. It is salmon are expected to seek their native expected that they will catch about the same streams in the Fraser River system for percentage o f the combined U.S. sockeye and pink salmon catch this year. spawning this summer. The terms o f the U.S.-Canada treaty Non-Indian fishermen will be allowed a require an equal split o f the fish between the basic two days per week o f sockeye and pink two countries and adequate escapement to salmon fishing this season under regulations perpetuate the runs in future years. The of the International Pacific Salmon Fisher Departments o f Commerce and the Interior ies Commission (IPSFC). Following the will perform a continuing monitoring service pattern set over the last two years, the State to carry out needed adjustments in the Department approved the regulations on fishery throughout the season in response to May 30, except as to U.S. Indians fishing information provided by the IPSFC to be under the regulations o f the Interior sure terms o f the Canadian Treaty are met. Department. Canadian Indian subsistence Fishermen are kept advised o f these changes fishing is not regulated by the IPSFC, by hot-line telephone service. although it also occurs in waters coming The Indians affected by the regulations under the joint U.S.-Canadian treaty which are the Makah Tribe, the Lower Elwha and established the IPSFC. Port Gamble Bands o f the Clallam Tribe, Between July 15 and September 22 in Suquamish Tribe, Lummi Tribe, Noosack designated areas the regulations allow the Tribe, Swinomish Indian Tribal Community treaty Indians about two additional nights and Tulalip Tribe. WASHINGTON— Extra sockeye salmon fishing time under long-standing treaty rights will be provided members o f eight Washington State Indian tribes. Dan Mitchell employs traditional ash splitter In making work baskets. The triangular device through which ash is pulled and separated belonged to Teddy Bear Mitchell, a relative. Erlichman says tribes need spokesman SPOKANE, Wash. — John Erlichman, former White House staff member to dis graced President Nixon, told Indian leaders here that tribes who do not assert their water rights may lose them. “Obviously tribes can’ outnumber the t opposition. To gain political clout you’ got ve to out think them,” Erlichman told United Indian Planners, at their August conven tion. He urged Indians to have a single spokesman similar to the late Martin Luther King Jr., who spoke for blacks in the U.S. “When he spoke the White House listened,” Erlichman said. Erlichman noted that tax dollars are “getting tight,” and minority programs may lose funding; also, energy resources located on reservations are being eyed by a needy nation. Commenting on a seige o f Bureau of Indian Affairs headquarters in 1972, Erlich man said that Nixon at the time was con sidering revamping the Washington, D.C. offices, but gave up the idea after Indians occupied them as a protest. Erlichman warned against “political duress” or violence, saying Indians will have to be politicians, “ as odious as that sounds.” Aroostook Notes By Brenda Polchies Area Correspondent CARIBOU — A successful Community Garden which consisted o f tomatoes, tur nips, onions, and green and yellow beans has been harvested. Ten acres o f privately owned property was rented locally in Caribou on the Van Buren Road but five acres was actually planted and harvested with the help o f workers from the Migrant and Seasonal Farmworkers program. Be cause 150 lbs. o f onion sets had to be planted by hand, extensive volunteer help was recruited. Those involved in planting and harvesting the garden were Elizabeth Zemicke, Peter McDonald and family, Marylou Caparotta and family, the Connelly family, Helen Ciganik, and Nancy Bither. Vegetables were divided equally and dis tributed to Indian families throughout j Aroostook County. Plans are being made to plant a larger garden for next year. HOULTON — A late afternoon going away party was held recently here at the Association o f Aroostook Indians office in Corrections A story in September’ Wabanaki Alli s ance about Kristin Johnson, a Penobscot girl caught up in racial tensions in Alabama, incorrectly identified Indian Island resident, Ruth Davis, as Kristin’ aunt. Mrs. Davis is s her grandmother. A report in last month’ Wabanaki Alli s ance about Indian Olympics at University of Maine at Orono should have credited Indian Island recreation committee with organizing the event, according to Michael Ranco, committee member. Ranco said four Island youths received outstanding athletic awards: Debbie Clavette, Chris Ranco, Joe Knapp and Sherri Mitchell. Houlton to honor Fred Moore o f Pleasant Point. Moore recently completed a summer long assignment at the AAI through a work release program from the Aroostook County Half-way House in Houlton. Co-workers, staff workers, and friends were in attend ance at the gathering and presented gifts and good wishes to Moore. Cake and re freshments were served. He plans to do some travelling in the States but mail can reach him at Pleasant Point, Perry, Maine 04667. Do you have a drinking problem? Wabanaki Corporation offers an alco holism program for Indian people who need help because o f problems with alcohol. If you have such a problem- and need help, or know o f someone in need, please contact the Alcoholism Counselor in your community or area. Indian Island — Alcoholism Counselors — Clarence Francis — Rosalie Murphy — 207-866-5577. Indian Township — Alcoholism Coun selors — James Mitchell — Bernard Stevens — 207-796-2321. Association o f Aroostook Indians — Alcoholism Counselors — Pious Perley — Harriet Perley — 207-762-3571. Pleasant Point — Alcoholism Counse lors — Grace Roderick — Angelina Robichaud — 207-853-2537. Central Maine Indian Association — Alcoholism Counselor — Alfred Dana — 207-269-2653 or 207-866-5577. �Wabanaki Alliance October 1979 Page 5 The making of an ash basket INDIAN ISLAND — “It’ something to s do. It’ an ambition. You got to do some s thing; keep moving around, know what I mean?” That’ how Dan Mitchell, 69, describes s his Penobscot basketry. It is a skill that was passed down generation to generation, but in Dan’s case, it was his son, George (Murray Mitchell, who got him interested in reviving his skill. Dan lives alone in a small, almost bare but tidy house. He has a radio and televi sion, but he said they just don’ satisfy him t the way weaving a basket does. Dan learned basketry from his father, Joseph Daylight Mitchell. He in turn taught George, at age 10 or so, to make baskets from split ash. A few weeks ago, father and son decided to team up and make some baskets, and thereby some cash. (George Mitchell is currently seeking full time employment.) They decided to make ‘‘ shopper baskets,” a convenient and simple rectangular basket with a carrying handle. One log o f ash will make a dozen or more baskets, but finding ash is difficult, despite an old custom that Indians may take the trees where they find them. After a search, George found a man willing to sell an ash log, and when Dan saw it, he said, “It’ s going to make some beautiful baskets, nice and white.” Despite Dan’ fine craftsmanship, he calls s his baskets “All coarse work. Women folks take care o f the fancy stuff.” Dan remembers living in the old Daylight homestead, next door, which burned. “ It was three or four days before Christmas, when that thing burned down. It was a short circuit or something. This was just a shack,” he said o f his house. “It wasn’ much o f a t place to live, but we had to live here. “You see, my family used to make these baskets and swap them for food. There wasn’ much money then, when I was 10 or t 12. My father would hunt (deer, moose) in the fall. My mother had a method o f putting it up in jars, and it would come out just as fresh...” Dan remebered making egg baskets that held a half bushel. Those baskets sold for 20 cents each. “ I’ been through it I know,” ve said Dan o f lean times in the past. “I worked all over the state o f Maine. I worked in the woods quite a bit. We made $10, $12, $16 a week,” he said. Dan was content to work in silence, but he exclaimed, “Yeah, that’ good,” as he s peeled back strips o f ash, using a splitter that belonged to Teddy Bear Mitchell, a relative. Trapping along Birch stream is another memory for Dan, who recalls setting 140 traps to get muskrat, mink and otter. “That’ how the Indians lived,” he told the s reporter. Looking out a window, he said, “This used to be all garden when my father was living. He cleared an acre o f land.” Dan uses brown ash for baskets. The heart of the tree is dark, and used for standards (uprights). The outer layers are for other standards, and “weavers.” Dan isn’ up to pounding the logs, so George t does that chore. But Dan isn’ fading, and t it’ hard to find a flaw in any o f his baskets. s A fellow Penobscot said with a grin, “There’ no nails in Dan’s baskets.” There s is nothing but ash. Dan has a son, Francis, who works at Diamond International and lives next door. Another son, David, works in Quincy, Mass., as a computer operator. His three daughters are Andrea, who works for Central Maine Indian Association, Barbara ' o f Saco, and Clara o f New Mexico. He likes visits from grandchildren. Dan Mitchell remembered his first bas ket, made when he was “ about 10 or 12. And it wasn’ a very good one. My father t said, you can unravel it and make a better one.” Father and son operation: George Mitchell and father Dan, at w o * in Dan’s small Indian Island house. George Mitchell, son of Dan Mitchell, gets a good swing with maul to pound red ash log in preparation for basket-making. �Page 6 Wabanaki Alliance Octobei School board member foresees Indian high school PLEASANT POINT — “I just want a Nicholas, who has been a school board good school, that turns out people, not member 12 years, and has visited Indian robots,” said Passamaquoddy school board schools in New Mexico and South Dakota. chairman John Nicholas. He said if an Indian high school is built, it Nicholas envisions an Indian high school, would probably be best to locate it at Indian to take care of reservation education beyond Township, where more land is available. the junior high level. High school age pupils Pleasant Point students could be bused to from Pleasant Point attend school in East- school, he suggested. port, or are away at boarding schools. Asked about his views on education, Nicholas said high school pupils at ,Nicholas said, “I hate to see things shoved Pleasant Point and at Indian Township have down the kids’ throats. Let them decide for often received inferior educations, without themselves; if they’ interested and want to re benefit of counseling or an understanding of find out who they are.” special problems o f Indians. Asked if the A father of ten children, Nicholas, 53, high school he wants would be for Indians graduated from Shead Memorial High only, Nicholas said that no, it would be open School in Eastport, in 1944. He served in the to all ethnic groups. Army’ occupation forces in Italy, following s “It’ been my dream for 25 years,” said World War II. He has four grandchildren. s Township school board members elected INDIAN TOWNSHIP - Three new schoolboard members were elected late last month in a race which included four people running and two write-in candidates. Elected were Sonja Dorn, Sam Dana, and Simon Sockabasin, a write-in candidate. Also running were Francis Tomah, Joseph Sockabasin, and write-in candidate, Richard Dana. The new members will be joining Albert Dana and John Stevens on the board, and will be replacing George Stevens, whose term expired, and Carl Nicholas, who re signed. Sockabasin, who just completed a term, will be resuming his old position, due to his write-in victory. Dorn, receiving the most votes, will serve a three year term. The other two candidates tied with 49 votes each. Since ranking in the election determines number o f years to be served, an agreement was reached in which Dana will serve the two year stint and Sockabasin, the one. The newly constituted board held its first meeting in early October and elected Albert Dana, chairman. Sockabasin was named vice chairman. S en a te cuts BIA b u d g et WASHINGTON — The Senate Appro priations Subcommittee cut the 1980 BIA appropriation figures some $53 million compared with the $996 million passed by the House. The $943 million approved by the Senate subcommittee is $31 million less than the $974 million in the President’ budget and s $114 million less than the $1,057 total appropriation for 1979. The Subcommittee also moved to force closure o f three off-reservation boarding schools: it ordered mid-year closure of Chilocco and Seneca Indian schools in Oklahoma and the Albuquerque Indian School programs in Albuquerque. The AIS operations are to be transferred to Santa Fe to the campus o f the Institute o f American Indian Arts. The Subcommittee’ reductions from the s House-passed figures include a $31 million reduction in construction and a $25 million reduction in the operation o f Indian programs, mostly in education and trust activities. The Subcommittee included $6 million for implementation o f the new tribally-controlled Indian Community College Act. This was an increase o f $2 million over the House. T , / , * ~ V "* * a “u Hucsuon aooni now ruth grader Adeline Levesque of ;n;n^ Ihp P P V«lin mlinnl .t„fT P f f her teaCfaer’Deborah Mortland, a native of Unity who this fall Iflinpfl I joined the P C P Q n school staff. reservation Act supports tribal colleges WASHINGTON — Regulations imple menting the provisions o f Tribally Con trolled Community College Assistance Act are being published in the Federal Register, U.S. Interior Department official Rick Lavis said. The regulations prescribe procedures for providing financial and technical assistance to Indian community colleges and, in a separate part, to the Navajo Community College. The regulations state that it is the policy o f the Department o f the Interior “to support and encourage the establishment, operation and improvement o f tribally con trolled community colleges to ensure con tinued and expanded educational oppor tunities for Indian students, and to assist the Indian tribes in implementing social and economic development efforts leading to the fulfillment o f tribal goals and objectives.” Area director appointed WASHINGTON — Burton Rider, a Gros Ventre-Cree, has been named assistant area director for the Bureau o f Indian Affairs’ Billings, Montana office. Rider, 49, has been Superintendent o f the Fort Peck Agency at Poplar, Montana. His appointment in the area office will be effec tive October 21. He succeeds Maurice W. Babby who has accepted a job in the office o f the commissioner in Washington, D.C. An Army veteran, Rider began work with BIA in 1954 and has held jobs in various agency and area offices. Forest service didn't ask Indians to attend hearing PASSAMAQUODDY language teacher, Marine Tomah, goes over some of her day’ s lessons at Indian Township school. The Indian bi lingual program has been seeking a new director, along with renewed funding for instruction at two reservation schools. BROOMALL, Pa. — Maine Indians were inadvertently left out o f a U.S. Forest Service meeting on spruce budworm spray ing in Maine, according to USFS officials here. A so-called “scoping session” was held in Augusta Sept. 11, to determine the role of the federal government in Maine’ 1980 s spruce budworm control program, but no Indians were reported present at the meeting. The absence of Indians was an "administrative oversight,” according to Kenneth Knauer, U.S. Forest Service official. Indians in Maine were contacted later, and their opinions solicited. Bob Wolfe, staff entymoiogist with the forest service, said “We conducted a scoping session to get input . . . we endeavored by newspaper articles and letters” to get participation. Wolfe said the USFS, a branch o f the U.S. Department of Agricul ture, later contacted the state Indian Affairs office, the U.S. Bureau o f Indian Affairs (BIA), and officials o f the Passamaquoddy and Penobscot tribes. Federal regulations state that at public meetings such as the Augusta session, the USFS shall “invite participation o f any affected Indian tribes.” Wolfe said he had reassured Maine Indians — in response to an inquiry — that offshore islands will not be sprayed in the budworm control efforts. “We are making every attempt to get input from Indians, and we send them our draft environmental state ments,” Wolfe said. John Chansler, a USFS assistant area director for the northeast, said he is “seriously considering” another public meeting, probably in the Bangor area, to hear additional information on future budworm spraying and its effects. “ I guess there are people who feel we have not in fact captured all o f the issues,” he said, specifically mentioning people from “downeast” Maine. Chansler said a meeting would likely be held before 1980. Indian participation will be invited, he said. �Wabanaki Alliance October 1979 Page 7 Penobscot revives service station INDIAN ISLAND — The building has stood empty a couple of years, testimony to a failed tribal project, and beginning to show signs o f vandalism. But the former Amoco gas station on the reservation has been salvaged by John Love, 24, a Penobscot. Love’ Auto Repair, a full s service business, will open soon, with Love s wife, Vicki, as bookkeeper. This month, the Penobscot tribal council voted SI,000 to help Love with a Small Business Adminis tration (SBA) loan, and in a surprise move, assigned Love title to the property at the foot o f Oak Hill, near the lagoon. The gas station was first constructed by PIE (Penobscot Indian Enterprises), and included a home heating oil business. Man agement problems led to the closing o f the station, open only one summer. Now, after a year o f negotiating. Love can obtain a $34,500 loan, using the council’ $1,000, s plus $1,000 o f his own money, and $2,000 from Commissioner Charles Rhynard o f the state Department of Indian Affairs. Love, a graduate o f Old Town High School, expects to be open for business sometime next month. He has gained ex perience as a mechanic working at Thorn ton’ Amoco, Old Town, and when PIE s operated the Island station, drove the oil truck. The truck is parked at the station, and Love said the engine has seized up. Love hopes to eventually revive the heating oil business. He has repaired plumbing at the station, and already owns tools. One thing he will have to do before opening day is change the price on gas pumps. A gallon o f regular is listed at 52 cents, the price two years ago. N ew ell a sk s h igh er anti-pollution rating fo r reservation PLEASANT POINT — Tribal Gov. Robert L. Newell has asked the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency to up grade the Passamaquoddy reservation’s air quality rating from class II to class I. The change in classification is being sought under the federal Clean Air Act of 1978, and if approved will strictly limit the level o f air pollution permissible at the reser vation. According to a story in Quoddy Tides, the higher rating will protect the tribe’ aquaculture projects at Halfmoon s Cove, and will generally guarantee a cleaner environment for Passamaquoddies. Also, the tribe has publicly stated its opposition to a proposed oil refinery at nearby Eastport. The Pittston Company, which seeks to build the refinery, must obtain EPA Clean Air Act approval before construction could begin. Newell recently sent an explanatory letter to Eastport city council, with the assurance that a class I designation ‘‘ will have no significant effect on present or planned activities in either our reservation area or your city/town limits.” The letter points out that nearby Moosehorn and Campobello parks have class I ratings. “ We seek this classification to support proposals to fund and implement only such local resource-based activities as will main tain and/or improve our environment, produce work for our labor force based on renewable resources, supplement the socio economic life style we all want for our future, and guarantee the careful, consid erate use of those natural resources we now enjoy, and to protect the health and economy o f our own and future genera tions,” the letter stated. Newell indicated he would like support of the request to EPA from neighboring com munities. The city council tabled a reply to Newell’ s letter until its Nov. 5 meeting, with the intent o f obtaining more information. Indian travel agents meet LAKEWOOD, Colo. — The American Indian Travel Commission (AITC), a non profit national organization established to promote travel to American Indian/Alaska Native owned and/or operated tourism enterprises and to assist tribal tourism related projects, adopted a resolution at their Sept. 14, board o f directors meeting urging Indian interests be represented on the newly established travel and tourism industry advisory council to the Senate committee on energy and natural resources. Copies o f the resolution were addressed to the chairman o f the committee on energy and natural resources, Henry M. Jackson, members o f the travel and tourism industry advisory council, and to members o f the merchant marine and tourism subcom mittee who nominated council members. I Micmac visitors from Big Cove, Nova Scotia, Henry Levi, Franklin Levi, G eorge Wayne Solomon, and Allen Levi. Allen w rote the commentary on the right. John Love prepares to open his service station at Indian Island. Police cadet program helps youths INDIAN TOWNSHIP — Public Safety Director Warren Mitchell has started a police cadet program designed to train youngsters in reservation police work. Mitchell said the program also helps to guide its members past some o f the social problems found on the reservation. Carl Nicholas, Jr. and Patrick Sabattus are currently enrolled in the program. Mitchell said he hopes to add two or three more youngsters. The cadets work with the reservation police, riding in the cruisers. Although they are strictly observers and carry no arms, Mitchell said they occasionally put in calls for assistance for the officers with whom they are riding. Mitchell said he hopes to start-a fire cadet program, as well. Halt on herbicide spraying sought NANAIMO, British Columbia — Possible contamination of Indians’ drinking water has prompted a delay in spraying o f herbi cides along Canadian Pacific railway land on Vancouver Island. Herbicides (listed as Tebuthiron, Bromacil, 2, 4-D; and 2, 4, 5-T ) should not be used until environmental impact is assessed, according to Wayne Edwards, spokesman for United Native Nations. ‘There is no ‘ guarantee that the herbicides will not reach water bodies and native Indian land through natural drainage,” he told Indian News, a Canadian government publication. The railroad has agreed to postpone spraying along its right-of-way between Vic toria and Courtenay until hearings on the matter are completed. The deh u m an ization p rogra m Commentary By Allen Levi It is extremely detrimental for the Native North American to continually pursue his fight for human rights, so consistently un prevailing against those destructive forces of the white world in an exceedingly disil lusioned manner. I do not agree with people when they say to me the Indian is nothing but a drunk, and a welfare bum, nor do I agree when I see the tremendous amount o f discrimination en forced on the Indian. I can only agree with people who say that the Indian is in pretty bad shape. The white government realized a long time ago that Indians also had minds and emotions, just as any civilized white persons. But instead o f treating them as part o f the human race, as equals, they deliberately destroyed good relations with our ancestors by their obsession and greed, which resulted in the occupation of Indian land by white settlers. It was in this time the white man began dismantling the beliefs o f the Indian peoples. His main objective was to disillu sion the native perspective of life. His strategy mostly employed: alcohol, religion and government laws, which in no time at all gained control over the Indian. Through this access, the government forced the Natives to learn a system totally different from theirs, a system altogether unfit for human survival. Besides placing the Indian on reserva tions, the government also put him in schools where he was taught about a different God, a God which never seems to touch his people, unlike the creator whom every Indian felt and saw in his mind and through nature. Through these tactics, the great white chief proceeded to brainwash his fellow man replacing old Indian beliefs with his own beliefs, his fantasies! Pure ludicrous indul gences. As time passed by, it became apparent that the white man had succeeded in weakening our minds. However the Indian is still surviving. We have our souls. We have our values as we have our God. We know that someday the indictments of this white man shall be bestowed upon him, and, though we still live under his rule, we must realize the rule of destiny. We must be able to understand this, for it is our only escort through life’ lonely road. s If we do not begin to show more o f our Indian nature, if we do not stop experi menting with our lives according to white man’ beliefs, then our destiny shall remain s in the predicament o f mankind. Editor’ note: Allen Levi is a Mtemac s youth from Big Cove reservation, Nova Scotia. He recently came to Maine to find work and is employed by Young Adult Conservation Corps (YACQ at Indian Island. �Page 8 Wahanaki Alliance October 1979 Dumping fill on Pleasant Point dam, April 1,1936. Tidol power C h ip p ew a to h ea d BIA Cooper's dream PLEASANT POINT — In the 1930’ s, engineer Dexter Cooper had a vision o f a gigantic power project that would con vert the great rise and fall o f downeast tides into electrical power. The idea caught on, and several dams were built in the Cobscook-Passamaquoddy area, under the Roosevelt ad ministration. An entire town, Quoddy Village, was constructed to house work ers and their families. But almost as though it were jinxed, the Quoddy Pro ject has never truly materialized. Over the years, various studies have claimed the project is entirely practical, and recommended. No action was taken. Only recently has a study been more critical o f the tidal power theme, and that study’ conclusions seem ironic in an s age of oil and gas shortages, high prices and dwindling non-renewable resources. Now, despite the negative report o f a study last May by U.S. Corps of Engineers employee Robert C. Leblanc, a small version o f Quoddy may be built. The small tidal power station at Half moon Cove is a project of the Passama- Carlow Island dam, southerly view, Dec. 21,1936. quoddy tribe, under the direction o f Dr. Normand Leberge. Laberge, who has spent more than three years on Halfmoon Cove plans, is waiting release o f $100,000 in federal Department of Energy funds, for a pre liminary engineering study. The money was awarded to the tribe last spring, and Laberge said he cannot understand the delay. The firm of Charles T. Main of Boston has been selected to conduct the preliminary study. Meanwhile, Laberge has almost com pleted a Coastal Energy Impact study, with funds from the State Planning Office. He also had expected to meet with Leblanc, author o f the Corps of Engineers study, but Leblanc did not show up, he said. Cobscook Bay Labs, a division of Suffolk University, have completed an environmental impact study that will help the project, Laberge said. Cost of constructing a projected five megawatt plant could be $13 million, and it would take several years to build, according to Laberge. WASHINGTON — William Hallett, a Red Lake Chippewa, has been appointed commissioner of Indian Affairs, by Presi dent Carter. Interior Secretary Cecil Andrus said in a press release that “filling the Commis sioner’ post with a competent, knowledge s able man like Bill Hallett will be go for both the Indian community and the Department o f the Interior.” Hallett’ nomination was sent to the s Senate Sept. 28. A tentative date o f Nov. 13 has been set for the confirmation hearings. Hallett is the HUD Assistant Regional Administrator, Office o f Indian Programs, in the Denver region. As Commissioner o f Indian Affairs, Hallett would be responsible for directing the programs and day-to-day operations of the Bureau o f Indian Affairs. Hallett was born May 18, 1942 in Red Lake, Minnesota. He graduated in 1960 from the Red Lake Indian High School. After two years at Brigham Young Univer sity, Hallett completed studies for a Bachelor’ degree in business administra s tion at Bemidji State College, Minnesota in 1965. He did post-graduate work in public administration at the University o f New Mexico under the HUD Career Education Program. From 1965 to 1967 Hallet was a personnel technician for the Chicago Police Depart ment. He then became director o f housing and manpower programs on the Red Lake Chippewa Reservation, where he set up and directed the Tribal Home Construction Company. From 1968 to 1970 he was director o f industrial development for the National Congress o f American Indians. In 1970 Hallett served as a consultant to the National Council o f Indian Opportunity and the President’ National Advisory s Council on Minority Business Enterprise. Hallett went to the Denver HUD office in 1970 as a special assistant to the regional administrator for Indian affairs. He was named regional administrator in 1975. Indians seen as new energy "arabs” ALBUQUERQUE — Sam Brown, direc tor o f the Federal agency ACTION, told Indians at the National Congress o f Ameri can Indians (NCAI) convention in Albu querque “Native Americans might replace Arabs as the people to blame for the energy crisis and inflation.” Brown said the focus o f public anger over the energy crisis could shift from OPEC to the American Indians as they begin to benefit from huge energy resources on their tribal lands. He added, “The irony o f all this is that you will be simply doing what many major corporations have done for years.” Brown said that the Indians would be affected by the country’ political mood s shifting from social justice to fiscal pru dence as the measure o f good government.” Noting that Native Americans own an estimated 20 percnt of America’ energy s resources, Brown said, “You will be con tending with a society which more than ever wants what you have.” Brown concluded that the Indians needed to become more active in poltics to protect their interests. He urged unity and coor dinated action to give them an impact out weighing their numbers. AMERICAN INDIAN JOBS/SKILLS BANK The Administration for Native Americans (HEW) and the Division of Indian and Native American Programs (Dept, of Labor) are sponsoring the development of a matching system which will assist qualified Indian applicants in obtaining jo b s in the Federal government at the GS-9 level and above. If you w ould like more information about this service and feel you are qualified for placement in this GS range, please contact: Pleasant Point dam, looking north along Cobscook Bay, Jane 9, 1936. Reservation homes, church and school are visible. INDIAN JOBS/SKILLS BANK ACKCO, In co rp o ra te d 1200 Pearl Boulder, Co. 80302 From Alaska, Hawaii and Colorado call collect: 1-303-444-3916 From other states call toll free: 1-800-525-2859 �Wabanaki Alliance October 1979 Page 9 Andrus urges tribes to develop natural energy resources WASHINGTON — U.S. Interior Depart ment Secretary Cecil Andrus said the national energy crisis challenges tribes to break their dependence on the federal government. “For too long, too many Indian people have been — through no fault o f their own — too dependent upon the Federal govern ment,” Andrus said in a speech to National Congress of American Indians in Albuquer que, N.M. “The energy crisis offers an opportunity for many tribes to break that cycle o f dependence which has plagued your people.” The Secretary praised the Indians for their efforts to accelerate energy develop ment on reservations and to become partners in energy-producing projects. In dian reservations contain coal and uranium, among other things. “You are seeking independence — the type o f independence that comes with employment opportunities on the tribal lands, from adequate housing, from im proved health,” Andrus said. “By developing your resources wisely, you can attain the independence American Indians seek while helping all Americans attain the national energy independence goal.” Andrus said President Carter’s program, including the windfall profits tax, energy security corporation, and the energy mobili zation board, are important to the tribes. He said that to be effective, the national program would have to include measures to help Indians develop vast energy resources on Indian lands. “This is not only equitable, it is essential to increased energy supply,” Andrus said. The Secretary reviewed efforts by Interior Department to help tribes make informed decisions on energy development and man age their natural resources. “Decisions on the development o f energy resources on tribal lands will be made in the final instance by tribal leaders,” Andrus said, responding to concern expressed by Indian leaders that a proposed energy mobilization board would override estab lished rights o f tribes to control their own natural resources. Noted alcoholism counselor to speak PORTLAND — The Reverend Joseph Martin, nationally known alcoholism work er will speak Friday evening, October 26, at 7:45 in the gymnasium o f University of Southern Maine, 96 Falmouth St. In addition to lecturing throughout the country, Father Martin has narrated several films on alcoholism. He is probably best known for his work on the film Chalk Talk. Anyone wishing more information on the lecture is invited to contact George Paul of Central Maine Indian Association in Port land, tel.: 1-775-1872. Holmes enters innocent plea (Continued from page 1 ) Alabama fugitive from justice charges . against Holmes have been dropped. The charges o f second degree burglary involved $6 taken from a trailer, he said. Asked to comment on Holmes at first being presented in news reports as an Indian, Silver said he “honestly” did not know if Holmes had Indian blood or not. He said he doubted Holmes knew the answer, either. Silver said a reported wedding engage ment between Holmes and Eloise Francis, a Penobscot and witness in the case, may be CHD awards $6 million in grants WASHINGTON — More than six million dollars in grants and loans have been awarded to self-help projects by the national Campaign for Human Development (CHD), Father Marvin A. Mottet, CHD executive director, said. Grants and loans totaling $6,317,700 have been approved for 125 projects which include a community organizing and lead ership training program in the South Bronx; farmworkers’ housing cooperatives in Cali fornia; a national land reform advocacy pro gram based in Washington, D.C.; an out reach program for sugar cane workers in Louisiana and a utility rate reform project in Wisconsin. This most recent series o f grants and loans brings the total amount allocated from the national CHD in its 10-year existence to more than $50 million. An additional $20 million has been distributed at the diocesan level, bringing the overall CHD total to $70 million. The Campaign for Human Development was established by the American Catholic bishops in 1969 as the church’ domestic s anti-poverty justice education program. According to Fr. Mottet, as the Campaign marks its 10th anniversary and looksforward to the next decade, CHD recommits itself to working for justice and to helping change policies, institutions and conditions which perpetuate poverty and injustice. Wabanaki Alliance is supported in part by a CHD grant. I “off.” Holmes worked in construction at Indian Island for three months, Silver told the magistrate in court. Silver said he took the case because it interested him from a legal perspective. He acknowledged that defending Holmes does not increase his popularity with the Indian community. Silver has represented Wab anaki Corporation, an Indian alcoholism agency in Orono, on several occasions. Asked his opinion o f the state supreme court ruling backing federal jurisdiction. Silver said he fully supports it, although he was “amazed” at the decision. Can Maine make the transition to federal jurisdiction on Indian reservations for major crimes, with Indian jurisdiction for minor ones? “We’ certainly a capable group up re here; I don’ see why we can’ do it. Initially t t there’s going to be-a problem changing over, but I don’ see where it can’ be accom t t plished,” Silver said. Quaker group sets workshop FAMILY — Donald Stanley believes hard work teaches good living habits to his sons, Scooby, left, six, and John 11. The trio was doing yardwork at the Stanley homestead at Pleasant Point. Not shown is April Skawaban, six months old. Parent wants Indian teachers PLEASANT POINT — Donald Stanley, father o f three children, believes reserva tion schools should have more Indian teachers, and that pupils have a “right” to their language and culture. “ I’ like to see more Indian teachers in d there,” said Stanley, gesturing toward Beatrice Rafferty elementary school at this Passamaqouddy reservation. “An Indian teacher can relate to an Indian child better than a non-Indian teacher.” On Passamaquoddy language, Stanley said, “It’s difficult to teach the language because o f mixed marriages. There’ about s 45 mixed marriages here.” Stanely said In dians who marry non-Indians should not be permitted to live on the reservation. “At least if you marry another Indian you’ not re diluting Indian blood,” he said. Stanley is separated from his wife, who lives in Law rence, Mass. Stanley believes in “The children’ right s to learn the language and the culture.” He said, “The people here are going the right way . . . my boy Scooby has an Indian teacher.” Stanley remembers attending school in the old building, now vacant, where “The only language I had was Indian; and I could speak pig English.” He remembers, “I got caught speaking my tongue and got hit by a pointer — knocked me clear across the room. That turned me off to religion.” Stanley, 35, worked his way through high school. He later handled steel beams, and lived 12 years in Massachusetts. He con siders himself a traditional Indian, wear ing his hair long, and wearing a “Custer had it coming” patch on his jacket. Stanley said he was disappointed in the progress on a nation house for Passama quoddy traditionalists. “I tried to keep the men together. I started the project. I even designed the nation house,” he said, complaining that other members o f the tribe have discouraged participation by their actions. The logs for the nation house are piled in a field in an area tribal administration has considered for a ski slope. There are no signs o f recent activity. Meanwhile, Stanley has built a new fence around his homestead so that none o f it will be used for roads or parking area for a planned health center. HOULTON — Learning and teaching about Maine Indians will be the theme o f a conference slated Oct. 27, from 9-5, at Association o f Aroostook Indians. The workshop is sponsored by an Indian subcommittee o f American Friends Service Committee, a Quaker group. The associa tion headquarters are located in the fortner Bowdoin Street School, Houlton. A fee will be charged participants. For further infor mation contact Mary Griffith, 22 Riverview • Road, Brunswick. SUBSCRIBE T O WABANAKI ALLIANCE News o f Maine Indian Country FRUITS OF THEIR LABOR — Actually they’ radishes, being shown off by Janice re McDougall [left] and Cheryl Libby, Youth Conservation Corps workers in the community garden at Indian Island. �Wabanaki Alliance October 1979 A look at Indian religious rights in prison By David Stotter WASHINGTON, D.C.— A pioneer Qua ker, William Penn, believed prison to be a sanctuary where man could cogitate about his salvation, become reacquainted with God, and do penance. But is an inmate entitled to cogitate over a ’ special kosher menu? Can he become reacquainted with God while high on peyote? Can an American Indian prisoner build his own "sweatlodge" to do penance? Two hundred years after Penn, the nation's courts and prison experts are joining in an escalating debate over whether incarcerated men and women should be allowed to observe the most basic tenets— and some provocative new ones— o f their religious faith. Because o f discrimination complaints lodged by Muslims, Jews, American Indians and others, the U.S. Commission on Civil Rights has, for the first time in its 21-year history, put a national focus on tb matter. As a cautious first step, the Feder; fact-finding body convened a consultation o national experts in Washington, D.C., this spring. While examining the impact and implica-' lions of religious discrimination nationall; the conferees also debated the issue: to what degree is the free-exercise-of-religion clause of the First Amendment subordinate the the interests of maintaining prison security, enforcing inmate discipline and avoiding administrative inconvenience and expense. Larry Taylor, warden at the Federal Correctional Institution in Lompoc, Califor nia. told the commissioners that in a facility where 4,800 meals a day are served to prisoners, "special dietary arrangements present difficult administrative, budgetary and time problems.” But recent court decisions have required prison oficials to accomodate the dietary needs o f Black Muslims and Orthodox Jews whose religion forbids them to eat pork. Mark Stern, an attorney who has success fully represented prisoners seeking special diets, said inmates sometimes resent it when other prisoners get “favored” treatment. A priosner can “get stabbed in the back over a Kosher TV dinner,” he said. Warden Taylor also commented, “ What ever we do for one religious group, we must be willing to do for all religious groups.” Other prison officials complained that they’ now receiving some spurious dietary re requests. Alvin Bronstein, Director o f the National Prison Project o f the American Civil Liberties Union, found a “subtler, yet more pervasive problem than the free o e rris clause:” the First Amendment prohibition forbidding the government from granting preferential treatment to a religion. Bronstein cited the practice o f recording attendance at religious functions on an inmate’ prison record. "What troubles s me." he said, “is if these notations are in the files, it is highly conceivable that parole decisions may be made based upon a prisoner’s nonattendance at religious activi ties.” “ It is equally unfair not to note an inmate’s religious activities for paro’e purposes,” Gair Cripe, General Counsel for the Bureau o f Prisons, said, since this provides "the complete picture o f what an inmate is doing.” Another official added that such records are necessary to calculate prison budgets. When Indian inmates o f the Native American Church wanted a sweatlodge at Lompoc, Warden Taylor’ immediate reac s tion was "No, because we didn’ know t anything about sweatlodges.” A sweatlodge is a small wooden hut covered with blankets or a tarp which provides an effect similar to a sauna. Virtually all tribes in this country use it as part o f a purification ceremony. Faced with a court suit, Taylor’ staff did s some research and relented to the inmates’ demands. "W e had to be concerned about what kind o f precedent we set,” said Taylor. “We don’ build synagogues for Jews or mosques t for the Muslims in our population.” The Native American Church believes peyote, a hallucinogenic cactus plant, is both a sacramental object, similar to the bread and wine in certain Christian churches, and is itself an object of worship much like the Holy Ghost. It's not permitted in prison, but Waiter Echo-Hawk, staff attorney for the Native American Rights Fund (NARF), said Native American Church members are discriminat ed against because they are prohibited from using peyote while on parole, even though Federal law permits its use for bona fide religious purposes outside o f prison. William Collins, an American Correction al Association official, said it is not always easy to define what is a legitimate religion. He cited the Church o f the New Song (CONS), an inmate-created religion which one court characterized as a “non-structured, free-form, do-as-you-please philoso phy. the sole purpose o f which is to cause disruption o f established prison discipline for the sake o f disruption.” When correctional officials attempted to suppress the incipient church, its founder, federal prisoner Harry Theriault, brought a free exercise suit against the Atlanta, Georgia, penitentiary. A District Court held that until CONS demonstrated otherwise, the movement was to be considered a bona fide religion. Shortly after this victory, a sect within the church nearly provided such a demonstrtion by making a formal request to the Federal Bureau o f Prisons for 700 porterhouse steaks and 98 bottles o f Harvey’ Bristol s Cream Sherry to celebrate the sect’ rituals. s While Theriault immediately proclaimed the request "unsanctioned,” officials in other prisons have forced many CONS chapters to go to court to prove their sincerity; so farrthe courts have reached contradictory decisions. Litigation frequently occurs when prison regulations governing personal appearance conflict with the tenets o f an inmate’ s religion. Some religions require adherents to wear long hair and beards, requirements that prison officials said hinder prisoner identification while also providing inmates a way to conceal weapons and contraband. Conferees also discussed the difficulty of scheduling prayer hours so that they do not interfere with prison routine. Warden Taylor told o f a Lompoc inmate who believed in chanting at sunrise. Disturbed by the noise, a fellow inmate assuited the chanter. The multitude o f unresolved issues which were raised prompted the Correctional Association’s Collins to comment that judicial clarification is needed: "What is the test? The courts have yet to clearly decide what scale is to be used in balancing the religious demands of an inmate and the demands of a correctional institution.” Federal Indian school programs merged WASHINGTON— U.S. Interior Assistant Secretary Forrest Gerard announced that an agreement has been reached with Indian Pueblo Council to transfer senior high programs o f the Albuquerque Indian School to the campus o f the Institute o f American Indian Arts in Santa Fe. The IAIA program will be continued at Santa Fe this year, under its own separate administration, for returning second year students only. This will allow the post-sec ondary school’ students to complete their s normal two-year program. No new students will be enrolled. According to tha agreement with the council, programs for approximately 200 students in the 7th, 8th, and 9th grades will remain at the Albuquerque campus this school year. Gerard said that he would establish a review team to analyze the educational programs o f the Institute and its future location. The art institute, established in 1962, had been a high school with a post-secondary art BIA lists job openings SCHOOL DAYS — These kids at Pleasant Point don’ seem too depressed about the start of t a new school year ... or maybe it was just that classes were out for the day. The sign was painted by the members of the junior high. WASHINGTON — The Bureau o f Indian Affairs has been recruiting to fill 45 clerical and professional positions in its Central Office o f Indian Education in Washington, D.C., Director Earl Barlow announced. The openings have been created by a change in BIA’ central education office to s meet current education needs o f Indians and Alaska Natives. There are positions to be filled, Barlow said, in elementary and secondary educa tion, post-secondary education, education of the exceptional child, student support services, planning and program develop ment and administrative support. They include jobs for clerk-typists, clerk-stenos, analysts, education specialists and super visory education specialists. Qualified Indian applicants will be given preference in filling all these positions. program. The high school had been phased out and enrollment at the junior college level had remained low. This spring the school was operating at less than half o f capacity with high costs. The Albuquerque Indian School, started in 1881, was operated by the Bureau o f Indian Affairs as an off-reservation board ing school for Indians from various tribal groups, mostly from the Southwest. Since 1977 the school has been operated by the Indian Pueblo Council under contract with £he bureau and has served a predominantly Pueblo student body. The buildings and facilities on the Albuqeurque campus are quite old and would need to be replaced or renovated if the school were to continue there. BIA buildings assessed NEW YORK— Parsons Brinckerhoff, an architectural and planning firm, has com pleted fieldwork in an inventory survey of facilities operated by the Bureau o f Indian Affairs at the Papago, Salt River, Ford McDowell, Fort Apache, San Carlos, and Colorado River Reservations in Arizona, and the Riverside Reservation in Southern California. The project staff examined over 600 buildings, as well as qtilities, streets, and grounds. The survey, which is part of a nation-wide inventory the BIA is conducting o f its facilities, requires the evaluation of architectural, structural, mechanical, elec trical and sanitary systems, and includes an independent safety analysis and an energy retrofit analysis o f the Theodore Roosevelt School in the historic Fort Apache Reserva tion. The study was conducted on land owned by the Papago and Apache tribes, although no tribal buildings were evaluated. The government facilities included schools, ad ministrative offices, maintenance facilities, and residences of BIA workers. They ranged in age from a 100-year old horse stable to a modem Indian High School at the Riverside Reservation in California. �Wahanaki Alliance October 1979 Page 1 1 c o u> STILL ON THE DRAWING BOARD — This Pleasant Point recreational park is only a dream now, but it may become reality soon. co WOOOOOOOCOSOOOOOOSeOOOSOOOCOMOCCCOSOOCOOOCOOOCCOC' o > o t write Dept.74 VETERANS ADMINISTRATION items to choose. GREY OWL Indian Craft Manufacturing Co. 150-02 Beaver Road, Jamaica, N.Y. ^ 212 526-3660 t= J j Equal Housing OPPORTUNITY BOSTON INDIAN COUNCIL IS SEEKING DIRECTOR FOR COMMUNITY SERVICES Responsibilities: Include developing and managing a social services program at Boston Indian Council, Inc. Qualifications: High school diploma or equivalent and three years experience, or BSW/MSW. The position becomes available Novem ber 1 1979. All interested parties are , invited to send their resumes to Cliff Saunders, executive director, Boston Indian Council, 105 S. Huntington Ave., Jamaica Plain, Mass. 02130. coa - Owned Homes For Sale Throughout The State Minimum Cash Down Payment Financing Available Through V.A. 30 Year Loans — No Closing Costs 9V2% Interest. Anyone Can Buy You Don't Have To Be A Veteran M O R N IN G S T A R A K C CA IR N T E R R IE R S See Your Local Real Estate Broker Or Contact Stud Service VETERANS ADMINISTRATION LOAN GUARANTY DIVISION TOGUS, MAINE 04330 Tel. 207-623-8411 Ext. 433 Phone 412-368-3274 P O R T E R S V IL L E , P A . 16051 r THE LIFE AND TRADTIONS OF THE RED MAN By Joseph Nicolar “ The best account we have o f the Indian E p ic o f Glusgehbeh (Glooscap o f the M icm acs) . . . A grandson ofLt. Gov. John Neptune, Joseph Nicolar {As whites wrote his name) came from a long line o f shamans and inherited the old lo re. . . ” Fannie Hardy Eckstrom Originally published in Bangor, Maine in 1893 this book is now available at bookstores everywhere or from the distributors for the Eastern U.S.; The University Bookstore University o f Maine Orono, Maine 04469 Price is $6.95 Please include 75c for shipping and handling. Maine residents add 5% Sales Tax. LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF FINDING OF NO SIGNIFICANT EFFECT ON THE ENVIRONMENT OCTOBER 8,1979 PENOBSCOT INDIAN NATION COMMUNITY BUILDING INDIAN ISLAND OLD TOWN, MAINE 04468 (207)827-7776 TO: ALL INTERESTED AGENCIES, GROUPS AND PERSONS: The above named Penobscot Indian Nation, Penobscot County, Maine has requested release of Community Development Block Grant Funds from the U.S. De partment of Housing and Urban Development under Title I o f the Housing & Community Develop ment Act o f 1974 (PL 93-383) to be used for the Community De velopment and Housing needs. $61,000. It has been determined that such request for release of funds will not constitute an action sig nificantly affecting the quality of the human environment and has decided not to prepare an En vironmental Impact Statement of the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 (PL-91-190). The reasons for such decision not to prepare such statement are as follows: No significant degradation of the environment is expected. An Environmental Review Record respecting the within project has been made by the Penobscot Indian Nation, Pen obscot County which docu- - ments the environmental review of the project and more fully sets for the reasons why such statement is not required. This Environmental Review Record is on file at the^above_address and is available for public ex amination and copying upon request at the Grants and Con tracts Division, Community Building. Indian Island, Old Town, Maine 04468 between the hours of 8 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. No further environmental re view o f each project is proposed to be conducted prior to the ,request for release o f Federal funds. All interested agencies; groups and persons disagreeing with this decision are invited to submit written comments for considera tion by the Tribal Council o f the Penobscot Indian Nation to the office o f the undersigned. Such written comments should be re ceived at the Community Build ing, Indian Island, Old Town, Maine 04468, on or before Octo ber 17, 1979. All such comments will be considered and the Pen obscot Indian Nation, Penob scot County will not take any administrative action on the with in project prior to the date specified in the preceding sen tence. Wilfred Pehrson Governor Penobscot Indian Nation Community Building Indian Island Old Town, Maine 04468 October 17,1979 �Page 12 Wahanaki Alliance October 1979 news notes Flashback photo Tribal charter rules proposed ' . Boston area Indians join Allagash trip ORONO— Five young men from the WASHINGTON— Regulations for Indian Dorchester area o f Boston, recently par tribes seeking to form tribal constitutions or ticipated in a week-long expedition on charters or make changes, are being the Allagash Wilderness Waterway. proposed by Bureau o f Indian Affairs. The canoe trip, sponsored by Wilderness The purpose o f the new regulations is to Pursuits o f Orono under the leadership of provide uniformity and order in holding Nicholas Dow, is part o f Wabanaki Corpor elections on constitutions and bylaws or ation’s alcoholism and drug abuse preven charters. tion efforts. The trip provides a wilderness A significant change, introduced by the experience and the chance to share feelings proposed regulations, is that petitioning by and learn to cooperate in facing challenges. tribal members will no longer be recognized It is a chance for youngsters to develop as a way to initiate a tribal reorganization. self-confidence and trust in others. The process, under the proposed regula Sammy Sapiel, recreation director for tions can only be initiated by a valid request Boston Indian Council, coordinated the from a tribe’s governing body or a participation o f the Boston youths. They representative committee. were Steve Marshall, 12; Derrick Stevens, The purpose of this change is to require 13; John Quigley, 16; Jeffrey Gunther, 13; tribal members to work through their and Cedric Cromwell, 1 4. government rather than around it. The petitioning process remains valid where tribal constitutions recognize it and where the Indian Reorganization Act provides for it as the means whereby the Secretary o f the A Federal jury in North Platte, Neb., has Interior may be requested to issue a charter awarded $300,000 to an Oglala Sioux o f incorporation. woman who charged the city o f Gordon and one o f its police officers with violating her civil rights and causing her to have a mis carriage. Jo Ann Yellow Bird has accused Gordon Indian tribal businesses are flourishing, police of kicking her in the stomach, threat The U.S. News and World Report, a ening to shoot her, throwing her into a “drunk tank” and denying her medical national magazine, reported recently. A four page story says commercial Indian attention following a bar brawl in Septem ventures in timber, coal, oil, resorts, ber, 1976. Fifteen days later she lost her factories and farming are paying off. The unborn child. Miscarriage award _________ H H *M HOME ON THE FARM — Mary Stevens, well known Indian in Houlton, poses with dog, at left. At right is photo of Rosemary Joseph and several children, at Indian Township. The boy is Newell Tomah. [Photo courtesy of Ramona Stackhouse] Boy scou tin g for Indians u rged Magazine reports tribes prospering full-time staff member assigned. There is NORTH BRUNSWICK, N.J.— A major also an active American Indian Relation effort to spur increased use of the Scouting ships Committee, headed by Brantley Blue, program among American Indian youth was of Washington, D.C. During the past five Indian household median income is now announced here. years this committee has sought outside higher than that for blacks, Puerto Ricans The Boy Scouts o f America in cooperation LOWELL, Mass. — Area Indians here funding for the additional support now- and Mexican Americans, the article said. camped, danced and sang in celebration of with the National Indian.Activities Associa Gains in education were also reported, with announced. s tion has established the American Indian an estimated 40,000 Indians currently the harvest season, at what’ called the Five specific goals are seen, according to historical Pawtucket Indian site. The fair Scouting Outreach Program. Two other attending college. Featured were business Hess and Homer. took place Oct. 13-14. The site is located in groups assisting with the project are the The outreach program will serve to developments at Warm Springs, Minnesota Idaho Inter-Tribal Policy Board and the a state forest. develop a deeper understanding by tribal Chippewa, and Ak-Chin reservations. Indian and Native American Programs leaders of the need for a greater ‘ push’ for offfice o f the U.S. Department o f Labor . Scouting programs for Indian youth. It will According to Pete Homer, Jr., president develop an increased awareness on the part o f the National Indian Activities Associa of volunteer and professional Scouters that tion, the project is designed “to develop the American Indian youth can and will be capacity o f Indian communities to use the benefited by Scouting programs. Scouting program to serve Indian youth. It will develop stronger communication BSA officials estimate that about 1,000 links between local tribal leaders and local native Americans currently are associated Scouting council personnel. It will develop with the Boy Scout program. workable patterns o f operation needed to The project also is designed to develop, support Scouting on Indian reservations and through collaboration between local Indian in urban areas having concentrations of tribal and community groups and local Boy Indians. And it will increase the number of Scout councils, community-based support Indian youth within the Scouting member services to help ensure continuity o f the ship and the number o f tribal chartered program. Scouting units. James A. Hess, veteran professional Kenneth Gould, acting executive director Scouter, will serve as executive director of o f NIAA. and Lonnie Racehorse, director o f the program for 13 months through F O R T H E B H I f f E J F I T O F T H U the Idaho Inter-Tribal Policy Board, have September 1980. Hess, who has been also cooperated in arrangements. director o f BSA’s Community Relationships Hess comes to the program’s leadership Service, will be headquartered in South with a background in Scouting-Indian Brunswick. N.J., and will work with Indian cooperation. He has been secretary to communities in eastern states. Scouting’ American Indian Relationships s Assisting Hess will be two American Committee for the past five years and has Indian associates, still to be named, who will coordinated support o f Indian seminars on be headquartered in the NIAA office in Scouting during this period. An Eagle Scout Oklahoma City. They will work with jfhd veteran o f World War II military selected Indian communities west of the service, Hess is a graduate of Mt. Union Mississippi River. College. He has served in Scout executive Since 1957, the BSA has provided posts in Kentucky, Ohio, Indiana, and A L L A R E R E Q U E S T E D T O W E A R IN D IA N C O S T U M E S . national staff services to Indian communi ties. and for several years there was a Minnesota. Harvest festival held P R - imWLO- tlttt E MG - U- EH ( L E T ’S H A V E A D A N CE.) At the Upper Hall, Mian Island, MONDAY EVENING, FEBRUARY 25th, PENOBSCOT UMIAfl BftflD 2 C A S H P J b t li& J iiw S ONE FOB THE PRETTIEST DOSTOIBED COOPLE, “ “ “ )U0ST FBHTBSTID Pleasant Point planners organize PLEASANT POINT — The Passamaquoddy tribe has organized a planning department here, with a staff o f three persons. In charge is Charles Lewis, an Eastport area native who has been working for the tribe several months. Lewis, after a military career in the U.S. Army, worked for Indian legal services in Calais, and later worked with land claims lawyer Thomas N. Tureen, who represents the Passamaquoddies in their land claim to northern Maine. Lewis said a meeting was planned “to pull all the planners together — then we’ have ll more direction and hopefully coordination. Lewis recently completed a so-called tribal specific health plan for Indian Health Service, the federal agency that funds medical services on the reservation. Hired to work with Lewis were Peter Bailey, a member o f the Passamaquoddy tribe who will work on future housing, and Robert Mendoza, a Creek Indian who will serve as assistant planner. Floor Managers: J. S. SHAY, M M NICHOLA. . . tfosic: INDIAN ISLAND ORCHESTRA, (4 Pieces) Admission, 10 Cents. Dance, Including Admission, 50 Cents. OLD HANDBILL for a dance at Indian Island. Does anyone know the date of this event? The Upper Hall is gone, but the recently built commnnity boilding would be suitable for a revival of these good times. Perm-gur-wul-de-netch. � Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource <em>Wabanaki Alliance</em> (October 1979) Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Indian Resource Center Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1979-10 Contributor An entity responsible for making contributions to the resource Donald Soctomah Julia Brush Language A language of the resource English Type The nature or genre of the resource Document Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource pdf Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context DV-404 Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Passamaquoddy Cultural Museum Rights Information about rights held in and over the resource Steve Cartwright. Used with permission. https://www.dawnlandvoices.org/collections/files/original/8317462f2f8b0b961ff0b0286d7acf7f.pdf 869b7dc72184668822dff097ef722d39 PDF Text Text Wabanakl Alliance Non-profit org. U.S. Postage Paid 2.1* Orono, Maine Permit No. 14 September 1977 Border talks focus on call for Indian rights INDIAN ISLAND — A three-day confer­ ence of U.S. and Canadian Indians here climaxed with passage of several resolutions calling for restoration o f aboriginal rights, increased government services and benefits, and removal o f customs and immigration requirements. Those resolutions will be presented at a 1977 World Council o f Indigenous People, in Sweden, and at the Geneva Peace Conference slated this month. [The full text of the resolutions appears elsewhere in this newspaper.] An estimated 300 eastern Canadian and U.S. Indians attended the three days of workshops, meetings and talks. Indian leaders described the occasion as an un: precedented and historic gathering o f native peoples. Resolutions drew little disagree­ ment and won majority support from con­ ference participants. A majority of persons attending the con­ ference were chiefs or other tribal officials, representing Indians from Rhode Island to Nova Scotia. Some o f them pitched tents beside the Penobscot reservation community building, where meetings took place and meals were served. The tone o f the conference was open and friendly, with a serious attitude toward issues discussed. Evenings included traditional singing, drumming and dancing around a fire. Although the conference was open to the press, only a few reporters were seen at the meetings, working for Indian newspapers. A resolution committee chaired by James Sappier, Passamaquoddy tribal coordinator from Pleasant Point, reviewed at least a dozen different resolutions submitted by persons attending the conference on behalf of causes ranging from crossing the U.S.Canadian border without intimidation to Indian women’rights. s Sappier’ com m ittee extracted five s general resolutions from all o f those submitted, attempting to incorporate many of the ideas and purposes o f the original resolutions. Among final resolutions are three papers that spell out the findings and consensus of three conference workshops. The first, on aboriginal border crossing rights, seeks to abolish customs and immigration requirements imposed on Indians by U.S. and Canadian governments, and asks officials to recognize Indian rights as guaranteed under the Jay Treaty and other agreements. The second broad resolution, dealing with tribal government, land and the border, calls for action allowing reunification of border-divided tribes; self-determination of what constitutes a tribe; fishing, hunting and trapping rights; a review by Indians of any planned c ' nstruction affecting Indian land. The third resolution seeks medical, educational, welfare and housing benefits for Indians, whether they be U.S. Indians in Canada, or Canadian Indians in the U.S. A further resolve asks a proposed interna­ tional joint commission on Indian affairs to explore alternatives and make recommen­ dations. Resolutions will be forwarded to the National Conference o f American Indians (NCAI), a U.S. organization, and the National Indian Brotherhood (NIB), its Canadian counterpart. Tribes represented at the meeting included Micmacs, Mohawks and Maliseets from Maine and Canada, Narragansetts from Rhode Island and Con­ necticut, Penobscots and Passamaquoddies from Maine, plus others in smaller numbers. Few whites were present at the confer­ ence. Two o f them were central figures in organizing the event. Gregory Buesing, co­ ordinator o f an Indian task force for the Federal Regional Council o f Boston, has been credited as largely responsible for the conference, assisted by Edward Bernard, cochairman with Terry Polchies, a Maine Indian, o f the task force. “ The task force’desire was to generate a s forum to gather recommendations and in­ formation from the Indian community,” Buesing said, adding that border crossing problems and problems with government (Continued on back page) Fisheries plant nearly complete PLEASANT POINT — A fish processing plant and pier complex at the seaside Passa­ maquoddy reservation here is scheduled for completion by the end o f September. Despite a few defects in quality control during construction, the project is on schedule and generally satisfactory, accord­ ing to CTayton Geaves, a local housing traveled from his Atlanta home at the request o f the tribes . . . I will make a authority official. request of tribal leaders. He toured Penob­ report,”Gunter said. First discussed four years ago, the fish scot and Passamaquoddy reservations, and Gunter defended his recommendations, plant construction began last June 15, later met with Gov. James B. Longley and calling them “ fair and practical.” But he funded by a Federal Economic Development state Attorney General Joseph E. Brennan. said Indians and the administration are still Administration public works grant of Gunter has recommended an out-of-court far apart in terms o f mutual agreement on several hundred thousand dollars. solution to the Indians’ claim that they were any settlement o f the land claims case. Cleaves described the tribally-owned wrongfully deprived o f 12 million acres in Asked when he thought a settlement project as, “ stepping stone to more a Maine, because treaties were not ratified by might be reached, Gunter said, " I ’ economic sovereignty. Instead o f pounding m Congress, as required under a 1790 Con­ doubtful it will be in the next 30 days . . . on welfare doors, we’ employing people,” re gressional act. Gunter’ proposed offer of Congress is on vacation during the month o f he said. s $25 million plus 100,000 acres has been August.”He said a solution may be worked “ The housing authority will turn the fish rejected publicly by Maine Indians. out in "several more months.” processing plant over to the tribal govern­ However, that offer may not be as “ final” Questioned about the state’firm position ment, and they will hire a plant manager,” s as Gunter has maintained. Gunter also opposing the land claims. Gunter said he Geaves said. Area fishermen will be invited stated his recommendations are “ set in doubted the state would be involved in a to sell their produce to the plant, which is not concrete. settlement unless the solution involved state- expected to employ 15-20 persons. "I can see where these two tribes are dis­ owned lands. Problems with quality control have been appoin ted in my recom m en dations,” Governor Longley has been reported as spotted by “ competent inspector who is a a Gunter said in an interview with Wabanaki favoring a court settled case, rather than a Passamaquoddy Indian,”Cleaves said. The Alliance. He promised to relay the Indian negotiated solution to the land claims case. contractor for the plant building and pier is position to the President. “ came at the I (Continued on back page) Bridge Construction Co. o f Augusta. Indians, Gunter seek compromise ORONO — Maine Indian officials called it a negotiating session, while the President’ s special representative called it a meet%g where he "listened”only, because he was not a mediator on the Indian land claims case. Penobscot Tribal Governor Nicholas Sapiel said after meeting with Gunter, “ s It’ progressing pretty well. Gunter wouldn’be t here if his recommendations were final.” Gunter has repeatedly stated his recom­ mendations are non-negotiable. Indian leaders and retired Judge William B. Gunter of Georgia refused to comment on what they discussed behind closed doors. But Gunter, members o f a Maine Indian negotiating team, and Thomas Tureen, lawyer for the Indians, appeared in good spirits following a two-hour meeting here. Aug. 19 at Indian Resource Center. Gunter, appointed by the President as an advisor on the Maine Indians’ lawsuit. Resolutions will be presented to Canadian and U.S. governments according to Sappier, Central Maine Indian Association Director Michael Ranco, and others who organized the border issues conference. Indian leaders plan to follow up on the resolutions to determine if they are an effective politicial force. Ranco suggested the conference could become an annual event, demonstrating unity and solidarity o f native peoples. A theme o f the meeting was expressed by an Indian who suggested the answer to whether one is a Canadian or U.S. Indian should be, “ m a North American Indian.” I’ �Page 2 Wabanaki Alliance September 1977 editorials Valid claims That Maine Indians deserve a favorable settlement of the land claims case is a position that should be supported by all reasonable, compassionate people, in this state, in Washington, D.C, and else­ where. A reasonable person simply cannot ignore a long and ugly history of injustices done to Indians by others, whether it was trading blankets contaminated with smallpox, or unlawfully grabbing aboriginal lands. There is no way this history can be rewritten to benefit native peoples, but there are things to be done that will improve the current status of Maine Indians. Resolving to return certain lands to the Penobscot and Passamaquoddy Tribes, plus a cash settlement, is one way to improve that status. After decades of mistreatment, Indians are now seeking some justice, using the white man’system. s That the Maine tribes can win court decisions in the non-Indian system is a tribute to democracy and human rights. But if govern­ ment then denies Indian rights to land and damages, the system is a farce. Many people have become unreasonable because they fail to understand the Indian position, the background, the history of swindles and deceit that stripped Indians of their lands. Many people continue to see Indian claims as unreasonable. But Indian leaders have shown good faith, a willingness to compromise, and have remained cordial and fair in their public statements. The same cannot be said for state officials in Augusta. While others have sensationalized Indian land claims, Indians themselves have tried to assure private property owners they will not lose their homes, farms and woodlots. It’ possible a large s corporation would be involved in a land agreement, but no lands would be stolen as they have been from Indians, time and again. It's also possible state-owned lands would be involved in a settlement, but no-one will be barred from visiting Mt. Katahdin. Indians have shown as much concern as anybody for the welfare of the state. They are not seeking a prolonged court battle. Instead, Indians want a swift settlement that will boost rather than harm the Maine economy. Judge William B. Gunter’ recommended settlement of 100,000 s acres plus $25 million is a step in the right direction, but it is a low bid, and Indians were wise to reject it. Whatever course of action is finally negotiated, Indians have our unequivocal support in the land claims case. Non-Indians have misunderstood the case. Some individuals have deliberately encouraged misunderstanding. Finally, misinterpreting the land claims case is part of a larger failure, that of non-Indians misunderstanding Indians themselves. poetry We, The Indians You came across the water. In a very large canoe. You say to us. can we land? We moved over, so you could have room. We fought for our land and our life. Battles were lost and won. They weren't Indian victories. Only massacres when you turn to run. To you we sold “ much land, so” we sign this called paper. You tell us exactly what it means. But it means different, a little later. You are now a great nation. You stretch from East to West. Yet we fought back fiercely Our greatest chiefs are now at rest. We move where you dare not explore. But traders come and kill our Friends. You kill them for trophy or fun And also us. your fellowmen. You stole our lovely wildlife. Many will never roam or fly. You polluted our lakes, and our streams. You stole the blue from the sky. And now you are a country. A proud and noble thing. You rejoice, for your good fortune. The deathsong is all that we can sing. Now all o f our land is gone. And o f us there is few. Now you think that you have won. No. you are wrong, you have lost too. You steal our land without our word, and now some of us rebel. You shoot us with your tiresticks. Then we move, and all is well. Patti Fitzgerald Penobscot, age 12 Bloomington. Ind. POSSIBLE HARM CAN JH£y p c ? " An Indian nation When Maine Gov. lames B. Longley commented recently that he The conference was a historic occasion, the reunion of the Wab­ feared Indians were trying to create a separate nation, he couldn’ anaki Confederacy nations after 137 years. Penobscots, Passamat have been more wrong. quoddies, Micmacs and Maliseets were there. Mohawks and Narragansetts were there. Abenakis and Apaches were there, and the list The answer is. of course, that Maine Indians have always been a goes on. separate nation, although subject to all sorts of outside discrimina­ Indian leaders talked about a new spirit of brotherhood and unity, tion and coercion. Indians today have little to show of their nation, about a new self-image for Indians. For years Indians have been their because other Americans have taken away just about everything but own worst enemies, accepting white paternalism and their own the Indian s cultural identity, and inroads have been made on that, defeatism. too. The conference showed that Indians have found their voice. They want to keep their aboriginal rights, they want to keep their There are seeds of hope, however, and some of these seeds bore traditions and customs. Above all, Indians want to keep their nation fruit at the recent U.S.-Canadian border issues conference held at alive, and they are willing to work together — a sort of United Indian the Penobscot Nation's Indian Island. To see 300 Indian leaders Nations — to do it. gather in one place to discuss their common problems and share There is nothing to fear. Governor, unless you fail to acknowledge their proposals for solutions was inspiring. these people as equals entitled to their rights. �Wabanaki Alliance September 1977 Page 3 letters To our Readers: This space in future issues will be reserved for your letters. We ask that you feel free to write us with your ideas, opinions and criticism. The letters columns are open to any subject matter about which you have strong feelings. Letters from anyone, anywhere, are welcome. We reserve only the customary right to edit or refuse letters in consideration of length, libelous statements or highly un­ suitable language. It's unlikely we would invoke this right except in an extreme, unusual case. Writing a letter to WABANAKI AL­ LIANCE is an immediate, personal way for readers to become constructively involved in the newspaper. Our experience with other publications shows that a lively letters column is not just an asset to a newspaper, but a vital part o f the communications process. Communication is what newspapers are all about, and letters to the editor make communications a two-way street. Letters often stimulate dialogue and clarification. Ultimately, an active letters column results in more vigilant, investigative reporting on the part o f the newspaper. In the same way an author would want reviews o f a new book, we want feedback on WABANAKI ALLIANCE. We want to hear our readers’voices, discussing the topics that concern them. Do you like the newspaper’ format? It’ s s' content? Do yofi agree with editorial policy? Writing us a letter is one o f the most effec­ tive ways we can evaluate our efforts. A letter is your personal input into your news­ paper. You don’need to be a great writer to t send in a letter. Any letter that is sincere is a valuable contribution, and will be considered with the respect it deserves. Letters to the editor should be so marked, and should be mailed or delivered to WABANAKI ALLIANCE, 95 Main St., Orono, Maine 04473. We request that letters be dated and signed by the author. We regret that unsigned letters cannot be published. Please include your home address. Once again, this space belongs to our readers. We guarantee this opportunity for your views to appear in print. Make use o f it. WABANAKI ALLIANCE Washington To the Editor: The U.S. Department o f Agriculture (USDA), through the Soil Conservation Service (SCS) can now provide technical assistance to Indian tribes and tribal members on uses and conservation practices for trust land. This service is the result o f a recent SCS policy revision worked out in conjunction with the Bureau o f Indian Affairs (BI A ). Through approximately 3000 local soil and water conservation districts (SWCD). SCS administers a national program for conserving and developing the nation's soil and water resources. Land users who are cooperators in these districts can receive technical help from SCS conservationists to help determine land use and to plan and apply conservation practices such as dams, grassed waterways, irrigation systems, strip­ cropping and terraces. Since the Reorganization Plan o f 1940. however, SCS has not been able to work on Indian trust land except where reimbursed by BI A. A recent legal opinion by the USDA General Counsel now permits SCS assist­ ance for planning and implementing soil and water conservation m easures to individuals and groups on trust land within a conservation district in the same manner and with the same requirements that assist­ ance is provided to any other land user. In order to participate in this program, Indian trust lands must be within a soil and water conservation district organized under State laws and tribes or tribal members must request the services o f the local conservationist. Complete details on how to participate in an existing SWCD or form a new one can be obtained from the SCS State Conservationist, a Federal official whose name and address appear on the enclosed list. In addition, the State Conservationist can provide inform ation on SCS career opportunities. Interested Indian students majoring in soil conservation, engineering, agronomy, biology, forestry, agricultural economics and other agricultural sciences may be qualified for part-time student trainee positions leading to full-time profes­ sional employment. ON THE ISLAND — Mrs. Celina Newell chats with Sister Helen McKeough, principal of the island school, at Indian Island. Mrs. Newell, a Mohawk Indian, has moved to the island with her husband, a Penobscot, from a Florida home. They are residing with their daughter and son-in-law, Diane and Howard Newell, at 2 Center St. Stuart Jamieson, Supervisor Indian Desk Vol. 1, No. 2 September 1977 Published monthly by the Division of Indian Services [DIS] at the Indian Resource Center, 95 Main St., Orono, Me. 04473. Steven Cartwright,Editor DIS Board of Directors Jean Chavaree [chairman] John Bailey, CAP director Albert Dana Timothy Love, CAP director Janet Neptune Erlene Paul, Central Maine Indian Assn. Roy Paul, Assn, of Aroostook Indians Maynard Polchies, president, Aroostook Indians Michael Ranco, Centra] Maine Indian Assn. Indian Island Pleasant Point Indian Township Indian Island Indian Township Orono Houlton Houlton Orono DIS is an agency of Diocesan Human Relations Services, Inc. of Maine. Subscriptions to this newspaper are available by writing to Wabanaki Alliance, 95 Main St., Orono, Me. 04473. Diocesan Human Relations Services and DIS are a non-profit corporation. Contri­ butions are deductible for income tax purposes. Artists needed for newspaper We are seeking anyone interested in sub­ mitting drawings, paintings, sketches, photography or similar works that we could consider for publication in Wabanaki Alliance. Work by amateurs and children is welcome, and all material will be handled carefully and promptly returned. Send your work to Wabanaki Alliance, 95 Main St., Orono, Me. 04473. Brennan: Indians lack basis for land claims AUGUSTA — Maine’Attorney General s says Indians have no legal basis for their land claims, and also have no rights to monetary damages* In a nine page letter to Maine Legislators, Atty. Gen. Joseph E. Brennan said he would like to see the Indians’ claims to 12.5 million acres o f land (or $300 million) settled “ a in court o f law,”where Brennan is confident the State would win the case. Brennan also discounted the validity o f a 1790 Indian Non-Intercourse Act, passed by Congress,_ that said all treaties thereafter must have Congressional approval. The Passamaquoddy and Penobscot tribes of Maine have based their claims and a lawsuit on the provisions o f that Act, citing a number o f violations. In 1972 the tribes asked the U.S. govern­ ment to sue the State o f Maine, and two years later, a U.S. District Court ruled that the U.S. must protect the tribes’ interests. But despite the court ruling in favor o f Indians, Brennan said he believes the Indians do not have a case. “ We firmly believe that the Indians will not be successfull in their claim. We assert that view after careful historical and legal analysis, and without equivocation,” Bren­ nan said in the letter. Brennan claims that at the time o f the Non-Intercourse Act, Penobscots and Passamaquoddies had no legal claim to Maine lands because o f a 1759 proclamation by Provincial Gov. Thomas Pownal of Massa­ chusetts. Pownal declared that all land in what is now Maine was won by conquest. Therefore, argues Brennan, tribes “ lost any right of aboriginal possession.” “ Distinguished record” Brennan says in his letter to legislators that Henry Knox, a Maine resident who was Secretary o f War, 1784-1794, was in charge o f Indian affairs. Knox did not intend the Non-Intercourse Act to apply to Indians in any o f the states, or to Eastern Indians, Brennan claims. Knox bought three million acres o f land from Massachusetts in an area now claimed by the two Maine tribes. Brennan argues that in purchasing that land, Knox proved it did not belong to Indians. “ Unless one is to assert that Knox was acting illegally, an assertion wholly un­ supported by Knox’distinguished record of s public service, one can only conclude that Knox correctly believed that the land he purchased did not belong to any tribe, and that the Non-Intercourse Act did not apply in any event,”Brennan said. Brennan, in another argument, states that the admission o f Maine as a state in 1820 was tacit approval o f all previous treaties with Indians. Although Brennan admits there was no debate on Indian affairs when Maine joined the Union, he said, “ even if we assume that the Non-Intercourse Act applied to New England Indians, it seems clear that in admitting Maine to the Union in 1820 Congress approved all the treaties up to then,” Apparently, land claims were disputed in the 1700’ Massachusetts and Penobscot s. Indians signed a land agreement in 1796, after ten years’ refusal to sign the pact on the part o f the'Indians. Brennan said that agreement was to “ resolve a long standing dispute.” Another dispute was resolved when Passa­ maquoddy Indians were granted 23,000 acres in 1794, Brennan said. Brennan said the current dispute raises the question o f whether the U.S. has a “ moral debt” to Indians. He said this question should not be confused with the legal issues o f the land claims case. In terms o f the land claims, the Indians are owed nothing, according to Brennan. �Page 4 Wabanaki Alliance September 1977 Wilderness Pursuits challenge youth ORONO — The Wabanaki Wilderness Pursuits Program is about to begin here, taking Maine Indian youth on adventurous hiking, camping, climbing and canoeing ex­ peditions throughout the year. A written proposal for the project states, “ believe that an Indian youth can attain We greater knowledge of himself through direct encounter with stress. In coping with and understanding stress, he discovers strengths within himself that he may be able to tap at a later time. Dale Mitchell, 26-year-old director of the state-funded but privately organized co-ed program, said the purpose o f Wilderness Pursuits is to teach self-confidence and con­ fidence in others. A wilderness experience will teach responsibility and resourceful­ ness, he said. M itchell explained that a rugged wilderness experience involves a joint effort that can bring out the best in young people, age 12 and up. “ Everybody seems to need to get high. We want to show there are other ways to get high than alcohol and drugs,”he said. A camping experience fosters self-reli­ ance, leadership, as well as love and compassion, said Mitchell, who has himself undergone tough training sessions. “ ve I’ seen some pretty dynamic results,”he said. “ This thing has just sort o f brain­ stormed,”Mitchell said. Actually, a year’ s worth of planning has gone into a proposal that won a $40,000 grant from Maine Criminal Justice Planning and Assistance Agency last March. Mitchell’ program is sponsored by s Wabanaki Corporation Inc. o f Orono, a non-profit agency dealing with alcoholism and related services. Help has come from Project USE Maine, a private wildernessoriented group with a base camp at North Turner. Wilderness Pursuits are tentatively set to officially start within the next few weeks, using the Debsconeag Lakes area north of Millinocket, and other suitable sites. Mitchell has perm ission from Great Northern Paper Co. to use the Debsconeag region. To maintain the wilderness character of Debsconeag, not even so much as a trail will be blazed to campsites, Mitchell said. In the area are opportun ities for m ountain climbing with ropes, canoeing on the West Branch o f the Penobscot, hiking the Appalachian Trail and Mount Katahdin. Katahdin is incorporated in an emblem designed for Wilderness Pursuits. Wilderness trips will include eight young men and women, plus two qualified, trained instructors. Trips will range from weekend outings to a full 21 days, depending on the time of year and other conditions. Mitchell said all Maine Indian youth — including Passam aquoddy, Penobscot, Micmac and Maliseet — are eligible to join a Wilderness Pursuit trip. There is no charge to the participant or his or her parents. A Passamaquoddy from Pleasant Point, Mitchell heard about plans for a wilderness program while operating heavy equipment at the reservation. He now heads the program from an office at 93 Main St., Orono. Mitchell attended Eastport high school, spent four years in the U.S. Marine Corps and attended University of Maine at Farmington. Mitchell has traveled around the U.S., and is devoted mountain climber, using ropes and other technical equipment. Perhaps more difficult than any climb was Mitchell’ job of selecting eight s instructors from a group o f 14 Indians who underwent a stiff training course at Project USE, and in the White Mountains o f New Hampshire. O f the eight leaders, six remain. Instructors for Wabanaki Wilderness Pursuits pose informally at the program’ 93 Main s St., Orono, headquarters. The group was, preparing for a reconnaissance outing to Debsconeag Lakes area. Instructors for the program are Mitchell, Richard Love, Tony Joseph, David Socoby, Mark Altvater, and Jessie MacGregor. The four-season program has already tried trips with small groups at Pleasant Point. Mitchell, an articulate and thoughtful speaker, said “ teamwork builds confidence in others, as well as in yourself. Our program gives everybody the opportunity, to participate, but nobody is treated any better than anyone else.” Mitchell explained that part o f the program’ purpose is to let young people s make mistakes and take on new challenges, as long as these don’ threaten health and t safety o f those involved. “ a person sleeps in a gulch, and it rains If and he gets soaked, he sure won’ do it t again. We feel that if a person makes a mistake, its experiencial learning,”Mitchell said. Another kind of learning takes place in a blin dfold game, that M itchell calls “ empathy.” He said a person can under­ stand what it’ like to be blind if he must s feel another’face to identify that person, or s must rely on others’ judgment as he walks blindfolded. A written program description says Wilderness Pursuits means “ forgetting .for a brief period the technological society we live in and dealing primarily with basics — food, shelter, actions, feelings.” It means, “ becoming part o f a team — living as a community, solving problems together, sharing the excitement, the dis­ appointments, and the joy — reaching out to help others, having others reach out to you.” The program will provide all equipment outside o f basic clothing, including tents, winter boots, sleeping bags, backpacks, life vests, food and related items. For further information contact Mitchell at his office, telephone 866-5577. Christ taught virtues Indians uphold, AIM says INDIAN ISLAND — Vernon Bellcourt, an American Indian Movement (AIM) spokesman and an Ojibwa from Minnesotta, was questioned by a reporter here recently on the role o f the Church in Indian society. In random comments on the role o f Chris­ tianity in Indian culture, Bellcourt said, “ The number one enemy o f Indians is Chris­ tianity. Not, I want to add, the teachings of Christ.” Bellcourt said Jesus Christ taught many of the same virtues that Indian peoples have followed since pre-Christian times. White Americans no longer follow the true teach­ ings, according to Bellcourt. “ True spiritualism is man’ respect for s nature, for the earth. What was brought here (by white settlers) was un-civilization.” he said. Indians do not make wars, bombs, and dehumanize people’ lives. Therefore, s Indians are actually the “ civilized”people, not whites, Bellcourt said. Bellcourt said he had nothing against Indians practicing the teachings o f Christ: “ We have deep love and respect for (Indians) who have followed Christianity,” he said. But Bellcourt maintains that historically, the Church has been “ advance force”of the government takeover o f Indian land. He said the Church has been part o f “ spiritual genocide" against Indians. Indian spiritualism and Christianity are like oil and water, according to Bellcourt. One can shake them up, “ and they mix pretty well as long as you keep shaking,”he said. But let them settle, and they separate, he added. The worst offense o f whites has been “ cultural genocide," Bellcourt said. “ Who was it who destroyed this culture? It was education — European philosophies that frankly overwhelmed us. “ The strength o f Indian-ness was educated right out o f (Indian children in white schools). That's why we have the high pushout rate — we call it pushout instead of dropout because they are pushed out by racist education that teaches Columbus dis­ covered America,”Bellcourt said. “ (AIM) have several schools operating We across the country: the concept we have there is pro-Indian; a true history of America that deals with spiritualism. W e’ re developing a student that has first his own identity intact, through knowing about his own culture, his spiritualism and history. “ We want the minds o f our children back,”Bellcourt said. Bar group to meet OAKLAND, Ca. — The American Indian Bar Association has slated its annual meeting Nov. 4-5, at Phoenix, Arizona. The agenda includes speakers on the topic of Indian criminal jurisdiction. A recent asso­ ciation newsletter said directors hope to change the organization from “ purely paper” into one that “ provides genuine service to the Indian legal community.” �Wabanaki Alliance September 1977 Page 5 Indian policy report issued WASHINGTON — The Senate Select control at the local tribal level; restoration Committee on Indian Affairs has reported o f Federal recognition to terminated and that the Final Report of the American non-recognized tribes and a reestablishment Indian Policy Review Commission is ready of their land bases and tribal self-govern­ for public distribution. ments; tribal control over economic and The report consists of over 600 printed natural resource development; and the pages contains thirteen chapters and establishment o f an, independent agency or proposes a total o f 206 recommendations to separate Department of Indian Affairs. the Administration and to Congress. "Although the Commission’ work over s the past two and one half years has received a fair amount o f publicity and notoriety, the significance o f this Final Report has yet to be realized,” Senator James Abourezk (DS. Dak.), chairman of the Senate Select ORONO — Wabanaki Alliance has-been Committee on Indian Affairs, said. awarded a grant o f $8,788 in federal funds, "It is the first comprehensive study in our to hire an assistant editor. nation’ history ever to be conducted by s The newspaper applied to. Penobscot Indian people themselves and contains the Consortium of Bangor, area sponsor for most accurate and well researched account federal Comprehensive Employment and ever written about the Federal-lndian rela­ Training Act (CETA) monies, and the full tionship. While the primary purpose o f this application was approved after a formal report is to ipake a case for recommenda­ review process. tions calling for long needed reforms in the The new position will be listed with state Federal Indian policy, it will also be a employment agencies and will also be valuable educational tool to enlighten the advertised, as soon as a contract is worked American public who are largely unin­ out by Penobscot Consortium. The assistant formed about the significant historical rela­ ed ito r’ resp on sibilities will include s tionship o f the U.S. Government with reporting, planning, and assistance in the Kim Mitchell, at work at Maine Public Broadcasting Network [MPBN] studio, on the Orono Indian tribes and the unique status o f the day to day operation and production o f the campus, University of Maine. American Indian in our society today,” newspaper. Abourezk said. “ re delighted the position has been We’ Among the recommendations contained approved, and we hope qualified individuals in the report are: the development of will apply for the job," said Steven Cart­ Federal policies to assist Indian tribes in wright, Wabanaki Alliance editor. “ are We their transition into fully operational gov­ especially interested in Indian applicants,” ernments with the same powers and respon­ he added. sibilities as other local governments; a Wabanaki Alliance is published monthly reorganization o f the Bureau of Indian by Division o f Indian Services, Diocesan ORONO — A young man who has He said the damaging “ lazy Indian, unwill­ Affairs from top to bottom changing it from Human Relations Services Inc. o f Maine, a straddled both white and native Maine ing to work” stereotype is the result of a program management to a technical non-profit corporation o f the Catholic Indian worlds says it’ time for ‘ s ‘ people to whites misunderstanding Indian culture. assistance or service agency emphasizing Church. get back to their Indian roots.” As an example o f misunderstanding, “ s a time for rediscovery. 1 really take Mitchell cited the concept o f time and It’ pride in being an Indian,” said Kimball scheduling. “ Time with the Indian is Mitchell, Penobscot Indian and a program nothing. That’ why Indians have a lot of s director at Maine Public Broadcasting Net­ trouble with the white man’world. One of s work (MPBN)in Orono. the elements that keep the Indians in their Kim Mitchell, 23, is married to a non- own little world is the time element. Often Indian woman, and the couple lives in Still­ the whites can’ understand this,”he said. t water, not far from the Penobscot reserva­ As a radio director, Mitchell must follow tion at Indian Island, where Kim was bom strict schedules, putting him in a position and grew up. “ lot o f people on the island where he “ see both sides” f how time is A can o might say I’ abandoned my Indian handled. In many other ways, being an ve heritage. 1 have a nice white-collar job, a Indian working with whites, and married to nice wife, new car. But it’not so,”Mitchell a white, offers Mitchell a chance to see both s said. sides. Mitchell said in a brief interview at “ Generally, the Indians get along with MPBN studios-that he is not an “ apple,”a white people pretty well. O f course, this land metaphor o f being red outside and white claims issue has gotten blown all out of inside. But he said there are persons who proportion,” Mitchell commented, adding, might call him one. “ there is more tension than a couple o f years Asked why he moved off Indian Island, ago. But not as much as people think.” Mitchell said, “ the opportunities aren’ t Asked his opinion on the outcome o f the there. I’ not going to let that fact hold me Maine Indian lawsuit to regain 12 million m back. Mitchell comes from a low-income acres o f land, Mitchell said, “ s going to be It’ background and has had to rely on his own a long time before anything’ settled. s determination to achieve personal goals, he Especially with the adamant stand the state Judge William B. Gunter glances at newspaper during break in secret land claims taBts at said. is taking (asserting Indians have no valid Orono. Although he is a full time radio producer- claims). It’ going to be a long time before s director, Mitchell still finds time to belong we see anything.” to the 12-member Penobscot Indian Tribal A 1976 graduate o f University o f Maine at Council. He said he believes in his work, Orono, Mitchell has said he has been in­ teels what he does is important and interest­ terested in communications for years. “ s It’ ing. something I always wanted to do as a kid. I Did Mitchell have advantages as a child? went into the wrong major, natural resource No. he said. “ parents were as poor as a management. Broadcasting is the thing I've My lot of people. always liked.” said. he "The Indians have to have something they Mitchell switched majors, graduating can reaily believe in.” Mitchell said. His with a degree in broadcasting with a minor father is currently an advisor to Penobscot in journalism. He is working at MPBN Indian Enterprises. Indian Island, and was under a two year federal minority assistance a former stitcher at Old Town Shoe. His grant. R ecalling earlier sch ool days, mother, a former Indian affairs agent on the Mitchell said. “ made it through high I island, now works with a vocational reha­ school with about an 84 average. I was no bilitation program at Bangor. ‘ wiz’ kid. but that (high average) was con­ Mitchell has two older brothers, both sidered tremendous on the reservation." living and working outside the reservation. Kim Mitchell “ definitely”identifies him­ Kim Mitchell has never had a problem self as Indian, but at the same, time he with motivation, but he was quick to point observed. "My world is really split between Mrs. William B. Gunter, left, received a tour of Indian Island from Ann Pardilla, Penobscot out he does not believe Indians are “ lazy." the Indian and the white world.” Indian. Paper wins grant for new job slot Broadcaster sees need for Indian cultural roots �Page 6 Wabanaki Alliance September 1977 Resolutions of border conference (See story on front page) On Geneva Peace Conference On native peoples conference On land, government, the border WHEREAS Native People o f New England WHEREAS the Six Nations Confederacy WHEREAS the border frequently dissects and Eastern Canada assembled in con­ will be presenting the Jay Treaty issue Tribal populations and Tribal Terri­ ference at the Penobscot Nation in at the Geneva Peace Conference in tories and thereby confuses and ob­ Maine to discuss the impact o f the Can­ September, 1977; and structs the functions of Tribal Govern­ adian-United States Border on Indian WHEREAS the Tribes o f Eastern Canada ments on both sides; and Affairs; and and the New England States have con­ WHEREAS this division has further created WHEREAS resolutions were passed ex­ vened at the Penobscot Nation to dis­ confusion about the Tribal Status of pressing our concerns; and cuss Indian Border issues; those portions o f Tribes, living in their WHEREAS the resolutions adopted are THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the aboriginal territory, but divided by the being forwarded to the National Indian findings and resolutions o f this assem­ border from their Tribal Government. Brotherhood o f Canada and the Na­ bly be forwarded to the Six Nations and And the Abenaki peoples o f Quebec this assembly fully support the Six tional Congress o f American Indians; and Vermont have taken initial steps to Nations in their presentation of the THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the deal with this problem; and Jay Treaty in Geneva. National Congress o f American Indians WHEREAS Tribes possessing aboriginal and the National Indian Brotherhood title to unified geographical areas and form a joint committee to pursue the depend upon the land and waters of On Canadian-U.S. border crossing rights implementation o f the resolutions voted these areas as a necessity o f life have WHEREAS from Time immemorial, the In­ at this conference, and that this joint seen these areas artificially divided by dian Nations o f the Northeast United committee immediately establish con­ the border and have seen their abor­ Noel Knockwood, a Canadian Micmac States and Eastern Canada have main­ tact concerning these matters with the iginal rights and Tribal sovereignty Indian attending border conference, said he tained tribal territories through their Federal Governments of the United jeopardized by the intrusion o f alien is interested in reviving authentic Indian Political Sovereignty as Nations; and States and Canada, and that this joint laws; and spiritualism. Knockwood has taught school WHEREAS our Nations have permitted ac­ committee regularly inform the Indian WHEREAS the aboriginal people and In­ in Canada, but felt his Indian pupils were cess through our territories to other Nations represented at this conference dian Tribal governments should re­ not learning their native language, nor were Indian Peoples; and on its actions and accomplishments assert their aboriginal rights as either they being exposed to Indian cultural tradi­ W HEREAS foreign powers have established relative to the resolutions; band or Tribal entities and should work tions. many invisible lines or borders through BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that this to abolish all foreign governmental con­ our Nations which do not relate to our joint committee pursue the establish­ trol over determination o f their mem­ traditional, hereditary territories; and ment o f an International Joint Com ­ bership which should be entirely con­ On Indian services, benefits mission on Indian Affairs composed of WHEREAS the Treaty of Peace, signed in trolled by the Indian Tribal govern­ Paris in 1783 by the United States and Indian representatives to implement WHEREAS members o f Indian tribes from ments; and Great Britain, which fixed the border the Federal responsibilities o f the the United States and members o f In­ WHEREAS the Penobscot and Passamabetween the United States and the D o­ United States and Canada towards dian Bands from Canada who cross the quoddy Tribes and the Micmac and minion o f Canada, was not intended to North American Indian people; and International Boundary are denied Maliseet people on the United States and did not affect Indians and made no side o f the border have worked with ap­ services in the areas o f Welfare, Educa­ BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the division o f our Country; and National Congress o f American Indians tion, Health and Employment; and propriate governmental jurisdictions to WHEREAS the Jay Treaty signed on No­ and the National Indian Brotherhood secure hunting, fishing and trapping WHEREAS Indians from Canada are re­ vember 19, 1794, by the United States present the resolutions adopted at this quired to register as “ Aliens” in the rights for their Canadian brothers and and Great Britain provided for the con­ conference to the meetings o f the sisters, but such rights are not recipro­ United States in violation o f U.S. laws tinual,' unmolested Aboriginal Right World Council o f Indigenous People, cated for any tribal members crossing to become eligible for such benefits and o f North American Indians to freely scheduled for late August, 1977 in Indians from the United States are re­ into Canada; and cross and recross this foreign imposed Sweden. quired to register as “ Landed Immi­ WHEREAS such major incursions and en­ imaginary line; and vironmental alterations to aboriginal grants” in Canada to be eligible for WHEREAS on May 4, 1796, both parties lands as dams, pipe-lines, oil refineries, benefits; and declared the Indian provisions o f the highways, and dangerous waste dis­ WHEREAS there does not now exist an Jay Treaty to be “ permanent”through agreement between the two govern­ posal have been planned and executed Urban Indian council an Explanatery Article; and ments to provide services to Indians in without Indian consultation and con­ WHEREAS on December 24, 1814, the tinue to be planned at the present time any consistent manner; and supports conference Treaty o f Ghent further reaffirmed the without Indian participation; and WHEREAS the existing non-Indian child terms o f the Said 1794 Jay Treaty; and WHEREAS on many occasions both Great welfare systems in both countries have Britain and the United States have seriously undermined the Indian family WHEREAS: The United States-Canadian WHEREAS representatives o f both the United States and Great Britain met made treaties and otherwise dealt with structure and have contributed to the border disects many tribal territories and with the chiefs o f all Nations and Tribes Indian Nations without regard to the loss of Indian identity and families and their tribal populations, and of Indians from the East and West and children who have crossed the border WHEREAS: this has resulted in denial o f or border; from the North and South and assured are particularly vulnerable to these sys­ confusion concerning the tribal status of THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that them that by the Treaty o f Ghent no those members who are citizens o f one action be taken to permit the rejoin­ tems; boundary line should exist between our ing of border-divided Tribes and the THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the country and residing in the other, and people and no duties, taxes or customs establishment o f reunified Tribal gov­ United States and Canadian govern­ WHEREAS; this has further resulted in inshould be leived on us; and ernments; and m ents through the appropriate consistancies concerning immigration and customs policies as well as denial o f social W HEREAS the Indian People o f the North­ BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the agencies — Bureau of Indian Af­ east are North American Indians Tribes with aboriginal title to unified fairs, Department o f Indian Affairs and health care services in urban New whether born in what is now called the — establish an agreement to provide England areas for these non-citizen Indians, geographical areas which have been United States or what is now called assistance including, but not limited to, and sundered by artificial boundaries can­ Canada; and WHEREAS: the Region I Indian Task not properly and should not forcefully the following service areas; be compelled to observe restrictive Medical — hospitalization, medica­ Force o f the Federal Regional Council, Con­ WHEREAS North American Indian people are not border-conscious; and border-related laws; and tions, examinations, transporta­ federation o f Indians o f Quebec, Union of BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the de­ tion, dental, optical, alcoholism, Nova Scotia Indians, and Union of New W HEREAS neither the United States nor Canada honor their obligations to termination o f Band or Tribal mem­ mental and physical examinations, Brunswick Indians, through initial meetings Indian People under these treaties; and on Aug. 16-18 and subsequent meetings, are bership is an aboriginal right reserved etc. endeavoring to seek clarification and WHEREAS these powers have established Education — kindergarten, primary, to Indian governments; and vague and arbitrary immigration and BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that action high school, university, technical, solutions to immigration, customs, and customs regulations which restrict our similar to that taken by the Penobscot tuition, supplies, stipends, trans­ social and health care problems o f the tribal freedom at the border; populations disected by the border, with one and Passamaquoddy Tribes and the portation, counsellors, etc. Micmac and Maliseet people in Maine Welfare — Food, shelter, clothing, intent being that of developing a proposed THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the customs and immigration requirements to secure hunting, fishing and trapping child welfare, deserted families, service agreement between Canadian and which are imposed by the Governments United States government agencies, for rights to Wabanaki Tribes from beyond social workers, etc. o f the United States and Canada be consideration by those Indian populations Maine’ border be taken in the Can­ s Housing, Employment, Legal Assist­ abolished with respect to North Ameri­ affected, adian Provinces and appropriate States ance, Recreation, etc.; and can Indian People; and within the United States; and BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the BE IT THEREFORE RESOLVED that the National Urban Indian Council fully BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that both BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the proposed International Joint Commis­ powers accept the inablienable rights of planning process for any construction sion on Indian Affairs begin to explore supports the endeavors o f these groups to North American Indians included in project affecting Indian land include a methods by which this could be done clarify and recom m en d solu tion s to the Jay Treaty, the Treaty of Ghent and problems affecting these populations who strict requirement for formal review by and to recommend how such an agree­ other similar agreements. reside in urban areas in New England. the affected Indian governments). ment might be established. �Wabanaki Alliance September 1977 Page 7 A border conference workshop panel discusses issues. In each workshop, all persons attending were invited to comment or ask questions of the panel. Bids rejected on town building INDIAN TOWNSHIP — Bids on a budgeted for the new building. proposed new municipal building here were At the Aug. 12 meeting o f the council, the. rejected at a recent tribal council meeting Project Division was instructed to explore becau se qu otations far exceeded a acceptable alternatives and to make a report construction budget. to the council at a later date. Bidding on the proposed fire and police Attending the meeting were Lt. Gov. municipal building complex were Cyr Con­ Harold Lewey, Brian Bowdoin, business struction, Caribou, and Dalton Industries, manager, Robert Lewis, project developer, Chelmsford, Ma. Dalton’ bid of $279,000 George Stevens, housing authority executive s was disallowed due to improper format, director, Steven Kuruntz, architect’ repre­ s according to the Passamaquoddy Reserva­ sentative, Edward Paul, general manager, tion Housing Authority at Indian Township. and Councilman Dennis Tomah. Also, Dale Cyr Construction’ adjusted bid of Powers o f Cyr Construction, and Ralph s $316,550 was way above the $129,000 Dorr, Dorr Construction. Charles W. Rhynard Longley to replace Rhynard as commissioner AUGUSTA — Gov. James B. Longley is expected to appoint a new Commissioner of Indian Affairs in the next few weeks, choosing from a half dozen candidates recommended for the job. The candidates are all Indians, according to Charles W. Rhynard, the current commissioner who submitted the recom­ mendations. Rhynard, a non-Indian, said his candidates met with approval from tribal goyernors at a recent meeting attended by Governor Longley. Rhynard’predecessor, Penobscot Indian s George M. Mitchell, quit the commis­ sioner’ post. s When Rhynard, a political consultant, agreed to take the commissioner’ job in s May, he told Longley he would serve only until a replacement could be found, 60-90 days. Ninety days were up at the end of August, and Rhynard said he now thinks he will not serve beyond the end o f September. Rhynard said a commissioner does not necessarily have to be an Indian. The first Indian to serve in the post was Mitchell’ s predecessor, John Stevens, a Passama­ quoddy. Stevens is governor o f Indian Township reservation. Border conference was filmed by a crew from Akwesasne, Rooseveltown, N.Y. Chief Agnes Sanipass of Bactouche Reserve, Buctoache, New Brunswick, attended the U.S.-Canadian border conference at Indian Island with her husband, above. Her reserve is 275 acres, but only 14 Indians occupy the area, all of them relatives of Chief Sanipass, a Micmac. The Chief has a sister, Elizabeth Phillips, who resides in Houlton. PEACE PIPE is passed between Penobscot Gov. Nicholas Sapiel, center, of Indian Island, and Abenaki Chief Walter Watso of Quebec, during evening ceremony by firelight. The ritual symbolized the unity of Canadian and U.S. native peoples. John Sapiel, a Penobscot, looks on. �Page 8 Wabanaki Alliance September 1977 A flashback to the past Land claims compromise sought (Continued from page 1 ) Both the Governor and Attorney General Brennan have said the case should be handled “ the proper legal fashion.” in Brennan has often stated Maine would win a court battle over the Indians’ claims. Gunter opposes a court settlement. “ I don’think the matter could go on through t the courts because o f the economic chaos it would cause,” said. he Gunter went on to say, “ The tribes did not understand what my assignment was. I think the tribes thought that I was to be a mediator.” Gunter said he considered his assignment on Maine Indians completed, but he remains directly involved in the case as President Carter’representative. Gunter s was also busy preparing a report on Mashpee Indians in Massachusetts, a tribe that has also presented a land claims suit. Meeting with Gunter were members of the Penobscot-Passamaquoddy negotiating committee, including Wayne Newell of Indian Township, Gail Dana and Robert Newell o f Pleasant Point, Andrew X. Akins, Perry, and Timothy Love, Indian Island. Also present were Governor Sapiel, Indian Island, and Gov. Francis Nicholas of Pleasant Point. At least a dozen interested tribal members attended the session. The only non-Indians admitted were Gunter and lawyer Tureen. Keeping up Indian named to BIA post WASHINGTON — Forrest J. Gerard, an American Indian, was nominated recently to take a job as the first assistant Secretary of the Interior for Indian Affairs. U.S. Interior Secretary Cecil D. Andrus described Gerard as “ intelligent advo­ an cate o f Indian causes and an outstanding executive.” A member o f the Blackfeet Tribe, Gerard headed the professional staff for the Senate Subcommittee on Indian Affairs from 1971 through 1976. In this period he was involved in the development o f the Indian Self-De­ termination and Education Assistance Act, the Indian Financing Act, the Menominee Restoration Act, the Indian Education Act of 1972, the Indian Health Care Im­ THREE PASSAMAQUODDY Indians pos* n.u. a Jesuit priest, left, in this circa 1860-75 provement Act and the legislation establish­ photo. The first Jesuit mission was established among Abenaki Indians in 1613. [From the ing the American Indian Policy Review photo collection of the Smithsonian Institution.] An; historical photos submitted to Commission. Wabanaki Alliance will be handled carefully and promptly returned. Gerard, 52, opened his own consulting office after leaving the Senate Subcommit­ tee Staff in 1976. He had previously worked for the Indian Health Service as Tribal Relations Officer and for BIA as Legislative Liaison Officer. (Continued from page 1 ) Both NIB Vice President Dennis Nicholas services to North American Indians have and NCA1 Executive Director Chuck “ obviously been there for a long, long time.” Trimble spoke at the conference, noting that Indians are showing their strength and New confederacy Chief Walter Watso, o f the Confederation asserting their rights. The meeting itself was of Indians o f Quebec (CIQ), com mented. a show o f strength and unity, they said. W A SH IN G TO N — The National Talking about a white backlash against during the opening day o f the conference, Advisory Council on Indian Education They are disturbed “ We speak o f rejuvenating the Wabanaki Indians, Trimble said, “ (NACIE) has asked all interested tribes, over the increasing sophistication o f tribal Confederacy... I think we can do it.” agencies and individuals to attend a full Watso said Indians, “ citizens o f North government, and the assertion o f our council meeting Sept. 17-19, at Dallas, Tex. America,”should not be restricted in their sovereign powers.” On the agenda for the three-day session Ending oppression movements across the U.S.-Canadian are an executive director’ report, commit­ s Trimble called for “ end of dominance the border, whether for work, family, health or tee reports, plans for future NACIE activi­ and oppression o f Indian people everywhere. whatever reason. He spoke o f “ consider­ a ties, special reports and regular council able awareness among Indians o f their I think we can take heart in the unity and business. The meetings will be followed by he rights, and at the same time a lessening of brotherhood ... shown here,” said. the National Congress of American Indians, Commenting„ on the final resolutions of awareness on the part o f customs officials.” The res­ slated Sept. 18-23, in Dallas. Watso called for a reaffirmation o f the the conference. Chief Watso said, “ A call for Indian rights Education panel slates meeting 1794 so-calied Jay Treaty, that established Indian rights to freely cross the border. Many Indians at the conference claimed rights have been eroded over the years, with requirements for work visas, alien registra­ tion and general harassment at the border. Tom Paul, a Canadian Indian and a member o f the American Indian Movement (AIM), told the conference, “ ve had a lot of I’ experience crossing borders, and I’ had a ve lot of hassles. To me a treaty is just a dirty word. The white man has broken all his promises. "W e are caught up in their ways on top of their language. Alcohol has killed thousands of Indians,” Paul said, adding, “ m I’ familiar with the white man’ laws because s I’ done time in prison for assault. ve It was because o f alcohol.” Taking a more extreme position than many Indians at the conference, Paul said, "What 1think we should do is write our own laws, and present them to the government of Canada and the United States.” Women's group seeks members BOSTON — An Indian women’ group s that claims several thousand members has invited Maine Indian women to join the association. Organized seven years ago, the North American Indian Women’ Association s (NAIWA), has chapters across the nation, plus members in Canada, Mexico and South America. Pam Kiser Colorado o f the Boston Indian Council distributed information and an invitation to join the group at a recent U.S.-Canadian border conference at Indian Island. Colorado is associated with an area chapter o f NAIWA. A printed circular describes the associa­ tion’purpose as working toward family and s tribal stability, and increasing understand­ ing among people o f different backgrounds. In recent years, younger women have become involved in NAIWA, although older, more traditional women were the first members, the circular said. “ you see If things that need to be done on your reserve or community and (you) are willing to work on them, NAIWA would like to welcome you as a member,” said. it For further information contact Colorado at Boston Indian Council, 105 South Hunt­ ington Ave., Jamaica Plain, Boston, Ma. Tribal review deadline changed WASHINGTON — The Bureau o f Indian Affairs (BIA) has agreed to extend a dead­ line for comment on procedures to decide if an Indian tribe should be given federal recognition. The action moving the deadline to Sept. 18, 1977, follows numerous requests for more review time, according to a news release from the U.S. Department o f the Interior. olutions we have here will probably have to be revised, but at least we have a starting point. That’why this is a historic meeting.” s Anniversary marked by traditional rite INDIAN ISLAND — A traditional wedding anniversary took place here recently for Mr. and Mrs. Francis C. Sapiel o f 4 Oak Hill Street. Attending the ceremony were relatives and friends o f the Sapiels, including John Sapiel. Arlene Capp and former state Deputy Commissioner o f Indian Affairs S. Glenn Starbird. Jr. The event included auth­ entic Penobscot ritual dancing and clothing. "Let’ have more traditional weddings.” s said Francis Sapiel. whose Indian name is Bobcat Glossian. His wife is the former Edwina Neptune. HOULTON — Four area students graduated recently from Houlton High School, and at least three of them have definite plans for the future. They are [from left, above] Deloris [Dee] Francis, who will attend University of Maine at Orono; Sue Silliboy, to attend North­ ern Maine Vocational Technical Institute; Ken Breedon, to join the U.S. Army; and Annette McKee, who hasn’decided on her plans yet. t � Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource <em>Wabanaki Alliance</em> (September 1977) Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Indian Resource Center Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1977-09 Contributor An entity responsible for making contributions to the resource Donald Soctomah Julia Brush Language A language of the resource English Type The nature or genre of the resource Document Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource pdf Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context DV-422 Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Passamaquoddy Cultural Museum Rights Information about rights held in and over the resource Steve Cartwright. Used with permission. https://www.dawnlandvoices.org/collections/files/original/845b28660a554d57298032cbc517a6e4.pdf 97e77dd5f4acca0f91694c2607123de5 PDF Text Text Non-profit Organization U.S. Postage Paid 3.1c Permit No. 15 Orono, Maine A llia n ce September 1979 Tribes to set up Indian courts BANGOR — Tribal leaders, land claims lawyer Thomas N. Tureen, and a gaggle of federal officials met at the federal building here this month, to consider ways in which a tribal court system can be established on Maine’ three Indian reservations. s The meeting marks a determined step toward tribal sovereignty for Penobscots and Passamaquoddies. The Penobscot tribe couid set up courts within a month, officials said. Assistant U.S. Attorney James W. Brannigan, serving Maine’ northern district, told s Wabanaki Alliance the purpose o f the meeting was to “establish a viable system of justice on the reservations . . . to start in motion the orderly machinery o f criminal jurisdiction in view o f the Sockabasin-Dana case.” Brannigan referred to the arson case of Allen J. Sockabasin and Albert C. Dana, Passamaquoddies who were convicted of trying to bum the Indian Township school. In an appeal o f their cases, the Maine supreme court ruled that the crime occurred in “Indian country,” and was subject to federal, not state jurisdiction. No further action has been taken against Sockabasin or Dana, and Brannigan said the supreme court decision leaves a “void” in jurisdiction over Indians. The state has appealed the court ruling to the U.S. supreme court. Another test case involves William A. Holmes, a non-Indian charged with man- slaughter in the death o f Penobscot, Adrian Loring, at Indian Island. Holmes’ lawyer claimed state jurisdiction did not apply to Holmes, and the courts agreed. Holmes would face a maximum 20 year prison sentence under Maine law; a maximum 10 year sentence under federal law (Major Crimes Act, and Assimilated Crimes Act). There are other cases “now in limbo,” according to Brannigan. While the Penobscots have already voted to pursue tribal courts to handle lesser crimes (larger crimes will come under federal jurisdiction), the Passamaquoddies had not reached a decision yet on how to handle misdemeanors. Passamaquoddies reportedly were faced with “internal prob lems” in choosing between a U.S. Bureau of Indian Affairs court, or a tribal court. They were expected to opt for tribal courts, following the Penobscots’example. Attending the recent Bangor meeting were John Bailey, public safety coordinator at Pleasant Point; Kirk Loring, head warden at Indian Island; George Warren Mitchell, public safety director at Indian Township; Harry Rainbolt, Eugene Suarez Sr., and Patrick Hayes o f Bureau o f Indian Affairs; Hans Walker Jr., U.S. Interior Department; Tureen, Brannigan, and Assistant U.S. Attorney William H. Brouder Jr. Also attending were FBI agent James J. Dunn of Boston, and local agents. (Continued on page 6) Indians receive communion from Pope BOSTON — Five Passamaquoddy In dians from Pleasant Point traveled to see Pope John Paul II at Boston Common, Oct. 1 and received the eucharist. . Four o f them were children: Rachel Nicholas, a seventh grader; Margo Richter and Merlin Francis, students at Lee Academy: and Tommy Brown, a pupil at Pembroke elementary school. Accompany ing them was Grace Bailey, eucharistic minister at St. Ann's. Pleasant Point, and cook at the reservation school; and the Rev. Joseph Mullen, priest at St. Ann's. The children led a procession prior to com munion. 100th Anniversary The Sisters o f Mercy at St. Ann’ s, Pleasant Point, will celebrate the 100th anniversary o f their arrival, in ceremonies Oct. 7, at the reservation. Auxiliary Bishop Amedee Proulx o f the Catholic Diocese of Portland will attend. Events start at 1 a.m., 1 with a dinner, and traditional dancing at 2 p.m. LOOKING AHEAD — Pleasant Point construction supervisor Melvim Francis, Passamaqnoddy, adjusts a transit on site of planned tribal health and social services building. He seems to have a small assistant standing by. Footings are in for foundations on the one story wood fra*?e clinic., which will measure 123 by 44 feet, p!os 20 by 23 feet e!office space. Work started last month; expected completion date is March 1980. Brennan criticai of claims offer WASHINGTON — Maine Gov. Joseph E. Brennan is reportedly opposed at least in part to a revised Penobscot-Passamaquoddy land claims settlement plan. A report in the Bangor Daily News said Brennan “expressed strong reservations re garding new demands by the Maine tribes which increase the terms for an out-of-court settlement o f the tribes’suit by $17 million.” The current status o f the proposed resolu tion o f claims involves an increase in the award o f land from 100,000 acres to 300.000; and several grants to establish a sawmill, repair or build new reservation schools, plus road and bridge work. The tribes have expanded a proposed settlement drafted by former Sen. William D. Hathaway of Maine. Brennan declared after a meeting in Washington with Maine’ s Congressional delegation: “ I am concerned by the demand o f these new funds. It was my feeiing there w an understanding last fail fas and that understanding was that the tribes wouid get $37 million, along with some further assistance by the federal Bureau of Indian Affairs.” The Governor also said, “ 1 am not opposed to the tribes getting Indian funds, or funds which are taken from Indian setasides in the federal budget. But I am concerned that this money may be coming from programs which have been designated for the benefit o f the other 1.1 million residents o f the state o f Maine.” Sen. William S. Cohen o f Maine said he is confident that should the 12.5 million acre claim go to court, the state is adequately prepared to defend itself through former Nixon lawyer James St. Clair, recently re tained by Maine in connection with Indian claims. Passamaquoddy island purchase hits snag PLEASANT POINT — Lengthy negotia tions for the purchase o f Carlow Island by the Passamaquoddy tribe, have been set back by a letter o f opposition from the town o f Eastport. Carlow Island, which abuts the reserva tion, has been sought by the tribe for over a year, to be used for further housing for the reservation’ mushrooming population. s The owners, Charles and Helen Kroupa of Long Island, New York, reportedly had agreed to sell the 80 acre island for $160,000. The sale was expected to occur in early October, according to one tribal official. The letter o f opposition, signed by Douglas Richardson, former administrative assistant to the town manager, called the purchase an “intrusion into the sovereignty o f Eastport” and labeled the HUD Small Cities program money, used for the pur chase, "a misuse o f federal funds.” Eastport Town Manager Everett Baxter said the letter referred to the town’ concern s that the land would be lost, if the tribe bought it. He charged that the tribe had failed to publicize the purchase, in violation o f federal laws involving spending public money. "The town doesn’ want to lose 70 t acres o f taxable land without knowing about it,” he said. Richardson expressed similar sentiments. “The town wasn’ opposed to something t being built, but we were afraid we would lose sovereignty over the property. We would welcome anyone into the city of Eastport,” he said. Carlow Island is evaluated for tax purposes at $33,000, with $594 in property taxes paid on it last year. It is currently undeveloped. Richardson said that the letter was sent out by town council president, Norman Young, although the full council was not aware o f it at the time. According to Rich ardson, a HUD representative told Young that if the town objected to the sale, it had better send a letter to HUD “in a hurry.” A copy o f the letter was sent to the congressional delegation. Norman Denton, HUD area representa tive, said his office has put the Passama quoddy grant proposal for the purchasing funds “on hold,” until the “very complex” legal questions can be resolved. He confirm ed that the tribe does desire to annex the island as part of the reservation and that it has petitioned Bureau of Indian Affairs (BIA) to have the land put into trust. Unless the tribe can annex the land, the tribal housing authority “must demonstrate that it has the legal right to operate outside of its municipality,” in order to qualify for the grant, Denton said. This might require a ruling from the Maine State Attorney General, he added. According to Denton, HUD is going to wait until the legal issues (Continued on page 6) �Page 2 Wabanaki Alliance September 1979 editorials A question of right The following comments appeared as a letter to the editor in the Bangor Daily News o f Sept. 12. 1979, in response to questions raised in a previous letter. — How do the Indians prove that the land is theirs? It is our belief and the belief o f the federal government, and many other prominent individuals both within this state, and out, that the State o f Massachusetts violated the legal rights o f the Penobscot *and Passamaqouddy Indian Nations by taking, by threat o f war, approximately 12.5 million acres o f hunting territories from the Province o f Quebec to Passamaquoddy Bay. The federal government did not approve these transactions which was, and is, required by federal law. — How do we prove that it isn’ theirs, or do we try? t That’ one for someone else, but we don’ believe it can be done s t should the occasion ever arise. — How many Indians are there in ..the State o f maine? 1,500 Penobscots (total membership), 2,000 Passamaquoddies (total membership), 1,100 Micmacs (State o f Maine population), 900 Maliseets (State o f Maine population). — If we gave the Indians their land back and the money they ask for why do we still have to give them food stamps, state aid, federal funds for their energy savings projects, etc.? When our white people can’ get any of this without going through a lot o f red tape and still t don’ get it, all they seem to say is we want, we get; now we have. t If you gave us all o f our land back and no money, you could keep your food stamps, state aid, and federal energy saving projects. Other than that, most Indian people who are fortunate enough to have jobs still pay state and federal income taxes, and help fund the same public assistance programs you d o with your paid tax dollars; not all Indians use public assistance any more than non-Indians. — With all they have received from us, why can’ they make it on t their own; that is what they said they could d o if they had it. Ninety-five percent o f all we ever received from the state and fed eral governments has been welfare. Only recently have we begun to dig ourselves from a pit o f depression to the exercise o f our sovereign rights. Consider what you received from us in sovereign violation o f your own laws in 1794, 1796, 1818, 1820, 1833, 1915; all land transactions, the earlier ones by threat o f war and the others in typical fashion, “by hook or crook.” Now, you “make it.” Finally, you ought not be so critical o f the people overseas: after all, I’ sure there was a time in the history o f this country when your m ancestry was some o f those “people overseas” in need, or why else did they come to this land? W ho knows, it could have been in the early times when your people were without, and the Indian people trusted them a little too much. Tim Love Penobscot Nation Indian Island WEBS IN THE SEA — Billy Altvater’ fishing weir in Passamaqnoddy Bay stands as a link s between the Passamaqnoddy fishing heritage of the past and the tribe’ plans to turn back s to the sea in the future. These plans include a fish processing plant, fishing boats, a marina, an aquaculture program, and a tidal power plant What money can't buy The recreation department at Pleasant Point is an oddity, as tribal agencies go. M ost o f its staff receives no money, yet they throw themselves into their work with great spirit. In the absence o f the massive federal funding enjoyed by many other agencies, recreation materials and money are hard to com e by and appreciated all the more. Necessity breeds ingenuity, and the department survives by its own wits. Operating in an apolitical atmosphere, the recreation program allows people to forget their differences and com e together for awhile as a community. Spirit, sharing, frugality, community; all these characteristics are found in the recreation department. They read like a page from the past when, the elders tell us, people wanted each other, not money. The present may be rapidly catching up with recreation director Linwood (Red) Sapiel as plans to tap Bureau o f Indian Affairs (BIA) resources take shape. A large community park with many recreational facilities is even on the board. Few would dispute that Sapiel and his staff o f dedicated volunteers deserve the financial support. The recreation department provides Pleasant Point kids with healthy options for spending youthful energy. It also stands as one o f the very few deterrents to alcohol and drug abuse currently on the reservation today. These services alone make the department worth a healthy injection o f funds. Red Sapiel has said that whatever money is granted him would be used more for equipment than salaries. Still, if the recreation depart ment is fortunate enough to receive a sizeable grant, one would hope the department’s most valuable asset is not lost in the onslaught o f new opportunities. Money cannot buy dedication. �Page 3 Wabanaki Alliance September 1979 letters Common ground A suggestion Warren, Ohio To the editor: We have been receiving the Wabanaki Alliance now for about two years. There is no doubt that it is the best Indian newspaper that we get. It is the only one that has such a varied format. The main reason that I am writing is to make one suggestion. In many o f the past issues you have done some very fine articles on some of the local craftsmen: (Billy Altvater, Passamaquoddy, baskets; Edna Becker, Penobscot, baskets; Mary Gabriel, Passamaquoddy, baskets; Newell Tomah, Passamaquoddy, canoes; Francine Lewey Murphy and Eunice Lewey Crowley, Penob scot, baskets). I am sure that not only our selves, but other readers, would like to order some o f these beautiful crafts, providing the individuals would want to sell them. I am suggesting that you publish in your paper a list o f these individuals or even better, compile a booklet o f all the crafts people in the area, their speciality, their address and prices. We have wanted to order some crafts from that area for a long time but had little luck with the already established craft outlets. Thank you again for a wonderful paper and I hope that someday you will be able to include the suggestion in it. David Carbaugh Warren City Schools Apology to Colcord Cooper To the editor: Hello. I have moved to Maine recently, till now I never had the chance to see your paper. I’ been getting Akwesasne Notes ve for a few years and I’ heard Wabanaki d Alliance mentioned in it every so often, but never had an address. So while I was down at the Common Ground Fair in Litchfield a couple week ends ago, I came across your paper at the AFSC booth. At the moment I have no job — I can spare a small amount for a dona tion. I would appreciate receiving Wabanaki Alliance in the future. Also have you ever run a column on Indian herbal medicines? It's all right out there, and it seems it could be real beneficial for those o f us looking for a better way. Just a thought. Steve Hendershott Island to give away Ravenna, Ky. To the editor: As the XAT (a quasi-religious, almost ineffable spiritual force) publicity director, my principal duty has been in the operation of an information clearing house. Recently, I have learned from a reliable source that a retired U.S. Naval commander is interested in selling or “giving” an island off the coast o f Maine to an American Indian group if the circumstances were appropriate. The information is vague, but the island is Maiden, N.C. To the editor: r e a l. I t a p p e a r s t o b e 2 0 t o S O This is an open letter o f apology to west of Belfast. I have seen a photograph of Charley Colcord. the island and know the name. There is After examining Thunderbird’ (Webber) s some confidentiality required in the ob so-called rolls 1found there to be only 5 or 6 taining of this property. people who might be classified as Lumbee This letter is to let the native American people, many whites and many blacks but population in your area know about this 50only 5 or 6 Lumbee’s out of approx. 40.000. plus acre island. He is trying to get money from H.E.W. And the XAT Public Information Office and various organizations for his so-called here is sponsoring the formation o f the nation which is not recognized by the B.I.A. Kentucky Indian Council (to be modeled or the Lumbee people. after the Tennessee Indian Council), the I have found the Lumbee’ have not now s sponsoring o f an Arts and Crafts Center or ever voted for a chief, which is the only with a retail and wholesale service outlet democratic way o f having a true leader near the old trading post site Ay-Wah-Nee representing the people. and the development of a housing corpora I hope you and others will forgive me but. tion, which has a possible 48-unit Farmers Charley Colcord is speaking o f the same Home Administration 515/Housing and Webber who has called himself chief o f the Urban Development Section Eight project Cherokees, Creeks, and now Lumbee. near the proposed Arts and Crafts Center in If anyone needs more information I Estill County, Kentucky that can be suggest they contact John Shapari in the obtained. B.I.A. he knows o f this Thunderbird Anyone interested in any o f these pro Webber. posals might contact me. Again Charley I am sorry. Samuel E. Naive Jim Chavis Wabanaki Alliance Vol. 3, No. 9 September 1979 Published monlhlj by the Division of Indian Services [DIS] at the Indian Resource Center, 95 Main St., Orono, Me. 04473. Steven Cartwright, Editor William O’Neal, Ass’L Editor DIS Board of Directors Jean Chavaree [chairman] John Bailey, Public Safety Coordinator Albert Dana, Tribal Councilor Timothy Love, Representative to State Legislature Jeannette Neptune, Community Development Director Jeannette LaPlante, Central Maine Indian Assoc. Susan Desiderio, Assn, of Aroostook Indians Maynard Polchies, President, Aroostook Indians Melvin L. Vicaire, Central Maine Indian Assn. Reuben C. Cleaves, Representative to State Legislature Sept. 30, 1979: One hundred years of service The Rev. Joseph Laughlin [left] and Auxiliary Bishop Amedee Proulx are flanked by Indian Township children and the Sisters of Mercy as they celebrate the 100th anniversary of the Sisters’presence at the Township. [Photo by Allen J. Sockabasin] Great concern Sault Ste. Marie, Mich. To the editor: Please send me information and the price of your publication, Wabanaki Alliance. I have followed the fight your people have waged for your land rights with great concern. My people, too, are in the middle o f several court battles over land rights. I am Sioux City, Iowa To the editor: I'm writing you about my brother Stewart Rodda. As I read in your nice paper about our Indian blood: I don’ know who this Red t Eagle Steere is but we are not Sioux and •V TTercrtlwrxydr-uTiuic^ttnu m o u T t r ioia uj> d n o L have*been more successful in the courts than I have proof also o f our Choctaw blood; our the Chippewa o f the Upper Peninsula of great-great-great grandmother. This Red Michigan. Eagle Steere is not reporting it right, is all Cathy Mertoli wrong. Such trash should not be allowed in your wonderful paper. I’ really good and m mad at such stuff. N ew sp aper folds Lorraine (Fire Eyes) Thompson Vancouver, B.C. To the editor : This is to inform you that due to the dissolution o f our Society that the publica tions you have been sending us can now stop, so please delete us from your mailing list. We thank you for your interest in our Society and its former publication ‘ Nesika. Joy Hall Native Media Society Scholar likes paper DIS is an agency of Diocesan Human Relations Services, Inc. of Maine. Subscriptions to this newspaper are available by writing to Wabanaki Alliance, 95 Main St, Orono, Me. 04473. Diocesan Human Relations Services and DIS are a non-profit corporation. Contri butions are deductible for income tax purposes. Notes relatives Hartford, Ct. To the editor: Please put me on your mailing list. On a recent visit to Wells, Maine, we saw an issue, August 1979. In it is a picture on the back page, of Indians on the Mowhawk Trail. Many are our relatives. We would like an issue o f the August 1979 publication if possible. Joan F. Tomah Amherst, Mass. To the editor: Thank you for my copy (Vol. 3, No. 8) of Wabanaki Alliance. As an anthropologist — and person — interested in native American affairs I would like to continue receiving your paper on a regular basis. To this end I enclose a ten dollar contribution. Jean Ludtke Cherokee confederacy Indian Island Pleasant Point Indian Township Indian Island Indian Township Orono Houlton Houlton Mattawamkeag Pleasant Point Defends brother Leesburg, Ga. To the editor: The Southeastern Cherokee Confederacy, Inc. was incorporated here in Georgia, Nov. 12, 1976. We received our proclamation from Governor George Busbee o f Georgia Dec. 20, 1976. We are accepting members with 1/16 or more o f Indian heritage, but they can’ belong to two tribes at one time. t For more information write to Chief William “ Rattlesnake” Jackson, South eastern Cherokee Confederacy, Leesburg, Georgia. William “ Rattlesnake” Jackson Corrections A story in the August issue about a potluck supper sponsored by Central Maine Indian Association incorrectly identified Linda Collinson as an outreach worker. She is health and social services director for the off-reservation organization. * * * Last month’s Wabanaki Alliance describ ed Longest Walk baby, Amassiliget Pimoset Francis McDonald, as having a Maliseet and Penobscot name. Actually, Amassiliget means longest walk in Micmac, and Pimoset is “one who walks” in Passamaquoddy. Also, the story omitted mention of the proud father, Duma McDonald. Our apologies. * * * A black cat, shown with Penobscot medicine man, Sonabeh. in a picture in the August Wabanaki Alliance was incorrectly listed as belonging to Sonabeh. The cat, who has no name, belongs to another Indian Island resident, Burnell Mitchell. �Page 4 Wabanaki Alliance September 1979 Pleasant Point sports open to all The recreation department may be on the eve o f a financial breakthrough, with the advent o f Bureau o f Indian Affairs (BIA) money onto the reservation. With an eye to BIA support, the tribe is planning a community park which would largely be run by the recreation department. The park would include a multi-purpose play field, a children’ playground and s wading pool, foot paths and bridges in natural settings, and even a ski slope. Sapiel said that the natural area may include a freshwater pond, stocked with fish. If the park is to become a reality, Sapiel estimated that approximately $380,000 BIA dollars will be required. Meanwhile, for the first time, Sapiel is approaching tribal government with a $5,000 to $6,000 budget request to cover the entire year, rather than seeking funds on a contingency basis as in the past. “ We don’ want a lot o f money for t salaries,” he added, noting that his staff works for nothing. Sapiel sees his responsibility as more than providing fun for the youngsters in the com munity. “We’ here to teach them some re thing for when they go into other communi Pleasant Point Recreation Director Red Sapiel monitors a young athlete’s progress on the ties, so they can adjust and fit.” He also tries weights. to engender a feeling of belonging in the community. “When we ran the little league, I played everyone, regardless o f ability, even in championship games, so they would feel a part o f the team. I like to take everyone to MARY A. SAPIEL smith for 40 years. He was a U.S. Army the (awards) banquets just to give them the INDIAN ISLAND — Mary A. Sapiel, 53, veteran. He is survived by his wife, Edna feel,” he said. “That’ my role on this reser s , vation, instead of (making) championship o f River Street, Indian Island, died Sept. 1 (Love) Becker, o f Indian Island; one son, 1979. She was bom on Indian Island, May Fred H. o f Indian Island; three daughters, teams.” Sapiel hastened to point out that the Pleasant Point teams have good records, 24, 1926, the daughter o f Howard and Nora Catherine Belair o f Norwalk, Conn., Mary (Paul) Ranco. She was a member o f St. Ann Louise Prouty of Shelton, Conn., Mary anyway. Church and the St. Ann Society o f Indian Elizabeth Mastri o f New Haven, Conn.; 29 Sapiel is concerned about the use o f alco Island. She is survived by her husband, grandchildren; five great-grandchildren. hol and drugs by reservation youths. “This Nicholas Sapiel o f Indian Island; two sons, Funeral services were held at St. Anne’ s is why we got involved in drug abuse (pre vention)," he said. “We saw some o f our Nicholas and David o f Indian Island; two Catholic Church, Indian Island. daughters, Mrs. Hope Fitt o f Charleston, Interment was in the tribal cemetery, kids smoking dope." His concern led him S.C.. and Mrs. Theresa Snell o f Tacoma, Indian Island. and one o f his staff, Inez Nicholas, to begin Wash.; one brother, Irving Ranco o f Indian training to become alcohol and drug abuse Island; two sisters, Mrs. Gloria Hutchinson counselors. In conjunction with the reserva ANTHONY J. TOMAH tion Department o f Health and Social o f Manchester, N.H., Mrs. Alice Sockabasin PLEASANT POINT — Anthony J. Services he also plans to start an Al-Teen o f Indian Island; 10 grandchildren; sev Tomah, 58, died Sept. 24, 1979 at an eral nieces, nephews and cousins. Funeral program, which works similarly to Alco Red Sapiel takes time to reflect on his pro services were held at St. Ann’ Church of Augusta hospital following a long illness, he s holics Anonymous. gram’ future. s Indian Island, with the Rev. David Cote was bom at Princeton, July 26,1921, the son Sapiel, a Penobscot, bom on Indian officiating. Burial will be in the tribal o f Francis and Mary (Lola) Tomah. With the exception o f Sapiel’ salary, the Island, moved to Pleasant Point to live with s He served in the Canadian Army and later his wife, Mary Nicholas. He has held such cemetery. department receives no regular funds. Con in the U.S. Armed Forces during World sequently, Sapiel must make periodic perilous jobs as log driver and steeplejack, War H. VALENTINE PAUL BECKER appearances before tribal council or call and served a stint in the Marines. However, Survivors include one brother, Newell INDIAN ISLAND — Valentine Paul local businessmen to ask for money or when he got back to the reservation, his love Becker. 66, o f 123 Oak Hill Road, died at Tomah, Sr. o f Pleasant Point; several nieces equipment. He said he has also had luck o f children grew into his present work with his residence Aug. 28. and nephews. getting coaches from University o f Maine at the kids. A Mass o f Christian burial was celebrated He was born Sept. 7, 1912, in New Sapiel admitted that sometimes the job Rochelle. N.Y., son o f Valentine and Cath Machias to donate time to training reserva at St. Ann’ Catholic Church with the Rev. s tion sports such as volleyball, gymnastics, gets to be too much for him. " I get upset. erine (Hickey) Becker. He had been em Joseph Mullen officiating. Interment was in and tennis. Travel is the biggest expense, he When that happens, I take a couple o f days ployed at Owens-Illinois and was a gun the Tribal Cemetery, Pleasant Point. off, and go home to visit my mother.” said. By Bill O ’ Neal PLEASANT POINT — Linwood (Red) 'Sapiel runs one o f the most under-funded, highly successful departments on the reser vation. With an all-volunteer army of helpers and whatever money he can scrape up, he wages a yearly war on boredom, delinquency, and fat. As director o f Pleasant Point’ recreation s department, Sapiel is charged with com munity programs ranging from little league for the youngsters to bus tours and beano for the elders. Sapiel can usually be found sitting behind a large, blunt cigar, which he chomps on while he talks. He has a slow way of speaking, which belies a schedule that some times keeps him going 70 hours per week. He is currently organizing the winter sports program. “The big thing here is volleyball,” he said. He estimated that 140 people would be playing on at least eight reservation teams. The usual winter sports such as basketball will also be offered, Sapiel said. A winter sports carnival is planned, although no details have been worked out. Indian dancing and crafts will be offered by Sapiel’ wife, Mary. There may also be a s course in aerobic dancing, which combines dance and exercise. Obituaries Canning workshop perks interest HEALTH WORKERS — Martha Barstis, left, and Doris Chapman, are employed by Passamaquoddy Health and Social Services at Indian Township. Barstis is a community health representative, a job that involves follow-up on patients, home visits, counseling and referrals. Chapman works in a senior companionship program with the elderly of the tribe. By Kathy Tomah Area Correspondent INDIAN TOWNSHIP — On Tuesday, August 21st and 28th, there was a canning session held at the Indian Township School at Peter Dana Point. The co-ordinator for this was Sonja Dom, and her two assistants Martha Barstis and Doris Chapman, both community health representatives. Sarah Wilson, extension agent for Wash ington County in Machias, conducted these two sessions. The participants were shown the pro cedure in using a pressure canner for carrots, beets, string beans, zucchini and tomatoes; the freezing o f broccoli, com and blueberries. They were shown how to prepare pickled beets and green tomato pickles (chow-chow) that are processed in hot water. Also, Diane Francis of Pleasant Point volunteered her time by coming down and showing them how to make blueberry jam. The participants were: Ann Socobasin, Annabelle Sockabasin, Sylvia Tomah, Aud rey Sacoby, Joan Dana, Frances Tomah, Janet Neptune, Beverly Sopiel, Brenda Dana, Blanche Sockabasin, Alice Lola, Ramona Soctomah, Lillian Stevens, Linda Neptune, Irene Newell, Patricia Sockabasin. The purpose o f this session was to help interest people in growing their own gardens which would enable them to can and freeze their surplus vegetables. Sarah Wilson stated that it was a wonderful group and that they worked very hard and participated with great interest. Rights commission names new director WASHINGTON — Jacob Schlitt, 51, has been hired to head a New England Regional Office o f the U.S. Commission on Civil Rights, Staff Director Louis Nunez an nounced recently. He and a staff o f six civil rights specialists and support personnel moved into their permanent headquarters, 55 Summer St., Boston, August 1 . �Wahanaki Alliance September 1979 Page 5 A spiritual challenge to priests, Indians By Br. Larry Smith, S J. During August I spent two weeks in South Dakota. One week was spent in Plainview, South Dakota at the Sioux Spiritual Center making my annual eight-day retreat, and another week at Holy Rosary Mission (Red Cloud Indian School) in Pine Ridge, South Dakota; where Fr. Joe Laughlin and I met with the National Association of Native Religious. This group of Indian priests, brothers and sisters, are an inspiring group with whom I try to get together every summer. We had Mass each morning at sunrise out on a hill while facing the East and the rising sun. Our final mass o f the get-together, however, was the most inspiring for me. Un fortunately, because o f rainy weather we had to have the mass indoors. One of the Sioux Sisters was celebrating twenty-five years as a Franciscan Sister, and the Mass was the spiritual celebration o f her anniversary. The main celebrant o f the mass was Fr. John Hascall who is a Chippewa Indian priest from Minnesota. Father John is also what we would call a “healing priest" in the spirit o f the charismatic renewal. Most interesting is the fact that he is also the officially recog nized traditional medicine man for his Ojibway Indian people. These Indian Catholic spiritual leaders are an amazing group o f people. It is important to note, however, that the Wabanaki people o f Maine have also had a long, important, though unrecognized his tory of catholic Indian spiritual leaders who freely embraced the Catholic faith and were vehemently loyal to that faith. To show you what I mean, I would like to quote from an article written in 1913 in The Indian Sentinel, a national Catholic Indian maga zine: “In the beginning of the 18th century the governor o f Massachusetts, anxious to win the alliance o f the Abnakis in war and 'to accomplish their defection from the Catholic faith, offered to rebuild at his own expense the church at Norridgewock which the English had destroyed. The governor laid down one condition, namely, that the Indians should dismiss their missionary and accept one of his choice. The Indian envoy indignantly replied: “When you first came here, you saw me long before the French governors, but neither your predecessors nor your ministers ever spoke to me o f prayer or the Great Spirit. They saw my furs, my beaver and moose skins, and o f this alone they thought; these alone they sought, and so eagerly that I have not been able to supply them enough. When I had much they were my friends, and only then. One day my canoe missed the route; I lost my path, and wandered a long way at random, until I landed near Quebec, in a great village o f the Algonquins, where the Black-gowns were teaching. Scarcely had I arrived, when one of them came to see me. I was loaded with furs, but the Blackgown of France disdained to look at them; he spoke to me o f the Great Spirit, o f heaven, o f hell, o f the prayer, which is the only way to reach heaven. I heard with pleasure and was so delighted with his words that I remained in the village near him. At last the prayer pleased me and I was instructed. I solicited Baptism and was Baptised by the Black-gown. I then returned home to my people and related all that had happened. All envied my happiness and wished to partake it; they, too, went to the Black-gown to be baptized. Thus have the French acted. Had you spoken to me o f the prayer as soon as we met, I should be now so unhappy as to pray like you, for I could not have told whether your prayer was good or bad. Now I hold to the prayer o f the French; I agree to it; I shall be faithful to it, even until the earth is burnt and destroyed. Keep your men, your gold, and your minister; I will go to my French father.’ The real apoctle, an Indian Charles Meiskwat, an Indian, is the real apostle, the pioneer o f faith, among the Abankis. From Sillery, the Jesuit mission on the St. Lawrence, where he had led a truly saintly life, Charles set out for Maine wilderness on an embassy o f mercy. He had heard that a party o f non-christian Abnakis were being tortured by non-christian Algon quins in spite o f the fact that they belonged to the same Algic family, as their language would show. Charles lost his companion. Nicolet, who was drowned in a rapid, but. undaunted, he hurried on in quest o f his countrymen. He found them, rescued the victims who were just then being tortured, and brought them back in triumph to Sillery. Here they were first cared for physically. Then they were instructed in the “prayer” by the Sisters and priests. When they had recovered and been instructed, they sent Charles with one of their number to carry the good tidings o f their rescue and the Kennebec . . . Such was the real beginning o f Abnaki missions, which date from 1642. The catechist, or deacon, as he is called among the Abnakis, has been a great factor in the spread and preservation o f the faith. At Old Town the memory o f the saintly, prayerful Sak Bason Swasson is held in benediction. He was the governor, a man of majestic mien. He is said to have been a direct descendent of Baron de Castine who married Sagamore Madocawando’ daught s er. He daily made the stations of the cross. He spent over an hour in this exercise every day. It was for his people, he explained. “Among the Passamaquoddies, Toma Dana was the rival o f Bishop Healy in apostolic work. The Indian could sing all the Mass. Once when he joined with the bishop in intoning vespers, it was a great success. Toma delcared ‘Me and the bishop sing good today. We can’ beat nobody.’ He t meant that no one could excel these two. . . . It is certain that for a number of years the Abnakis were without a missionary devoted exclusively to them. They sent delegation after delegation to get a priest to come to them.... “The testimony of Father Maloney, who knew the Indians of Maine at their best and at their worst, may well conclude this account of these people whose ancestors were the first fruits o f the harvest o f souls among the Indian tribes o f the north, the wampum belt, the pledge given that many tribes would surrender to the cross o f Christ. Father Maloney writes: “As for the Indians themselves, I found them a warm-hearted, simple, grateful people, towards those whom they found sincere with them, but suspicious, crafty, and entirely untrustoworthy in regard to those who were in any way tricky in their dealings with them. In one word, they are staunch friends, and can be inveterate enemies. They never forget a kindness, nor do they forget, although they may for give, an injury. My memories o f them are of the happiest. Never did I have warmer friends than the Indian friends o f the Passamaquoddy tribe.” This account written over sixty-five years ago shows us very clearly that due to the lack o f priests, the Catholic Church would never have taken root and survived in Maine if it were not for the dedication and persistence o f the Indian people themselves and their faith-filled catechists or “deacons.” In the years to come, perhaps within our lifetime, the number o f priests will continue to drop, until the day comes when there will be no priest to live and work on a full-time basis with the Indian people. When that day comes, will the Indian people o f Maine have the dedicated Catholic spiritual leaders, the catechists and deacons, that their ancestors had 100 years ago, or will the Catholic Church just fade away and cease to exist among the Indian people? Only you can answer that question. EDITOR’ NOTE: Brother Larry Smith, S a Jesuit, is deacon at St. Ann’ Indian s Mission, Pleasant Point Passamaquoddy reservation. He would like readers to know he has a videotape available o f the events described in his report. Family portrait; Front row, from left, Nicole, Mitchell and Kristin Johnson, with parents Ruth and Lonnie. Letter describes racial tension for Indian child Uniontown, Alabama To the editor: I would greatly appreciate it, if you would print this letter. You may edit or rewrite anything in it. I am writing emotionally right now as I am heartsick. Thurs!, Sept. 6,1was to put my 8 year old daughter, Kristin, on a plane back to the reservation. The Uniontown school system is in a turmoil and it is not even safe to send my daughter to school here. In a school enrollment of approximately 1,190 there will be no white children in the Uniontown school system, as we are the only Native Americans in Uniontown there will be no Indians either. The 1,190 students will all be black. Last year Kristin attended a school with a ratio o f 78 per cent negro to 22 per cent white. The federal government decided to consolidate the Uniontown schools on Aug. 27, which means Kristin would be bused to an all-black school. Every single non-black family has either moved, or enrolled their children in private schools. I cannot afford either alternative at this time. If I send her to any other public school system, her school records will not be re leased, and she will get no credit or grades. This is the government’ way o f enforcing s the zoning regulations, and I face a $500 fine for contempt of court. I am enclosing an article so you will know what I’ talking about. Kristin attended m Uniontown High School. This article does not reflect all that we have found out through phone calls, personal visits and attorneys’ advice. My daughter’s best friends’parents had to sign legal guardian ship papers over to her sister in order that U.H.S would release their school records for them to attend school in Marengo County. They also cannot afford to move right now. Initial enrollment fees for private school start at $200 to $850, with monthly tuition of $75 to $130 a month. This does not include food, clothing or transportation. My son, Mitchell, 5 years, cannot start kindergarten, as it is not mandatory and there are no vacancies. One school told me they were not taking any more white students (classifying Mitch white because his father is white) another school said they had filled their minority qualifications (classifying Mitch, Native American). Black students have threatened “ any student, black or white coming from Uniontown High into Hatch, or Uniontown Elementary. The police have found knives, lead pipes and pistols on students enrolled at Hatch. Four rapes occurred at Uniontown Elementary last year. The Ku Klux Klan has stated it will march on Uniontown on the opening school day. Uniontown is a time bomb right now. What choice do I have? I cannot take a chance on Kristin being hurt. Her father is deeply hurt to think that he unintentionally exposed her to this situa(Continued on page 1)3) �age 6 Wabanaki Alliance September 1979 CA IA eyes Charleston A for vocational school ORONO — Central Maine Indian Asso ciation has applied for usage rights to the abandoned Charleston Air Force Station (CAFS). The off-reservation organization has sub mitted tentative proppsals to establish a high school and vocational education facility there, with some health services also offered. The proposal is similar to one CMIA developed early this year for Dow Am munition Storage Annex which is still pending. Donna Loring, CMIA president and David Rudolph, planner for CMIA, both favor .he Charleston site, although the agency’ board o f directors has not formally s approved the shift o f location. According to Rudolph CAFS has numer ous advantages over Dow. Unlike Dow, he said, the land is already developed and all the necessary construction has already been done. Also, no rezoning effort is necessary as at Dow. The only disadvantage Rudolph cited was the distance from major Indian populations served by CMIA. Although several other groups have pre viously applied for the land, including the Young Adult Conservation Corps (YACC) at Indian Island, currently only the state Department o f Inland Fisheries and the Department o f Mental Health and Correc tions are competing with CMIA for the facility. Fisheries wants the land primarily as a green belt buffer for nearby wildlife man agement projects it is conducting. Correc tions is viewing the site as a possible minimum security prison. The proposed vocational school would offer primarily management courses in the areas of hotel management, agriculture, manufacturing research, alternate energy technology, building, road maintenance, water/sewer systems, and heavy equipment. The courses would emphasize on the job training, Rudolph said, with much of the training being accomplished as routine maintenance of the Charleston facility. Rudolph said the school would also contract its services to the surrounding communities. Indian court system planned (Continued from page 1 ) The Penobscot tribe is making final prep arations at Indian Island to establish a tribal court system which could be function ing by early October. Meetings were being held at press time to consider what sort o f court and which legal codes would be adopted, and a general meeting o f the tribe had been called to vote on the proposals. According to Timothy Love, a tribal official working on the proposals, the Code of Federal Regulations, a federal body of laws used by some other tribes, was rejected because Bureau of Indian Affairs (BIA) would control the court. The Bureau, how ever. will fund the expense o f running the courts. Love added. Love said the tribe would probably adopt Maine state hunting and fishing ordinances in addition, to Indian legislation already on the books. The Maine criminal code cov ering misdemeanors and state traffic code would also probably be used, he said. According to Love, the tribal court will be able to try civil cases and misdemeanors, but not felonies. The state and the tribes are currently embroiled over whether felonies committed on the reservations are subject to state or federal prosecution. Non-Indians cannot be tried in tribal courts for any but civil offenses. Love said MOOSEMEAT stew was among dishes offered at Central Maine Indian Association “getthe tribe is considering changing fish and acquainted” potluck supper, held at Orono. Here, CMIA board member Bridget Woodward game violations to civil offenses so that nonis ready to serve. Indians can be tried in the Island courts. The nearness of hunting season was respon sible for the push to ratify the new courts, he said. One general court, with a chief judge and associate judge, along with an appellate court with three judges, are planned. A lawyer to act as consultant to the court is also expected to be included in the system. Judges in tribal courts need not have legal degrees. Love said. No final decision has reason why a settlement couldn’ resolve t (Continued from page 1 ) been reached on who the judges will be, disputes over land such as this,” he said. although Love mentioned Penobscot Gerald are sorted out. He could not predict how Asked what the state’ position on juris s Pardilla. who has had paralegal training, as long that would be. diction over Carlow Island would be, Pater a possibility. son said, “I could speculate but I’ rather d Asked to comment on the sale o f Carlow According to Love, the Island appellate not say.” court “has the final say” in cases tried on Island, Maine Ass't. Atty. Gen. John The HUD grant would allocate $100,000 Paterson stated, “ I had never heard o f it the Island. He added that the only re to Pleasant Point for the purchase, plus strictions on the court system are the Indian until this message.” He said the status of $25,000 for planning. The tribe would have Civil Rights Act and Indian Bill of Rights, Carlow Island, if purchased by the Passama to come up with the remaining funds else which, he said, are modeled along lines of quoddies, will probably be "a subject of where. dispute." the US Constitution. Pleasant Point lieutenant governor Cliv Although courts cannot be set up for a Paterson said the “best possible solution” Dore declined comment on negotiations month, at least, summonses can be issued over the land and the legal questions raised, would be to have Indian jurisdiction for any immediately, he said. Referring to the lands in Maine defined in a negotiated other than to say the issue was “very possibility o f other Maine tribal courts, Love settlement of land claims. “There’s no delicate.” said, "The Passamaquoddies are right behind us.” Sale of Carlow Island opposed Quakers meel with Indians ORONO — Several Indian persons told Quakers at a meeting here that while help is welcome, Indians should be making deci sions to preserve their autonomy and culture. Tom Vicaire, director o f Central Maine Indian Association, said, “ Respect for the abilities and needs o f the Indian com munities (could) stimulate initiative.” Pro jects should allow "more involvement from the Indian community,” he told members of the American Friends Service Committee, and other Quakers. "I think we badly need Indian input,” said Mary Griffith, staff worker for the Friends committee on Indians. Griffith has helped develop a film and slide show on Maine Indians, and has formed a committee on curriculum and education. THE BEGINNING — Some of the first contributions to the Penobscot museum being built at Indian Island. Missing is a sacred mask, which could not be photographed. Barbara Moffatt, a Quaker official and special guest speaker, said Friends have been concerned about American Indians for many years, at first working to bring relief to Hopi and Navajo tribes. In the 1950’ s, Quakers brought social and technical assistance to Sioux Indians at Pine Ridge, S.D. Friends have also worked on Indian fishing rights in the northwest, and have had a long relationship with Maine Indians, she said. Others speaking were Sipsis (Eugenia Thompson) o f Indian Island, who asked not to be quoted on her remarks, and John Nicholas, Pleasant Point Passamaquoddy school board chairman, who said, “The way I see it, the affluent society is killing us.” Also attending were Andrea and Darryl Nicholas, Canadian Indians, and Daniel Francis from Pleasant Point. Andrew Grannell, moderatdr o f the meeting, stated that, “A real bond o f trust has been established here.” �Wabanaki Alliance September 1979 Page 7 Conflict over space may leave some pupils out of school INDIAN ISLAND — Confusion and mis understanding seem to surround the Pen obscot day care and kindergarten programs, and the losers might be young children who can’ join either program for lack o f space t and funds, and new eligibility requirements. The story starts seven years ago, when the Indian Island elementary school began an early childhood program. Funded through federal Title 20 money, the program has been conducted by Laura Massey, only full time Indian teacher on the school’ staff. s Last spring, a program started at the recently constructed Penobscot Health and Social Services building. A day care service for 2 - - year olds, the new program runs V1 5 year-round and is funded partly through Title 20 funds. That’ where there’ a rub. s s The Indian Island school was informed several months ago that Title 20 funds must be used for year-round day care, and the early childhood program was ineligible for the funding. But the problem isn’ just t funds, according to school principal Sr. Helen McKeough. She said day care cannot enroll enough children to take up the slack created by changes in the school’ early s childhood program. In the past, the school childhood program has served four year olds and five year olds (kindergarten). Kate Nelligan, day care director, has a current limit o f 20 slots for children; her present enrollment is 16. “The service we’ providing here is one o f a social re nature. It's for children of working par ents,” she explained. Sister Helen, on the other hand, em phasizes that the school’ program is educa s tional, not a social service. “Parents are really worried. They thought that their children were going into a developmental program like we had here,” Sister Helen said. “At this point the school board is very concerned,” said Sister Helen, noting that the community has confidence in its board. The fate o f the early childhood program and its pupils has been discussed at recent school board meetings. "The school board said, we’ afraid re there’ be all kinds o f kids ... I’ been told ll ve some of the new housing will open up in November,” Sister Helen said. She said she does not want to be "overlapping or com peting” with day care, but feels the school program filled a need that day care does not. She said Indian Island is “a community very much interested in education.” The school board has discussed obtaining funding through the Indian Child Welfare Act, but this source seems uncertain. “We’ looking for solid funding so that we re can run an early childhood program that can operate in conjunction with the school, as part of the school system, but without the restrictions of Title 20 funds,” Sister Helen elaborated. Nelligan does not quite understand Sister Helen’ concerns, and says that if more s funding for day care can be obtained, her program could be enlarged to an enrollment of 28. Guidelines require 35 square feet of space per child indoors, plus a ratio of one adult to five children. Nelligan has three assistants. “We provide a home-away-fromhome setting, where kids spend more working hours than at home,” she said. Nelligan pointed to a letter o f Aug. 3, 1978, from Linda Schumacher o f the Augusta Title 20 office, informing health and social services official Paul Buckwalter the school early childhood program should “actively investigate other funding.” Ap parently, this did not occur. Title 20 pays 60 per cent of day care costs, with the balance made up from federal CETA money, and a grant from the Episcopal United Thank GodTund. Building problems Other problems have plagued the Island school program. Crowding at the Indian Island school led to construction o f tempor ary early childhood classrooms in the gym nasium, prompting Sister Helen to observe that students were “crammed in like sar dines.” The picture brightened when tribal ad ministrator Andrew Akins informed the school board that a wing o f a new wooden building could be used by Laura Massey's program. (Her program will include those children five years old as o f Oct. 1 5.) The new building would be ready for occupancy by the time school opened in September, Sister Helen was told. Yet as Wabanaki Alliance went to press, the build ing was still without a roof, doors or windows. “We had been guaranteed that the log building (constructed by Young Adult Conservation Corps (YACC) as a bunkhouse) would be ready for occupancy by the first week o f August,” said Sister Helen, adding, “The last date I heard was Thanks giving. I don’ know if that’ true or false.” t s In preparation for the expected new space, the temporary rooms in the gym were dismantled by Manfred Francis, school cus todian. Already, the school board turned over $24,000 from its education budget for heating and plumbing the YACC-built building. “At this very moment we have no kin dergarten. And the administration, which is myself and the school board, are very con cerned because the children are not attend ing classes,” Sister Helen said. EDITOR’S FOOTNOTE: An interim kindergarten, taught by Laura Massey and assistant Adrian Francis, started Sept. 24, in St. Ann’ Church parish hall. Thirteen s children were registered for the two-shift program, 9-11 a.m., and 12-2 p.m. When classes eventually start in the new building, the day will begin with breakfast, about 8 a.m., and end at 2 p.m. An entirely new ele mentary school is incorporated in future planning for the tribe, possibly aided by a land claims settlement. CMIA offers home to Indians far from reservation PORTLAND — “Just being there," is the greatest service outreach worker Andrea (Angie) Mitchell feels she. performs for Indians in the Portland area. Mitchell and Linda Naples staff the southern Maine branch o f Central Maine Indian Association (CMIA). Their duties include advising Indians on legal matters, referring people to appropriate social agencies, helping people trace their back grounds, and providing emergency food, clothing, and fuel. CMIA has recently added an alcoholism counselor, George Paul, to its staff. Naples said she wishes she could offer more. “I would like to be able to offer emergency funds or a place to stay. The closest place for Indians in need now is jail,” she said. The two women serve around 300 families in the area. “ Most of the people who come in have been here for some time,” Mitchell said. “We’ dealing with city people.” re Like the families they serve, Mitchell and Naples have been away from the reservation a long time. Naples, who is a sister of Pleasant Point housing director Clayton Cleaves, said she has retained about 75 per cent o f her native Passamaquoddy tongue. With her two children Naples has settled into city life. “I try to hold on to a little of the reservation,” she said, but admitted, “you have to conform to white society.” Mitchell, sister o f George Mitchell of Indian Island said it took her a year and a half to adjust to life in the city. “ When you hit the pavement, you don’ see that friendly t smile (as on the reservation),” she said. “Having CMIA down here puts me in touch with Indian people. That's the beautiful thing about this job.” Her apartment has so many Indian artifacts, it’ called Angie’ s s tepee, she said. With six kids to support, Mitchell is now well-adjusted to life away from the reserva tion. She guessed it would take a while for her to adapt, if she moved back. “ I was thinking o f moving back, but my kids wanted to finish high school with their friends,” she said, adding, “One good thing about the reservation is you can always come home.” Indian art school gets new boss WASHINGTON — Jon C. Wade, an enrolled member o f the Santee Sioux Tribe, has been appointed President o f the Insti tute of American Indian Arts (IAIA) at Santa Fe, New Mexico, Acting Deputy Commissioner o f Indian Affairs Sidney Mills announced. Wade has been director o f the Division of Education Assistance for the Bureau of Indian Affairs since 1975. He had previously been Superintendent of the Phoenix Indian School and educational assistance officer for the BIA's Aberdeen. South Dakota area office. The art institute, started in 1962, is a post-secondary school serving Indians from all tribes. Wade. 40, completed course requirements for a Ph.D. in Educational Administration at the University of Minnesota in 1971. He received a Bachelor o f Science in Mathema tics at Northern State College, South Dakota and a Master of Arts from the Uni versity o f South Dakota. Wade was a member o f the Special Education Subcommittee o f the National Council on Indian Opportunity and from 1964 to 1966 served as Vice Chairman of the Flandreau Santee Sioux Tribe. CMIA outreach workers Angie Mitchell and lln d a Naples Demonstrate the enthnsiasm which keeps their office going. �Page 8 Wabanaki Alliance September 1979 Evacuees From War-torn France M r;. M o lly A rc h a m b a u d a n d h e r litt le s ix - y e a r t - o ld d a u g h ter . Jean, h a v e ju s t a r r iv e d f r o m t h e ir h o m e in R oy a n , F ra n ce, a n d a r e a t th e h o m e o i t h e t e r m e r s sister, M rs. W a lie A k in s in O ld T o w n . t o O ld T o w n f o r t h e d u r a t io n o i t h e w a r - p e r h a p s lo n t er. a r r iv e d in L is b o n fr o m w h ich p o r t t h e y s a ile d f o r A m erica. Mrs. A r c h a m b a u d a n d h e r d a u Eh t e r a r r iv e d o n t h e S. S. M a n h a t t a n a n d c a m e T ra v e lin £ f r o m J u ly fir s t by foo t, u u f o n , railw ay , a n d a m b u la n c e t h e y fin a lly Molly Spoiled Elk (Archambaud] and daughter Jean, as they appeared in Bangor Daily News story of July 23, 3940, in which Molly recounted their dangerous escape from Naziinvaded France. Her French journalist husband disappeared, and was never heard from again. Life of Spotted Elk tragic, triumphant By Steve Cartwright News photo of the woman who fled Nazioccupied France with six-year-old daughter INDIAN ISLAND — Perhaps all artists Jean. In the latter photo, Molly at 36 has a live with irony and contradiction. Molly face that reveals grief, pain and grim deter Spotted Elk led an extraordinary life of mination. She is still a woman o f remark outward success and inward fear and pain. able beauty, but there is no joy in her eyes. She suffered, even as she was hailed as a Molly’ daughter, Jean, now a resident o f s spectacular dancer. Tennessee, seems to have a few o f her More than a Penobscot Indian dancer of mother’ enigmatic qualities. She is a s grace and skill, Molly was a poet, singer, spiritual person, and says she can use writer of diaries, recorder of Indian medi certain psychic powers if she chooses. These cines and traditions, intellectual and moth mysterious powers may be inherited from er. It is through her daughter, Jean Indian forebears, passing through Molly. In (Archambaud) Moore, that this reporter was any case. Molly was strong willed and allowed a glimpse of a fascinating woman. capable in her own right. Mary became “Molly" in the Penobscot Jean and this reporter talked in an up language that has no “r,” and Spotted Elk stairs bedroom of a slightly decadent Indian was Molly’ Indian stage name. She was the s Island house that in its day was probably the daughter of Philamin and Horace Nelson of finest on the reservation. It has many carved Indian Island. Born Nov. 17, 1903. she died wooden features and a handsome staircase. 73 years later. Feb. 21. 1977. They were It is spacious yet practical — much larger stormy, often desperate years, with periods than the average Indian house o f the 19th of homelessness, bereavement and low self century, which was often only two or three esteem. rooms. Horace Nelson was a Dartmouth edu Jean has considered selling the property, cated engineer for the Sewall company of but has mixed feelings. It is her physical tie Old Town, and was twice governor o f the to the tribe, in some respects. And a tie to Penobscot tribe. He was the first Penobscot her mother, who was, candidly, a better to graduate from Old Town High School. dancer than she was a mother. Philamin, known as Meme, bore eight Jean’ eyes shine with the same deep s children: Mary Alice (Molly Dellis). Wini intelligence that is revealed in photos of fred (Apid) January, Francis, Mildred Molly. “ Mama was a really private person,” Akins, the late John Nelson, Eunice she recalled. “Any insight into the person I Baumann. Peter Nelson, and Horace Jr., had to gain after her death.” That is a who died at age six o f tomaine poisoning. surprising statement from an only child. Francis (Blun) Nelson, deceased, attended Mildred Akins, Molly's sister, recalled Columbia and the University o f Pennsyl that "she was a leader. She scrubbed floors vania, becoming a teacher. Peter became an to take her dancing lessons, down to engineer in Germany, and Apid, who now Bangor.” She made baskets as did her lives on the west coast, was in show business sisters. Actually, Mildred remembers, “she like her sister Molly. wanted to amount to something as a writer.” All these details may sound dry. But to Perhaps that was part o f her attraction to a look at a photo Molly Spotted Elk . . . is a journalist. moving, haunting experience. A young and Molly was a stubbornly independent very beautiful woman as a scantily clad child, who carved out a life for herself even dancer in Paris; then a 1940 Bangor Daily though it wasn't the life she dreamed about. caught a glimpse of a man who seemed to shadow her. The man resembled her father, she said. “My father was a very well known jour nalist. When he left — we had already left — he would’ been put in prison if he’ ve d been caught. He worked with the Boy Scouts and the Red Cross," Jean said. O f course, a free Paris journalist was a threat to the Nazi regime. Mildred Akins said she believed Archambaud died in a prison camp. Molly told a reporter in 1940: “He knows that I would try to get here and if he is alive will contact me when he can.” Molly plunged into her work with re newed intensity, perhaps to ease the loss of her husband. "Mama came home about once a year.” Jean said, adding without malice, "she was like a visiting aunt.” “And then she was home when I was 13 to 16, during her (mental) illness. She was a very shy. introverted person. And she'd been hurt a lot. She always felt her intelligence was low. She was brilliant; she would put it down. "She would refer to herself as ’ this thing’.” “My mother saved every letter I ever wrote her, and believe me that was a hell o f a lot. And in almost every one I was begging her to come," Jean remembered. The burden of Molly’ life weighed on her. But s still she was creative, productive. “She started making a dictionary. I believe possibly she was working on it in France. Some is in French and Penobscot, some is in English and Penobscot. Maybe she would have done more . . . but illness caught up with her.” Jean said. “ My mother may have been considered crazy, but she has a lot o f background on communism,” Jean said. In the 1940 inter view, Molly warned o f danger in the U.S. “A German newspaper man told us that for 10 years work had been carried on in America. The same thing is happening here that happened in European countries — the Fifth Column is at work. The communist groups are working even among the Indians in this country." she said, alleging a Nazicommunist alliance. America should clear out all people who are not naturalized citizens — if people do not wish to become citizens and bear arms for this country they should be sent out of the country,” she declared. In her old age, Molly crafted Indian dolls, some o f which are in the collection o f the Smithsonian Institution. “She refused to make any baskets; she had to make so many when she was little,” Jean said. Jean is married to a retired Air Force sergeant, Harvey Moore, from Whitney, Texas. He now works for Capitol Inter national Airways as a mechanic. They have one daughter, Barbara Jean o f Indian Island. A son. John, is dead. Jean has no intention o f moving home to Indian Island, but she continues the psychic legacy o f her mother, grandmother, all o f them healers. Commenting on the steel one lane bridge to Old Town, Jean said, “ My grandfather said when it was built, there goes paradise.” Jean has saved boxes and trunks full of papers and memorabilia from her mother’ s life. Some material dealing with Indian legends has been donated to the University of Maine. A dancer, poet, scholar, story teller...a healer who could not heal herself; Molly Spotted Elk died 16 days after the death o f her mother, who tripped and fell on the staircase. Besides dancing, she acted in silent movies. She had the lead in Paramount’ “The s Silent Enemy,” an Indian film. She per formed at nightclubs, concerts, recitals. She performed with the Provincetown Players, and in Keith’ vaudeville “Indian Revue.” s She acted in Shubert’ “ Broadway Nights.” s It was the Paris Colonial Exposition, Theatre De Danse, that set the course of Molly's later life. She tried to pursue her literary passion. She attended the University o f Pennsylvania after graduation from Old Town High School. She later collaborated with her husband, working in the French newspaper office. In Paris, the tragedy began to unfold. As a young dancer working “tous les soirs” in Paris, as one poster proclaimed, Molly met John Archambaud, political writer for Le Paris Soir. Fascinated with Indians — he often sketched them — John fell in love with the lithe young dancer. Happy matrimony was soon shattered by the war. As the Bangor Daily News headline put it: “Mrs. Molly Archambaud and Six-YearOld Daughter Flee From Royan on French Coast; Nearly Month o f Desperate Travel ing; France Looks to Britain for Release Says Wife of Paris Newspaperman.” Intertwined with Molly’ flight from s France with little Jean in tow, was a growing fear of communism, of dark forces that were taking over the world. In her last years, at Indian Island, Molly felt those forces were closing in. The July 23, 1940, Bangor Daily News in terview refers to a “month o f terror” for mother and daughter, "as (Molly) and her child made their way from their home at Royan on the French coast to Lisbon, Portu gal.” From Lisbon, they sailed to America and safety. Meanwhile. John Archambaud “left their home looking for work,” and that was the last Molly and Jean saw o f him. Or perhaps Frank Saulis, grandfather of Molly Spotted not. Jean said she has a couple o f times Elk. �Wabanald Alliance September 1979 N ew priest named at Island Poems of Spotted Elk Moon looks down on a White Fox! We knew we loved the night, its mystery, Its enchantment and its holiness. Remember, dear how we Climbed, panting and laughing, to the hill-top Above a town, and how, we would drop Our soul felt legacies on each small house twinkling In the valley and knew the joy they’ bring. d If, they, by unknown power could come true? And how the stars closed in, and then ... then you Would pick a handful for my crown, and we Forgot the little houses, lost in ecstasy. Alone You taught me to laugh at sorrow To smile, to feel theJieart o f life’ song s To breath in the essence of tomorrow Thru this whole day long. I climbed the hill tonight with Jean and tried to play, To tell her you were there up in the moon, with words you used to say ... We stayed until the lights went out and the clear night grew still. And as we walked back from the hill, the moon and you were still up there ... Yes, we loved the night, the day, the little house unknown We were to call our home, where curly heads like Jean to children grown Would frolic through its cheerful doors, and scented flower pathways, And you content with Jean, to ... thank’ G od for what he gave you ... always. s Always, the night, the moon, the day, with Faith, Love, and God, to cling again A hill, that same hill we climbed, hand in hand. To bless ... the legacy, you gave to me to shelter in a little house. Geegis That you must seek the mountain and the snow And grasp those worlds that gleam afar, So that our child, may glimpse a star And learn o f you, o f heights, so she may go Out to the rim o f life wide open sea Sicking, following you, the boundaries o f a life. Prayers are whispered that never leave the tongue For love is more than words upon the lips — Faith o f a small child’ rhythmic prayer s And still, and still — you love us ever, still — Her baby glee shall ever belong to me Her childhood laughter o f a girl And smiles o f luscious maidenhood Beloved, father will ever belong to you. And for us, the tears o f her maturity. I know not when the day shall be, I know not when our eyes may meet; What welcome you may give to me, Or will your words be sad or sweet, it may not be 'til years have passed, till eyes are dim and tresses gray; The world is wide, but love, at last, Our hearts, our souls, must unite someday. PORTLAND — The Chancery of the Roman Catholic Diocese has announced that the Rev. John D. Civiello will assume duties as priest of St. Ann’ parish, Indian s Island, starting in October. Father Civiello succeeds the Rev. David Cote, who has taken a job at Hinkley HomeFarm-School. Father Civiello is a Millinocket native who prepared for the ministry at St. John’ Seminary, Brighton, Mass. He was s ordained to the priesthood by Archbishop Peter L. Gerety in 1968, at St. Martin of Tours, Millinocket. For several months in 1968, Father Civiello was chaplain at Mercy Hospital, Portland. He was then appointed associate pastor o f St. John’ parish, Bangor. In 1977 s he became pastor o f St. M ary’ parish, s Westbrook. Penobscot man's conviction upheld despite racial slur ToJean If you try to forget (nay, you can ’ forget) t The lazy golden days dusted with sun. When birds flapped through our world, one by one. Rose calling to the air, their strong wings wet: If you try to forget the way the sun slid low Into the yonder world behind some hill or lake, And raveled, crimson clouds, burned in its wake — If you try to forget (nay, you can’ I know) t, Just how the moonlight sifted down between The restless clouds, and kissed our faces with its lights Or how the stars spilled down the sky at night And their winds, slipped among the trees unseen You can't forget, for we shall in silence speak one day And fired — so much to remember, with everything to say We knew, sweet. How nourished here through such long time We knew we gave our love sublime And gave that strength o f feeling deep and great. Above all human estimate! Poems by Molly Spotted Elk (Mary Archambaud), Penobscot, 1903-1977. Township principal s e e k s unity INDIAN TOWNSHIP — A new principal has been appointed at Indian Township elementary school, and she hopes to work for “ unity” and reflect the wishes o f the Passamaquoddy community. Sister Anselma Colford, o f St. Ann's Catholic Mission, has replaced Sr. Janet Campbell as principal o f the reservation school. An Augusta native. Sister Anselma has taught school since 1957, and has been a member o f the Sisters o f Mercy 25 years. “ I really have enjoyed working everywhere I’ ve been.” said the graduate o f St. Joseph’ s College, who holds a degree in elementary education. She has taught in Benedicta, and at Pleasant Point. The Indian Township school has been a focal point o f controversy in the Passama quoddy community, sustaining vandalism, theft, and a lack of confidence that led to some Indian parents removing their child ren to the nearby Princeton school. “ Can we just let our children learn, without (outside forces causing conflict),” Sister Anselma asked, in an interview. “What I understand from the parents is that they want their children to get an education with the least amount o f trauma possible. With the materials, the supplies, the staff — except for the classrooms — we should be able to provide the education parents want," she said, explaining that the school needs more space, and there are plans for expansion. “ I’ seen many positive things happen. ve There’ only one reason this group o f people s Page 9 Tribal planning session set WASHINGTON — A week long seminar on aspects of tribal planning is scheduled to be held in Seattle. Wash., Oct. 8-12. It will be co-sponsored bv Economic Development Administration, a branch of the U.S. Com merce Department and Administration for Native Americans, an arm of Health, Education and Welfare. PORTLAND — Remarks by an assistant district attorney in Penobscot County were not a “calculated resort to racial prejudice,” according to a ruling this month by Maine supreme court Judge James P. Archibald. The comments by assistant District At torney R. Christopher Almy referred to a Penobscot, Roy Dana, 23, from Indian Island, convicted on several charges in connection with a burglary. Almy said at Dana’ earlier trial that a doctor who testi s fied was a “fine eminent doctor,” while Dana was “an Indian . . . can you imagine how those two probably met and how they got along," Almy asked the jury. The doctor was Dr. John Ordway, chief psychiatrist at Eastern Maine Medical Center in Bangor. The supreme court ruling said trial Judge David G. Roberts acted properly in refusing a trial for Dana, an inmate at Maine State Prison in Thomaston. Ontario medicine man drowns picking rice A brief story in the New York Times of Sept. 16, noted that a 42-year-old Indian hired by Lake of the Woods Hospital in Kenora,- Ontario, drowned while gathering wild rice. Sept. 8. His job at the 200-bed hospital included ritual offerings and visions from the Great Spirit. George Councillor, the medicine man, was reportedly supported by doctors at the hospital. A new Indian healer may be hired, to serve 5,000 area Indians. Indian Olympics kick off at UMO ORONO — University o f Maine was the site of the first annual New England Indian Junior Olympics. Organized by Boston In dian Council (BIC), the competition drew participation from BIC, Mashpee, Brock ton, Mass., Indian Island, and Pleasant Point. Sr. Anselma Colford is together, and that’ for the good o f the s children," Sister Anselma said. One o f her problems since starting work Aug. 26, was that the teachers were paid for a full week in which they did not work, due to confusion about the schedule. “ My whole style o f administration is to be in touch with the people. I mean in touch with the community where I live,” Sister Anselma said. She said moving from her previous teach ing assignment at Pleasant Point to Indian Township was "not a difficult transition," partly because o f a joint school board. The three day event included numerous running heats, shot put. long jump, and softball throw. Boys and girls were divided into three competitive classes, respectively, according to age. Canoe racing and swimming had been planned, but difficulties with organization forced cancelation of these events until next year, according to Pleasant Point recreation director Linwood (Red) Sapiel. An expanded roster of games, including more traditional ly Indian events, is planned next year, when the meet will be held at Springfield College in Boston. Indian Island dominated the running with Sherri Mitchell, Chris Ranco. Kim Mitchell, Joseph Knapp, James Knapp, Debbie Clavette, and Greta Neptune taking top honors in most of the dashes. Flora Sapiel, Pleasant Point, and Derek Stevens, BIC. were first in the 12 and 13 year old class, while Robert Peters. Mashpee. outran the pack in most of the running events for 1 4 year-olds and over. In field events, Sherri Mitchell and Dennis Pehrson of Indian Island won the shot put event, while Dann Tiexera, Mashpee. Doug Pocknett, Mashpee. Sherri Mitchell. John Olson. BIC. Alan Lola, Indian Island, and Debbie Clavette reached the farthest marks in long jumping. Phillip Nicholas and James Sapiel. both from Pleasant Point, won the softball throwing events. A grant for S6.000 was used to defray traveling expenses. Visiting participants were housed at the Indian Island community building. The three day affair was topped off with an awards banquet. According to Red Sapiel, the most valuable experience for the kids was meeting the varsity players at the University. “The little kids were always looking up at them,” he said. �Page 10 Wabanaki Alliance September 1979 Old legend sheds light on Carter rabbit episode The following story was sent to us by Eleanor Sewell o f Albuquerque, New Mex ico. President Carter’ recent attack on a s rabbit, while out canoeing, brought to mind the old stories told to her by her mother, whose maiden name was Beavers. you’ just a fool. Keep on thinking, and, at re last, outwit the problem. But first identify your weakness. Don’ be your foes’best tool. t Be able to accomplish with emest wisdom as you rule. Now this rabbit is meddog. Yes, he can make much, much magic; never leave tracks when out walking, changes into gray grandfathers with long and venerable ears. His feats are filled with humor as he outwits the villians to cause the good to conquer and force the bad to yield. Now he can cause evil doers to feast in false domains, then he makes all this to vanish and leaves nothing they've obtained. His foes all sit and ponder how it has all disappeared. How they relished their illusions o f their grandeur that seemed to be all theirs beyond a doubt, until they woke and found it was all a dream the rabbit had created to delay their evil schemes and cause his foes to weaken as false dreamers always do. His humor and his wit combined and always followed through, like the shamans o f old. He created those illusions o f success; they felt secure in comfort, as I’ told, so they woke up in the ve morning, hungry, shivering in the cold. In the old time the Algonquin people of the sunrise country fought the cannibal stone giants 1200 years before Columbus thought he had found our land. The de struction of the giants by the legendary Gluskap has been told each generation by the grandfathers o f old. Tales told, retold by hundreds of his humor, and his valor and his magic in the forming o f the islands and the shores. Rock mountains and the rivers, which he rent to form their courses, all testify that Gluskap was the grandest giant of all. Everything that was, had spirit dwelling in its very being. Every creature, every feature of the earth and the sky above was the domain of gentle Gluskap, the benevolent, yet mighty, whose head could touch the stars, while never leaving those below. The people still revere the memory of this superhuman man, for his goodness and Now, the spirit o f rabbit still is living, old humor still remain to give some logic to the planet that surrounds us; how each creature ones say, and comes to help or hamper all fits the plan. The Wabanaki legends tell of the forces now in sway. He can change from good and first-born Gluskap, and how he an old man to a duck, from duck into canoe, fought his evil brother wolf before the birth in any way, at any time his need to win is of man. Gluskap made first man and due. And now to bring him up to date, woman from the wooden trunk of ash tree, grandmothers do believe, rabbit has come while the giant in eagle’ plumage sat on the again because o f their great need. Passamas rock near heaven, blowing wind to sail the quoddy, Penobscot both fight to save their sea. The legends of the spirit in wolf, and lands, while Presidents and governors play owl, or in beaver and in turtle still teach the law with card shark hands. Now is rabbit the s young to listen, and to learn to meet each attacker o f the President’ canoe? Does he problem with a method o f outwitting forces swim, and bite, and do all things rabbits that would seek control, and of the wily never do? He can, you know, if he but wills; spirits that teach the young to conquer all so Presidents, give thought to promises that weak and human foibles that make them fit you have made. They musn’t go for naught; for rabbit has appeared again. The people a role. are in need. It’s time to be creative, sir, and The rabbit, sly Mahtoqehs, gives ex amples of great wisdom and proves that honest as your creed. The rabbit has appeared again. Don’ strike out with your t ; imitating other creatures is no tool. Be crea tive, be inventive is his motto to the listeners. oar, the rabbit will outwit and win, as he has Never give up to the challenge when at first done before. KAKAKOK — These ravens have been with Joan Dana’ family at Peter Dana Point since s they were nestlings. They were given to the Dana’ by a woodsman, who found them after s felling a tree last Spring. Although they were free to leave, they followed the family when it moved to its new home. Andrew Dana is shown giving them lunch. If no one comes out to feed them, they fly down to the porch and knock on the door with their beaks. Dartmouth strives to serve Indians HANOVER, N.H. — Dartmouth College, founded in 1769 to teach area Indians, is again trying to help that population, after decades o f inattention. A report in a recent issue o f Talking Leaf, an Indian newspaper, said that Michael Vietnam veteran heads Indian organization ORONO — Central Maine Indian Asso ciation’ (CMIA) new president is a former s Penobscot County deputy sheriff and served in Vietnam with the U.S. Army, and happens to be a woman. Looking decep tively shy, Donna Loring, a Penobscot, brings a toughness to her job which she may well need. As lines begin to be drawn between Tribal Governors, Inc. (TGI) and Indian Island over who will control such programs as CETA and Maine Indian Transportation Association (MITA), CMIA appears likely to be caught in the crossfire. Loring said she hopes she can steer the off-reservation agency clear o f such con flicts. “I think if everyone can put their differences aside, TGI can go a long way,” she said. "CMIA has been overlooked since it was started,” she said. “I would like to see CMIA become better known.” She plans on “advocating with the governors” to be more aware of off-reservation Indians and their needs. A public relations position has been established to raise the agency’s profile. Although she has served for three years on the CMIA board, Loring said she is still overwhelmed with what she must learn for her new job. Buried under the paper work, she said she has had little time to think about the future. “I’ kind o f like to see d them provide more direct services; things you can see happening,” she said. CMIA has an emergency food allocation program, which Loring complains is a “oneshot deal.” She would like to expand the program, using government surplus food, so the program could be run on a “non-crisis” basis. Among CMIA’ other services are a s winter emergency energy program, North east Indian Family Support (NIFS) project, summer day camps, a prison GED and pre release counseling program, and providing technical assistance to other agencies. It was largely through CMIA’s assistance that Northeast Indian Cultural Awareness Train ing (NICAT) program was funded. One o f CMIA’s primary functions is referring people to other agencies which can help them. Three outreach workers are based in CMIA’ Orono office, with two s more at the Portland office. New CMIA president Donna Loring with executive director Melvin [Tom] Vicaire. Donna Loring has taken the reins o f CMIA at a time when budget cuts threaten the need for expanded services, and political pressures are mounting on all sides, but then, with her background, pressure is nothing new to her. Dorris, chairman o f Dartmouth’ Native s American Studies, is optimistic. Dorris talked about the “courageous position” of college president John Kemeny, who recom mitted Dartmouth to furthering Indian education. Originally a men’ school, co-ed Dart s mouth has dropped its long standing Indian logo after student protest. Dartmouth has hosted four conventions in recent years, on Indian land claims, Indian treaties and international law, tribal leadership, Indian arts. Dorris said Indian graduates are working on a variety o f things, from "Maine land claims to consulting for Hollywood film makers, but still no chiefs.” Wampanoags plan antinuke vigil MASHPEE, Mass. — A group of Wampanoag Indians plan to demonstrate their opposition to the construction o f the Seabrook, N.H., nuclear power plant, on Oct. 6, at Seabrook. A statement in the Mashpee Wampanoag newsletter, Mittark, said: “The traditional and spiritual leaders and elders o f the Wampanoag Nation, following the Instruc tions o f the Creator to protect and care for our Sacred Mother the Earth, invite all native, natural-world people to stand with us. “ We invite all traditional native leaders and elders to join us in the creation o f a spiritual encampment at the Seabrook occupation October 6, to make our presence and our message known and felt there and throughout the world. In accordance with our spiritual instructions, we must have no weapons, no violence, no alcohol or drugs. Our commitment to peace must be as dedicated as our commitment to our Mother Earth and the unborn generations,” the statement said. �Wabanaki Alliance September 1979 % Page 11 Indian bus service told to repay questionable expenses By Bill O’Neal ORONO — Maine Indian Transportation Association (MITA) has been granted a six month extension of funding, provided it re imburse the government for monies alleged ly mismanaged. The reimbursement man date resulted from an audit of MITA which showed failure to document some of its early expenditures and the use of MITA funds for ineligible purposes. Nicholas Sapiel, Jr., MITA director during that period, was sub sequently fired. Sources close to MITA said it was initially estimated that Tribal Governors, Inc. (TGI), which sponsors MITA, would have to reimburse more than 515,000. A current review, however, has turned up sufficient documentation to reduce the payback figure to $4,000-55,000, according to the source. Federal Highway A dm inistration (FHWA), which, awarded MITA its twoyear, $362,213 grant, is conducting a review of the missing receipts and other docu ments. Ray Pomeroy, FHWA contract director, expressed confidence that MITA would have little difficulty getting the $20,000 extension money. According to MITA director Lorraine Nelson, MITA has also received a federal Title 20 grant through Maine Department of Human Services. The grant will run on a three month trial basis, and then be for an "It's still at the talking stage,” he said. The possible localization o f MITA con indefinite period, if no problems arise. Ex plaining the trial period, Pomeroy said, tinues a pattern which began with Indian Island's takeover o f its own CETA pro "They ran into the problem on documen tation here, too,” again referring to the grams, and reflects a deteriorating relation ship between the Island and TGI. Penobscot period prior to Nelson’ directorship. s With the expiration of the FHWA grant, tribal Gov. Wilfred Pehrson was recently M ITA’s main hope for funding is a United fired as TGI president and reportedly is not attending TG I meetings. Metropolitan Transportation Administra According to Ranco, letting each group tion (UMTA) section 18 grant administered handle its own contract would reduce through the Maine Department of Trans portation. The money will be distributed administrative overhead and permit better through regional offices in approximately control over the individual programs. William Seekins. who is doing a five-year eight regions throughout the state. Each regional office will award the grants on a planning projection for MITA, favors main competitive basis. Whether TGI will apply taining “one central figure,” feeling it could for the contracts for its five constituents or better manage intricate government regu they will apply as individual entities is still a lations. Seekins is a consultant for Hancock County Regional Planning Committee, question. A DOT report on MITA recommended which will also be in charge of allocation of Section 18 funds to transportation agencies that administrative control o f MITA be taken over by the five reservation and off- in this region. Even if MITA is able to obtain Section 18 reservation groups using it. A TGI meeting was scheduled at press time to decide funds, Pomeroy said it would have to match 45 per cent of its operations allocation and whether or not to decentralize MITA. 15 per cent of its capital improvements allo Michael Ranco, Penobscot community cation. He said that CETA, revenue sharing planner, said Indian Island is writing its monies given to the state for Indian own contract, in case TGI decides to programs, and Department of Indian decentralize. According to Ranco, TGI Affairs money could be used to match the would become a conduit for money, but federal dollars. would have little to do with administration. Pomeroy predicted that Section 18 money would not be enough for M ITA’ budget. He s predicted that even if they find other sources o f outside funding, ‘‘ tribes are still going the to have to come up with some money (of their own).” The D O T study also noted that delays in payment of bills by MITA were causing problems with local businesses and recom mended that each of the five agencies pay bills directly, being reimbursed later by MITA. TGI rejected this suggestion. If TGI decides to turn over administrative control to each reservation and off-reservation group, payment would be made at the local level. CMIA and Indian Island, together, are slated to receive 40 per cent of the Section 18 money, with the two Passamaquoddy reservations and Association of Aroostook Indians picking up 60 per cent. One possible source of revenue under consideration is charging fares for riding the MITA buses. Seekins pointed out that people covered by agencies contracting with MITA would be issued ride tickets. Pomeroy added that if D O T funds are involved, MITA will have to verify that Indians and non-Indians alike are being served. Accord ing to Nelson, non-Indian organizations such as the Independent Living Center in Bangor have contracted for MITA services. Township N otes By Kathy Tomah Area Correspondent On Tuesdays and Thursdays at the community building at 40-hour Crash Injury Management course <C.M.I.) is being conducted for Indian Township through Washington County Vocational Technical Institute (WCVTI). Judy Clark, a registered nurse, and Donald B. Hampton, Downeast Regional Coordinator for Emergency Medical Serv ices are conducting this course. Also, the assistant instructors from the Princeton rescue squad are volunteering their time. Sonja Dorn, a registered nurse from Indian Township, contacted these people for these sessions. The first few sessions were for training of CPR (Cardio-pulmonary resuscitation), the method for reviving a person suffering cardiac arrest. The students will also be instructed in childbirth, treating stroke and • shock victims, bandaging to control or stop bleeding, treating fractures and splinting, administering oxygen, psychological first aid (which is very important), and extrica tion from a vehicle after an accident. They are being taught basic life support, so, when an emergency arises, they will be able to stabilize a person prior to his being transported to the hospital. When these people have completed the (CIM) course, they can apply to become licensed ambulance attendants. The certify ing agency is WCVTI. People taking this course are: Larry Lester, Anthony Cote, Joe Socobasin, Nicholas Dana, Rose Neptune, Martha Barstis, Allen Dorn, Lawrence LaCoote, Karen Buchanan, Kathy Brady, Raphael Sockabasin, Russell Roy, Doris Chapman, Peta MacArthur, Reggie Newell, Rick Anderson, Mathew Dana, Cheryl Bacon, Louis Dorogi, Paula Bryant, Sherry Beach, Carl Nicholas, Jr., David Tomah, Sonja Dorn, Darryl Nicholas, Norman Nicholson. This is a federal and state-funded pro gram, approved through the Department of Transportation in Augusta. The main ob jective is to upgrade emergency and medical service throughout the state o f Maine. Donald B. Hampton works in Washing ton and Hancock counties. Anyone interest ed in having this course presented in these counties can contact him at Emergency Medical Services in Lubec or go through WCVTI. VA booklet available New reporter Wabanaki Alliance is pleased to add Kathy Tomah to its growing list of area corres pondents. Tomah was born in Woodland and is a graduate of Woodland High School. She has lived at the Township for 10 years and has one son, Eddie. Her journalistic experience includes a photography course taken at Washington County Vocational Technical Institute [WCVTI]. TOGUS — A Veterans Administration booklet explaining a variety of benefits offered to veterans and their dependents is available for $1.50. The 71 page information booklet can be obtained by contacting the Superintendent of Documents, U.S. Gov ernment printing office, Washington, D.C. 20402. Facts on job and education services, as well as medical and other benefits, are explained in the booklet. M aine’ toll free s VA information telephone number is 1-800452-1935. This newspaper was notified of the VA booklet by a reader and veteran, Katherine L. Smith of Chevy Chase, Md. WHEELIE — Bernard Joseph Dana, nine, of Pleasant Point, exhibits biking skill in front of Passamaquoddy tribal building. Means opposes money for Black Hills PIERRE. S.D. — Russell Means, spokes man for radical Indians, said at a recent Sioux meeting here that a 5105 million settlement for the Black Hills — former Indian land — should be voted down. Means said that the land taken from the Sioux in 1877 was, “Our graveyard, our church, the center of our universe and the birthplace of our people ... (it is) everything we hold sacred and dear, and this is the reason it is not for sale." According to the Fort Laramie Treaty of 1868, three fourths of adult male members of each tribe must vote to accept the settle ment. That treaty gave the Black Hills to the Sioux in perpetuity, but after the discovery oi gold. Indians were told to give up their land or starve. Bureau of Indian Affairs official Robert Pennington, asked if the Sioux would get their land back if they turned down the monetary settlement, responded: “That’s obviously a key question and I haven’ the t foggiest idea.” Not one of the six tribal chairmen favored the monetary settlement. “If we don’ unite t to regain our land, then we’ going to have re traded the land which makes us sovereign for a few rusty car bodies and a few good drunks. We would ask all tribes to join with us in not selling that land, said Elijah Whirl wind Horse, Oglala Sioux chairman. �Page 12 Wabanaki Alliance September 1979 Houlton Indians remembered By James D. Wherry The families o f the Houlton Band of Maliseets and Micmacs have, over the years, lived at various locations which have been known as the Houlton Indian Reserva tions. The history of these reservations presents a fascinating story as told by the elders of the Houlton Indian community. The elderly people remain the primary and the most interesting source on historical information on Aroostook Indian people. At all times, confirmation o f details in the history is provided by town reports and church records. One such story begins in the early years immediately following the turn o f the century. It is individual members o f the Tomah family who figure importantly in developments during those years. Today, Louise Polchies (who was bom a Tomah) remembers aspects o f Houlton life during the first years o f the 20th century. Bom in 1893, she maintains a very clear mind and a fit body, performing much the same household tasks as someone half a century younger. She remembers that around 1901, her parents (Frank and Catherine Tomah) moved their family into an apartment over a store in Paddy Hollow. As a young girl, her earliest recollections of Indian neighbors are of the John Stevens family who lived next door. Louise does not remember well what her father, Frank, did to earn a living during this period. But, sometime early on, Frank Tomah got a job working for the Houlton Water Company. Louis Sappier, who was also living nearby, may have been a help to Frank in finding this job because Louis had been with the Water Company since about 1900. These jobs with the Water Company must have been subject to seasonal lay-offs, for we find Frank Tomah and Louis Sappier occasion ally picking up work with the town of Houlton. The Frank Tomah family lived in the Paddy Holly apartment for five or six years and then moved to the Foxcroft Road. Here, Frank Tomah built a clapboard house on the unused pasture land of the Kenney Farm. By 1906, the Foxcroft Road settle ment developed into a small Indian settle ment with five families living there from about 1906-1908. By this time, Frank Tomah and his wife Catherine (Francis) had Poetry Untitled firefly flickery high land once more, a spot in the sky Louis Sappier, Frank Francis, Noel Bear, John Bernard, Thomas Joseph, John Stevens and Louis Sopiel had houses on the County Road Indian Reservation. The sources o f income were fairly varied for these families. At least, Louis Sappier and Frank Tomah worked for the Houlton Water Company. Thomas Tomah and Thomas Joseph worked at the lumber mill which was located on the “Flats” (Bridge Street). The mill was owned by a Wilson. Peter Tomah worked at the woolen mill which was located along the Meduxnekeag River. Peter was later promoted to foreman. Many o f the women and older girls worked as house cleaners for local households. Many o f the young boys and girls, who had not started working, attended school at the Bowdoin Street Schoolhouse (where the Association o f Aroostook Indians now has INDIANS IN HOULTON — This picture was taken in circa 1906 at the Foxcroft Road its offices). Many o f the men and the older boys who had quit school received jobs as “Indian Reservation.” Depicted in picture left to right are Sarah Tomah, Phillip Tomah, Louise Tomah, Elizabeth Tomah, Benny Tomah, Sarah Atwin, Simon Atwin, Tom Bear, day laborers for the town o f Houlton. And Frank Tomah, Tom Forlis [Fallis], Sappier Sappier, Frank Francis, Louis Francis, Agnes always the Fall harvest presented seasonal [Francis] Forlis, Mary [Paul] Francis, Mrs. Sappier, Leo Tomah, and Peter Tomah. All were employment picking potatoes. At all times Maliseets except for Tom Forlis who was a Micmac from the Miramichi Valley, and who o f the year, the men could supplement their had married a Maliseet girl, Agnes Francis. [Photo courtesy Brenda Polchies] income by making axe handles which sold for five cents a piece, and potato baskets which sold for 25 cents to 50 cents a basket. seven children; Peter, Benjamin, Leo, depicted in this photograph but who was The raw materials for these products were Phillip, Louise, Sarah and Elizabeth. Frank not a resident is Tom Bear. Tom Bear is relatively easy to obtain for it has been the Tomah’ brother, Thomas Tomah and his described by those who remember him as a long-held custom that Indians can take the s wife Nellie Paul also had a house on the hermit who lived and hunted in the ash from anyone’ property. Most of the s Foxcroft Road and they had six children; woods o f Aroostook County. But his men had rifles and they would bring in fresh Charlie, Gabe, Andrew, Grace, Julia and newphew, Noel Bear, lived on the Fox game which was shared among the Indian Bessie. Catherine Tomah's brother, Frank croft Road and Tom would on occasion families. Joseph Francis who lived not far “Weasel” Francis and his wife, Mary “Mali come to town for a visit. O f the individuals way on the “Flats” supported his family Beliceman” Paul, lived there with their depicted in the photograph, only Leo with a fairly unique form o f employment. He children, Gary, Louis and Agnes. Their Tomah and Louise Tomah Polchies are still played the country fiddle and his services daughter Agnes had in 1903 married a alive. were apparently much in demand in the Micmac man, Thomas Forlis, and they Around 1908, the Foxcroft Road Indian Houlton area. Many o f the older people continued to live with Frank and Mary Reservation was abandoned and following remember Noel Bear as being pretty clever. Francis. Mary Francis’ aunt, Mrs. Alice the lead o f Frank Tomah, the men built new He was able to continue making his living s Sappier lived in the fourth house with her houses on land just east o f the Houlton Pro the old “Indian Way.” Louise Polchies two sons, Louis Sappier, and Sappier testant Cemetery along the County Road. remembers with fondness that her father, “Double Sap” Sappier, and her two grand This new settlement which received the Frank Tomah, worked hard to provide a children from her daughter Catherine’ first addition o f several more Indian families decent living for his family and was reward s marriage, Simon Atwin and Sarah Atwin. In became known as the County Road Indian ed with the respect o f his Indian and nonthe last house, lived Catherine Sappier with Reservation. Louise Tomah Polchies re Indian neighbors. her second husband Noel Bear and their members her father, Frank, building a fairly EDITO R’ NOTE: James Wherry is S children, Lawrence, Joseph, Josie and Mary. substantial house within a grove o f white currently compiling a history for the The photo taken on the Foxcroft Road birch trees. Their are still many people alive Association o f Aroostook Indians (AAI) in Indian Reservation about 1906 depicts some today who remember the beauty and Houlton. A native o f Pittsburgh, Pa., he o f the people who lived on the Foxcroft pleasantness o f this location. Besides Frank holds a master’s degree in anthropology Road at that time. One person who is Tomah, the families o f Thomas Tomah, from University o f New Brunswick. Aroostook County In beauty, we North American Indians search. In beauty, we seek. In beauty we find My people. Seek and ye shall find. Tilly West Ashland Friend frost leaves etched in glass sparkled away in sun’ bath s wart toad fat, short toad hunched in earth blinking sea gulls sail home after a long fish winging so slow their belly’s full moss gree dotted red flower wet stones earth smells were our joy Red Hawk 1975 My brother is in need o f a friend So I wish I could get on down there where he’ crying by the river s head in his hands tonight. The sky is weeping drops o f grey for him lost in the river’ flow s Lord knows the hills are layin’ layin' out to hold him and in the forest the wind can’ freeze his t tears. He won't know but I’ gone on down ve there where he’ crying by the waters s tonight, cause I’ in the hills gone down to hold him m and in the gentle evening rain in the warmth o f my friend’s tears. Nancy D. Hanson Saco C’MON, LET’S SLIDE — Faye Gabriel, a teacher aide at Indian Township’ kindergarten s program, proves that grown-ups can zoom down the slide, too. �Wabanaki Alliance September 1979 Page 13 Overruns trigger 50 per cent layoff PLEASANT POINT — Lack o f funds has forced Pleasant Point Housing Authority to lay off 50 per cent o f its force account employees and abandon 10 o f 40 Phase IV houses, planned for completion within the year. Housing Authority director Reuben (Clay ton) Cleaves said Department o f Housing and Urban Development (HUD) will decide in October whether to grant additional funds for the project’ completion. The s amount to be requested has not been determined, Cleaves said, although the over run amounted to 20 per cent Additional funds have been granted once before for the project, although only half of what was requested. “ With closer observa tion by HUD, all this could have been avoided,” Cleaves said, adding, “It’ not all s HUD’ fault.” s In other housing business, Cleaves said attorney James Mitchell is “about 80 per cent finished” with his research in bringing suit against IBEC, an Oklahoma-based contractor, which built an earlier phase of housing at Pleasant Point in 1974. Defects later turned up. Aroostook News By Brenda Polchies x Area Correspondent HOULTON — A general membership meeting of the Association of Aroostook Indian (AAI) was held Sunday. Aug. 12, to hold elections for officers and board of directors. The meeting was conducted at the AAl's new offices located at the Bowdoin Street School with members from Caribou, Presque Isle, Ashland, and Houlton in attendance. Maynard Polchies, President, officially opened the meeting after which Commissioner of Indian Affairs Charles Rhynard conducted the meeting on a parlia mentary procedure basis. The following NEW HOUSING is under construction at Pleasant Point, where Fred Francis, on ladder, officers and board of directors have been elected to serve two year terms: Maynard and Ron Segien, are employed in the 40-unit federally funded project. Polchies. President; Joyce Tompkins, VicePresident; John Joseph, Treasurer; Dora Phillips, Secretary; Clair Sabatis, Russell Sacoby, Joseph Tomah, Paul Tomah, Fred Tomah, Leonard Sabatis, Mary Joseph, Betty Joseph, and Mary London. One noticeable aspect was lack of board membership representation from northern (Continued from page 5) is glad to be going back to the reservation, Aroostook County. The general membership tion. He now has a well-paying job, we have but wishes she didn’ have to. What t session began at 1:30 p.m. and continued a nice home. After a year o f struggling we confusion this must cause in an 8-year-old into early evening when an official board of were finally getting ahead a little. When he mind. Hopefully, we will have something directors meeting was held. Friends and comes home Sept. 21 — he is an engineer on settled by Christmas. guests were welcome during the general a boat— we are going to the Choctaw Reser Walk in Harmony, membership meeting and refreshments were vation in Philadelphia, Mississippi to see Ruth (Davis) Johnson served. about housing, jobs, etc. We will be leaving P.S. Please continue to send Wabanaki. No * * * his family and relatives. He does not wish to matter where I move I will have my mail A joint project by the Citizens for Youth move back to Maine righ^now. forwarded, and I need news from home, and the Association of Aroostook Indians is I really don't know why I’ writing this. I now, more than ever! m being implemented for this coming school hope someone benefits. I ask all parents to One more thing, as o f Friday, Aug. 31, all year. A total of 40 children from the ages of consider carefully before moving away from but two white teachers have resigned from 5 to 14 are being involved in a preventative the reservations. Find out about the school Uniontown school system. No others have afterschool recreational and tutorial pro systems. My husband thought he was been hired. gram dealing with delinquent and other bringing us to a better life. But, when we referred youth. This project will work closely made the decision to move to Alabama there UPDATE: Kristin Johnson’ aunt, Ruth s with the Juvenile Intake Division, Mental was no adequate housing at home, and we Davis o f Indian Island, informed Wabanaki Health and Corrections; MSAD 29; MSAD did not know this would happen here. Alliance that the Johnson family has tenta 70; the Courts, and the local police de I’ cried as much as I can cry now. I have tively decided to move to a southern ve partment. The facilities o f Camp Little to get busy and find somewhere to live away Choctaw Indian reservation, where they Ponderosa will be used along with town from Uniontown. received a warm reception. Kristin will not facilities such as the library, recreation To everyone who loves me, please help be sent to live with Mrs. Davis, at Indian center, school facilities, and AAI counseling Kristin to overcome her homesickness. She Island. services. This preventative program is in the form o f animals, specifically horses, that the children will be working with and taking care of after school hours between 3 and 6 Indian child caught in racial conflict at school State S eek s R elea se From Island School C a se OLD TOWN — The Maine Attorney G eneral’ office has filed a motion in U.S. s District Court to be removed as a defendant in a suit filed to bar the teaching o f religion at the Indian Island School. Four Penobscot Indians brought the suit and included the state as a co-defendent, along with the Island school board and principal, state education Commissioner H. Sawin Millett.and Edward DiCenso, super intendent o f the Maine Indian Education. In its motion the state questioned whether it had a requirement to test constitutionality o f teaching at the school and, therefore, was liable for failure to make such tests. Hugh Calkins, representing the plaintiffs and the Maine Civil Liberties Union (MCLU) in the case, said he didn't feel determining constitutionality “should be the responsibility o f individual parents in every school district.” The state’ motion for dismissal has been s postponed until October, pending return of the judge hearing the case. Calkins said that even if the state is released from the case, suit will be continued against the remaining defendants. Although officials at the school have proposed a “moral guidance” course as an ' alternative to religion class, Calkins said he has not been able to learn anything specific about the course. “ We don’ know what the t curriculum is. We are trying to find out what the school has done,” he said. “We may have to use court discovery procedures” to find out, he said. According to Calkins, after the state’ s motion is resolved, he will proceed with the case in court. p.m. Since more juvenile offenses are occurring after school hours, it is felt by everyone that if these delinquent children are occupied by school during the daytime and are occupied after school by this program, the children would be too exhaust ed to want to cause trouble. There is a full schedule o f equitation lesson plans in beginning, intermediate, and advanced jumping; tutorial services are available; arts and crafts will be implemented, and an Indian Culture program is planned. The main services the Assoication o f Aroostook Indians will be providing is transportation and two counselors. * * * Daniel Mitchell o f Indian Island, Old Town, would very much like to get ahold of some good quality Aroostook County ash logs. Mr. Mitchell is planning to spend some long winter evenings making baskets in his shop but he has come upon the problem of finding very few ash logs in Penobscot County and what he does find, are o f very poor quality. Can anyone in Aroostook County accomodate him? He is willing to compensate for the ash. Mr. M itchell’ s address is P.O. Box 126, Indian Island, Old Town, Maine 04468 — Tel. 827-7494. * * * Louie Paul is new Alcoholism Counselor for the Association o f Aroostook Indians at Houlton. He is available to assist clients who have problems with alcohol and drugs. He can be reached at 207-532-7317 Ext. 21, Monday through Friday. SAD 29 in Houlton has been awarded a federal grant to meet the special educational needs o f Indian children during the coming school year. The local district has received $10,329 to fund a tutorial program for Indian students, grades 7-12. Mark Chaplin has been hired to perform tutorial duties and other related aspects dealing with Indian children in junior high and on the high school level. Indian students residing in Houlton, Hammond, Littleton, and Monticello who have problems or need assistance with schoolwork, are encouraged to contact Chaplin at Houlton High School, Tel. 532-6551 or drop in to visit at the library. State loses jurisdiction in manslaughter case BANGOR — The accused killer of an Indian Island man, in a manslaughter incident alleged at Indian Island, must be tried by federal authorities, and not the state courts, according to a ju dge’ s ruling. Justice Edward Stem ruled in Penob scot County superior court, Aug. 31, that the accused, William A. Holmes, 22, a reported non-Indian, does not come under state jurisdiction because Indian reservations are subject to federal juris diction under the Major Crimes Act. Holmes is charged with killing Adrian M. Loring, 29, a Penobscot Indian. The state argued through Deputy Atty. Gen. John Gleason that the case against Holmes should be stayed until an appeal of another case involving jurisdiction, known as the Sockabasin-Dana case, is resolved. The state has appealed to the U.S. supreme court a unanimous state supreme court decision in SockabasinDana that upheld federal jurisdiction in “ Indian country.” Both the Holmes case, and the Socka basin-Dana case which involved an arson conviction at Indian Township, are significant because they reinforce the Penobscot-Passamaquoddy claim to 12.5 million acres o f northern Maine. �Page 14 Wabanaki Alliance September 1979 Indians had few crime waves in early times By William B. Newell In order to understand why crime was nearly absent among American Indian tribes, before the coming o f the white man to America, it is first o f all necessary to know something o f the background of the various Indian groups with reference to their social life and their moral and ethical standards. When we have done this we can appreciate better the truth o f the statement that crime played a small part in the life of the Indian. One o f the principal theories upon which man’ life, with relation to his s social conduct towards his fellowman was based, among Indians, was the fact that “Man’ rights and privileges never exceeded s his duties and responsibilities.” In modern times our point of view o f this question differs from that o f the Indian in that we think only o f our rights and privileges and shun our duties and responsibilities. If we cannot look upon one as being just as important as the other then there is bound to be discord and friction among men. Greed, selfishness, and inequality will develop resulting in the breeding o f deceit, trickery, unfaithfulness, and the desire to secure unto one's self advantages over one’ s fellowman in everything in life. This perhaps is the one outstanding cause o f most crime that exists in society today. The fact that this cause did not exist in Indian society accounts to a certain extent for the absence of crime. Great criminologists today admit that greed, jealousy, and the desire to have more than our fellowman breeds more crimethan any one other cause. Sharing resources Naturally if men assume the position that they are not interested in having more than their fellowmen then there is never any cause for disagreement among men. It is said that among Indians when one Indian was hungry, in a nation, all were hungry, and when one Indian had plenty all had plenty. There was no question o f maldistri bution of wordly goods or o f economic comforts. In order that they all share in the benefits o f the various economic sources all participated in securing economic benefits for the entire group and not for any one single individual. To illustrate how strong this trait of character was among Indians it has been told many times how individuals meeting with misfortune became imme diately the responsibility o f the entire group and if a man’s house should bum down it would be immediately rebuilt and furnished before anything else was done for the group. The Jesuit fathers tell us that if an accident should happen to a hunter’ equipment, s such as the breaking of his bow or gun the nearest man to him would insist that he accept his gun or other equipment. Even if a man should-lose his coat or jacket his nearest neighbor would feel that it was his duty to see that this man had a coat, a jacket, a gun, or any other thing that was deprived of him through an accident or mis fortune. Even in gambling, which most tribes loved, it is a well known fact that after an individual had won all o f his opponent’ s wordly goods he usually always distributed everything that he won to all the losers keeping nothing for himself. Among some tribes it was a part o f their religion to always make it a point to return all gambling gains. Crime did not exist But in addition to the fact that this ethical standard accounted for the absence o f much crime among North American peoples there were many other reasons why crime did not exist among Indians. Criminologists try to prove that much o f our crime today is due to the pathological disintergration of men tality. Psychologists in their research among criminals, delinquents, and “mental de ficients,” show that a large percentage o f all criminal types are not mentally responsible for their actions when committing crime. If the mental condition of man is largely responsible for his criminal tendencies, then we can definitely say, that here was a very deciding factor in favor o f the absence of crime among Indians. In other words, practically all early writers of American Indian life tell us that their observations clearly indicated that there was a complete absence o f diseases that had any tendency to destroy or weaken the mind o f man in America. They speak o f the total absence of insane or idiotic among them. The neurotic was, o f course, unknown among Indians, and Indian peoples have been spoken o f as being the least emotional o f all races. Civili zation today is faced with a new threat to its survival and that is the vast number o f neurotics that have developed during the past generation. The cause o f this, as we well know, is the speed with which we are asked to keep pace in modem life. We are told that at the rate we-are going, in another 100 years one half o f our population will be taking care o f the other half who will be insane. One authority who is not so optimistic, has gone so far as to say that in another 100 years we will all be insane. Well, if it is a weak mind that causes crime then in time we will all be criminals. But, the interesting point about this discussion is the fact that there were no mental diseases among Indians and consequently no crime from this cause. Above all, there were no sexual diseases among the American peoples until such diseases were introduced to this country by the Europeans. The absence of the criminally insane, the mentally deficient, irresponsibles, and neurotics, most certainly was a very great factor in keeping down the This then accounts for not only the absence of crime but also for the fact that there were no houses o f correction, prisons, courts, codes of law, police officers, and all the other departments that go to make up modern jurisprudence. It might be well to mention also that there were no homes for old people because the American Indian cared for his aged. Neither was tthere any orphan asylums because children were never disowned or abandoned. Among practically every Indian tribe in North America there existed a single moral standard with reference to sex relationship which is significantly different from the European dual standard which exists today with regards to the moral conduct o f man and wife. Witchcraft, adultery Lewis H. Morgan tells us that there were only three major crimes among Indians that were universally known, witchcraft, murder, and adultery. Thieves and liars -were practically unknown among Indians. These were considered great criminals among them, and among many tribes a liar suffered death as a punishment for lying and among others his house was burnt together with all his belongings. We are fortunate that this crime is not considered so great among modern peoples because if it were few o f us would have any houses left. It was also considered a lie among the American peoples to not keep one’ promise when s given. Thieves were practically unknown among Indians and according to their ethical code a thief was considered the lowest o f mortals. His punishment usually was exile or ostracism. Consequently these crimes were not committed. With the encroachment o f European morals and ethics in the life o f the Indian it is expected that the Indian will change, and in fact has already changed to a great extent, but it would be a wonderful thing if some o f these sterling qualities that existed in the ethical culture, before it was contam inated by European ethics and morals, could be retained by him. Father Pierre number o f crimes that might be committed by Indians from these causes. Another factor that would account for the absence o f crime among Indians besides their natural virtues o f libertfjism, truthfulness, absence o f dissimulation, and other virtues, was their ideas o f personal rights and property rights. I have already intimated that their economic wants were always considered as being communistic and that what one Indian had they all had, but I did not mean to imply that respect for the personal property o f each individual was not present in their life. As a matter o f fact, personal property rights did exist and no Indian would think o f infringing on his neighbor’ personal rights or belongings. s Their wants were few and their possessions so small that there never was much occasion for one Indian to desire the things o f others. Furthermore, it was a part of their inborn nature not to have this feeling of desire and greed for things that others have, that we moderns are possessed with. Use of drugs Other factors that exist in modern society, and which it is claimed are specific causes of crime, and which did not exist in Indian society, was the use o f alcoholic beverages, drugs, and narcotics. There were no drugs or drinks used among Indians that would in any way disturb man’ reason or ability to s know what he was doing at all times. The one narcotic that the Indian did use, tobacco, was generally used for ceremonial purposes and we have reason to believe that it was never used to excess by any Indian, at least not to the extent that it would in any way impair his sense o f reason. Peyote was not universally used in North America and prior to 1850 was unknown to Indians north of Mexico. "Tests thus far made indicate that it possesses varied and valuable medicinal properties.” Peyote is not a violent drug and seems to have no physical effect on man’ constitution. s If we analyze the reasons advanced by modern criminologists for the prevalence of crime in modern society and then apply these reasons to American aboriginal society we find that they do not fit in the picture and are not a true basis for crime in Indian life. Perhaps after all the criminologists are correct in their deductions, and their reasons given for the excessive amount of crime in present day society are exactly correct, since these causes for crime did not exist in aboriginal life, and the fact that there was a scarcity of crime among the aboriginal peoples o f America. Biard, the Jesuit priest, exclaimed over 300 years ago, “For in truth these people are not thieves and would to God that the Christians who go among them would not set them a bad example in this respect.” Does civilization pay? A study o f Indian culture might point the way to the future peace and happiness o f the world in helping us to better understand how the Indian eliminated crime and then follow in his footsteps. If we analyze the present world situation, with reference to social and moral conditions, especially with reference to crime and human relations, we have to admit that European nations are even as barbarous, cruel, and inhuman as they were when America was first discover ed. Their greed for power and riches and control, their lack o f appreciation o f human life, illustrated in the slaughter of Jews and Ethiopians by Germans and Italians, their intolerance for the thoughts and rights of others, their mad rush to invent even greater devises to kill, and exterminate their brothers and fellowmen, their gradual mental and physical collapse, the disinter gration o f human relationships, all these illustrate a greater degree o f barbarism among the peoples o f the old world than has ever been known in the history of the world. Modern races are far more blood-thirsty than they were 300 years ago, more crime exists, and more criminals are born every day. Crime and its causes seem to increase with the advance o f civilization. We might ask ourselves the question, “Does our kind o f civilization pay?” rather than “Does crime pay?” M odem science has done a great deal to forstall the collapse o f civiliza tion from physical diseases but practically nothing has been done with reference to social and mental diseases, and the stabiliz ing o f human relationships. — Ta-ka-rakwi-ne-ken-ne. EDITOR’S NOTE — William Newell is a Penobscot Indian and retired anthropology professor, living at Indian Island. This article was first published in 1936. TRIBE’ NAMESAKE — David and Mary Lamberth [she is a Penobscot Indian from S Indian Island], christened their sailboat ‘ Penobscot.’ On board in the photo, taken at Subic Bay Yacht Club in the Philippines, is Mary, daughter Angela, and son Paul. David is stationed at the Subic Bay U.S. Navy base, and the family looks forward to sailing in a paradise of 7,000 tropical islands. They hope to return to the “States” by May 1980. As for the boat’ name, “Can you think of a better way to spread the word about the Penobscots?” s Mary asks. �Wabanaki Alliance September 1979 Page 15 VETERANS ADMINISTRATION Owned Homes For Sale Throughout The State Equal Housing OPPORTUNITY Minimum Cash Down Payment Financing Available Through V,A. 30 Year Loans — No Closing Costs 9V2% Interest. Anyone Can Buy You Don't Have To Be A Veteran See Your Local Real Estate Broker Or Contact VETERANS ADMINISTRATION LOAN GUARANTY DIVISION TOGUS, MAINE 04330 Tel. 207-623-8411 Ext. 433 advertisements WHY SHOULD I JOIN THE PEACE CORPS? Opportunity. For yourself, as well as others. Tw o ye a rs d e b t-fre e . A ll exp e n se s a re p a id fo r you, in c lu d in g h o usin g, m e d ica l, d e n ta l, su b sisten ce, and in su ra n ce costs. A bonus. A t th e end o f tw o ye a rs in se rvice , yo u w ill re c e iv e $ 3 ,0 0 0 as a re a d ju s tm e n t a llo w a n c e . Status. W hen you fin is h Peace Corps s e rv ic e you w ill re c e iv e one y e a r's p re fe rre d sta tu s fo r fe d e ra l jobs. M a n y p ro fe s s io n a ls began th e ir in te rn a tio n a l ca re e rs w ith s im ila r v o lu n te e r a ssig n m e n ts. Find o u t to d a y w h a t o p p o rtu n itie s a w a it yo u in th e Peace Corps. C all c o lle c t o r w r ite : Peace Corps, 1405-M John M cC o rm ack POUCH, B oston, M A 02 10 9. (617) 223-7366. Ext. 4. Who's Who among Indian women compiled WICHITA FALLS, Texas— Nominations are being sought for the first “W ho’ Who s Among American Indian-Alaska Native Women,” to be published next spring. The search for professional Indian women is being conducted nationwide. The listing will be circulated as a guide for employment and appointments on national, regional and community levels. As a resource, the publication will identify the profcessional expertise o f Indian wo men, needed by prospective employers and policy planners in both private and public sectors. The project, funded by W om en’ Educa s tional Equity Act (WEEA), is being devel oped in cooperation with a team of consultant-advisors who were selected to provide a broad based diversity in perspec tive, profession, geography, age and organi zation affiliation. The team o f consultants includes Mar jorie Bear D on’ Walk, Salish-Kootenai and t Chippewa of Billings, Montana; Rosemary Christensen. Chippewa o f Minneapolis, Min nesota; Jacqueline Ferron Delahunt, Rose bud Sioux o f Tumwater, Washington; Agnes Dill, Isleta-Laguna o f New Mexico. U s c r I e Write Dept. 74 World’s largest Indian Crafts catalog. Kits and readymade items. Books, records, furs, feathers, beads. More than 4,000 items to choose. GREY OWL Indian Craft Manufacturing Co. 150-02 Beaver Road, Jamaica, N.Y. 2 2 526-3660 1 SUBSCRIBE TO PUBLIC NOTICE The Legal Services Corporation is a private non-profit corporation estab lished by Congress to provide financial support for legal assistance to poor people in civil matters. The Corporation will be allocating limited funds starting January 1 1980 to provide additional , legal services to serve eligible Native Americans residing on or near various Indian reservations throughout the United States. Indian Reservations in Maine under consideration for this purpose include the Passamaquoddy and Penobscot res ervations. The views of, and proposals from, all interested groups will be considered. Grant application forms and additional information may be obtained by written request to: A. John Wabaunsee Assistant Regional Director for the Indian Desk Legal Services Corporation 1726 Champa Street, Suite 500 Denver, Colorado 80202 All proposals must be received by October 15, 1979. The public will have an opportunity to review and discuss proposals at an open meeting, in or near the service area under consideration. The time and place o f each meeting will be announced at a later date. POSITION AVAILABLE IMMEDIATE OPENING Associate Director of film on Indian people o f Maine. This person will work with the pro ducer to research, script, shoot and edit a film which will explore Indian life and identity in Maine. Ideas, enthusiasm and commitment are more important than previous film experience. Contact Jay Kent at Tribal Governors Inc., 93 Main St., Orono 04473 or call 866-5526 or 8277019. Project Director is Owanah Anderson, Choctaw, a native of Oklahoma. President o f National Committee on Indian Work for the Episcopal Church, Anderson serves on' President Carter’ Advisory Committee oin s Women, which focuses on issues o f employ ment, education and health services. Nominations should be forwarded to National W omen’ Program Development, s Inc., 2304 Midwestern Parkway, Wichita Falls, TX 76308. WABANAKI ALLIANCE News of Maine Indian Country Do you have a drinking problem? « .. Wabanaki Corporation offers an alco holism program for Indian people who need help because o f problems with alcohol. If you have such a problem and need help, or know of someone in need, please contact the Alcoholism Counselor in your community or area. Indian Island — Alcoholism Counselors — Clarence Francis — Rosalie Murphy — 207-866-5577. Indian Township — Alcoholism Coun selors — James Mitchell — Bernard Stevens — 207-796-2321. Association of Aroostook Indians — Alcoholism Counselors — Pious Perley — Harriet Perley — 207-762-3571. Pleasant Point — Alcoholism Counse lors — Grace Roderick — Angelina Robichaud — 207-853-2537. Central Maine Indian Association — Alcoholism Counselor — Alfred Dana — 207-269-2653 or 207-866-5577. PLACE AN AD Wabanaki Alliance, M aine’ only s Indian newpaper, now offers advertising at reasonable rates, with preference given to Indian persons and Indian businesses. Take advantage o f an opportunity to reach about 2, 00 readers — most of them Indian persons — through a display advertisement of your choice. Call or write us for rates and other information. WABANAKI ALLIANCE 95 Main St. Orono, Maine 04473 Tel. [207] 866-4903 �Page 16 Wabanaki Alliance September 1979 M ash pee claim appeal denied Flashback photo WASHINGTON — The U.S. supreme court upheld without comment a recent ruling that the Wampanoag tribe of Mash pee. Mass., has no legal right to sue for ownership of the town, plus $500 million from current non-Indian landowners. The ruling had first been made in a lower court. Tribal council chairman Russell Peters said. "I think it’ really a miscarriage s of justice. Civil justice is not very civil.” U.S. district court Judge Walter J. Skinner dismissed the Mashpee case last year after a jury concluded Wampanoags did not legally constitute a tribe, as defined by the federal government. Mashpee Indians were the majority in the town until real estate developers moved in, about ten years ago. Indians sought 11,000 acres. Indian history text readied Island sch ool days 50 years a g o This photo of pupils at Indian Island school, taken a half century ago, yields the names of many contemporary grandparents of Penobscot students at the elementary school. School began again recently, in the same building as pictured above. There were 76 students posing for this photo; today there are going to be just about the same number enrolled at Indian Island, but the school no longer has a seventh and eighth grade. Those wide-eyed, loveable faces are, from left, front row seated: Eleanor Tomer, Thelma Neptune, Inez Love, Clara Dennis, Joan Lolar, Annie Orson, Rita Francis, Helen Mitchell, Jerry Francis, Kenneth Paul, Donald Nelson, Carl Francis, John Mitchell, Leon Lolar, Pat Shay, “Happy” Hamilton. Front row, standing, from left, are Catherine Bimkins, Gloria Ranco, Yvonne Lolar, Louise Banks, Connie Francis, Francine Lewey, Phyllis Pherson, Evelyn Dennis, Franklin Neptune, Harry Hamilton, Norman Nelson, Leslie Banks, Ernest Goslin, Irving Ranco, Clement Neptune, John Nelson Jr., Joe Ranco Jr. Third row, from left, are Julia Neptune, Shirley Ranco, Francis Gardner, Gloria Mitchell, Catherine Phillips, Berenice Nelson, Theresa Love, Ernestine Francis, Phillip Lolar, Pious Tomah, Melvin Neptune, Norman Lolar, Nick Sapiel, Warren Mitchell, Bernard Banks, Femald Neptune. Fourth row, from left, Ida Francis, Marie Dennis, Eunice Lewey, Arlene Nicholas, Madeline Bernard, Regina Mitchell, Ernestine Tomah, Rose Francis,. David Sapiel, Arthur Neptune, Paul Hamilton, Peter Nelson, Joe Sapiel, Paul Francis, William Bernard. Back row, Beatrice Phillips, Hilda Mitchell, Marvis Lewey, Josephine Sappier, Ramona Sappier, Mitch Bernard, Manfred Francis, Morris Mitchell, Bobby Hamilton, Eugene Loring, Donald Francis, Lawrence Sockalexis. [Photo courtesy of Jean Archambaud Moore] news notes Small business seminar ORONO — Department of Indian Af fairs, in cooperation with Small Business Administration (SBA), is sponsoring a seminar on starting and operating small businesses and applying for SBA loans. Speakers will include area businessmen and SBA representatives. The meeting is scheduled for Wednesday, Nov. 14, from 10 a.m. until 4 p.m. and will be held at the Indian Resource Center, 95 Main Street, Orono. All people interested in attending are asked to contact Russell Socoby at Depart ment of Indian Affairs, Houlton, Maine 04730, telephone 532-6577. Social service workshops for Indians slated ORONO — A series of two day work shops will consider improving social service delivery to Maine Indians, according to Gail Dana, director o f Northeast Indian Cultural Awareness Training program at University of Maine. Workshops are scheduled Oct. 15-16, in Portland; Oct. 22-23, in Presque Isle; and Oct. 29-30. in Machias. To register or get further information, call Orono, 5812539. CMIA updates lists ORONO — Central Maine Indian Asso ciation (CMIA) is updating its mailing list. Anyone interested in being added to the list is invited to contact CMIA at 95 Main Street, Orono, Maine 04473, or phone at 866-5587 or 866-5588. AUGUSTA — A new version of Maine Indians and their part in the state’ history s is being prepared in a final draft, for publication in a planned Maine history text book called "Dirigo.” Dean B. Bennett, director of the project, said he hopes to see Dirigo used by Maine’ s 450-500 junior high school classes dealing with state history and culture. ‘‘ e’ W re moving along. I'm shooting that it'll be out by spring. Right now I’ deep in the editing m process.” he said. A teacher's guide is also in preparation, to accompany the hard bound text. ‘‘ looks to me like it'll It probably be a month or so before we go to a printer.” he added. Asked about such a history becoming quickly out-of-date, as new events transpire, Bennett said that he thought a good history book should be revised every five years. Bennett, himself a teacher, hopes to embark on another project soon, involving a curricu lum for natural science. Governor Lew ey named USET board member INDIAN TOWNSHIP — Passamaquoddy tribal Gov. Harold Lewey has been ap pointed a board member o f United South eastern Tribes (USET). an organization that aids its members in political and legislative matters. Last year the Passamaquoddy and Penobscot tribes were admitted as new members o f USET. Lewey attended a national meeting Sept. 25-26. in Nashville, Tenn. Tureen says Bell showed sympathy PORTLAND— Lawyer Thomas N. Tur een says the resignation of U.S. Atty. Gen. Griffin B. Bell— often seen as opposed to Maine Indian land claims— is not some thing to celebrate. Tureen, who represents the Penobscot and Passamaquoddy tribes in their 12.5 million acre claim, told a reporter that Bell championed certain Indian causes. He acknowledged there have been "complaints about him from time to time," but said Bell wrote a supportive letter clarifying the "nature of federal trust responsibility” just prior to his retirement from office. President Carter accepted Bell’s quitting with "genuine regret." although Bell has criticized the President as "just not very good with people," according to the New York Times. Carter named Bell's chief deputy, Benja min R. Civiletti, as the new attorney general. ANOTHER AGE is recalled by this early photo of Molly Spotted Elk, a Penobscot Indian whose career included vaudeville, journalism, study of her people, traditional medicine, poetry and a courageous escape from France during World War H. See feature story on page 8 . � Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource <em>Wabanaki Alliance</em> (September 1979) Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Indian Resource Center Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1979-09 Contributor An entity responsible for making contributions to the resource Donald Soctomah Julia Brush Language A language of the resource English Type The nature or genre of the resource Document Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource pdf Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context DV-407 Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Passamaquoddy Cultural Museum Rights Information about rights held in and over the resource Steve Cartwright. Used with permission. https://www.dawnlandvoices.org/collections/files/original/72527e920e5a85548cb8141e3e4350f5.pdf 742b9b60c927be7a08e1d44c0a22b857 PDF Text Text r~ Tribal Representatives to the Maine Legislature Donna M. Loring and Donald Soctomah Dear Tribal members, Tan Kahk; Greetings... It has been a privilege servin g for you as the P assam aqu oddy Tribal R ep resen ta tiv e to the Maine Legislature (1998 2002). Now the four year term has com e to a close and a new election for this important p osition w ill take place in the fall at Pleasant Point. This job pre-dates M aine’ state­ s hood, pre-dates the forma­ tion o f the U.S. This ambassador-like jo b for the Passamaquoddy includes meeting with other Tribes and traveling to various regions meeting agencies. There are many tasks ahead and many roa d ­ b lo c k s to m aneuver through. Take for instance: Native American Human Rights in the Maine prison system, the Department o f Corrections is so large o f a system that any type o f change would take years, I was upset with the treatment Native prisoners receive. Even after going to the highest level in State government there was only a little attention that was given to this issue. The Department o f Human Service is another agency o f state government which is one o f the largest and has practices which affect the tribes. During the last four years DHS has made positive changes to­ wards our communities because o f the work o f the tribe s Social Service Depart­ ment, Child Welfare, Health Clinic and by Tribal Legislation, but more work is needed here. We have introduced quite a number o f legislative laws which were passed (list attached) and testified on numerous others affecting the tribe and the environment. Building a trust relationship in the legislature does promote good communications towards a mutual understanding. That communication includes giving talks at schools and town organizations throughout the state, attending public hearings and voicing the view point o f the tribe, so our input will be heard. I have also served on a number o f com m issions including the St. Croix Waterway Committee, Econom ic Development Council, ABBE Fund Raising Board, Calais Heritage Advisory C om ­ mittee, assisted on the MITSC, Committee to review Tribal Representative, Tribal Natural Resource Committee. I have also worked on the Federal Emergency H is­ toric Plan, National Park Service Cultural Plant, Army National Guard Historical Cultural Plan and the Tribal Historic Preservation Plan; submitted and received four grants from the National Park Service dealing with Historic Preservation; completed application for establishment o f a Passamaquoddy Tribal Historic Preservation officer position with the Tribe. On environmental issues; submitted comments on the aquac- please turn to back p a g e The short session o f the 120th Legislature ended in early April. Although it was a short session a lot happened. First o f all,' I withdrew a bill I had submitted that would have authorized the Penobscot Nation Tribal Court to hear Child Welfare cases involving the Houlton Band o f Maliseet Indians. This would be a temporary remedy until the Houlton Band establishes its own court system. The Houlton Band tween the state Department o f Human Services , the Attorney General’office and the tribes would be a better remedy than s making a permanent change to The Land Claims Settlement Act. Negotiations are progressing and it looks like an agree­ ment will be reached soon. The Maine Indian History and Education Commission held meetings over the last few months and they are ready to sub­ mit a preliminary report to the Commissioner o f Education, Duke Albanese. The Indian History and Education Com m is­ sion has done a tremendous jo b and I am very proud o f their accomplishments. The biggest and most controversial issue by far is the ques­ tion o f a casino in Maine. The legislature voted in favor o f creating a study commission to examine the question in detail. The Speaker o f the House Michael Saxl, the President of the Senate Richard Bennett, and the President Pro-tem o f the Senate Michael Michaud will appoint the C om ­ mission members. For the first time in Maine history, the Chief o f the Penobscot Nation and Governors o f the Passamaquoddy Tribes addressed a joint session o f the Maine State Legislature. Their speeches were widely covered on TV, radio stations and in the newspapers. They were visible to the whole State and held the attention of legislators, the Chief Justice, and the Governor. It is my hope that we will continue to be able to speak to both houses and that our brothers and sisters o f the Houlton Band o f Maliseets and the Aroostook Band o f M icmacs be included in the future. Finally, on a sad note, I will miss working with Representative Donald Soctomah who is termed out this year. Representative Soctomah was a great am­ bassador for the Passamaquoddy Tribe. He was always cooperative and we worked please turn to back p a g e Rep. Donna M. Loring RR1, Box 45, Richmond, ME 04357 Rep. Donald G. Soctomah P.O. Box 102, Princeton, ME 04668 �Maine’s First Ever State of the Tribes Address On motion o f Representative LORING o f the Penobscot Nation, the following Joint Resolution: (H.P. 1660) (Under suspension o f the rules, cosponsored by Senator CATHCART o f Penobscot and Representatives: BROOKS o f Winterport, BRYANT o f Dixfield, BUNKER o f Kossuth Township, ESTES o f Kittery FISHER o f Brewer, KOFFMAN o f Bar Harbor, O ’ NEIL o f Saco, SCHNEIDER o f Durham, SHERMAN o f Hodgdon, SOCTOM AH o f the Passamaquoddy Tribe, STANLEY o f Medway, TW OM EY o f Biddeford, Senators: DA GGETT o f Kennebec, ROTUNDO o f Androscoggin, SMALL o f Sagadahoc, TREAT o f Kennebec) JOINT RESOLUTION R ECOG N IZIN G THE FIRST FORM AL “ STATE OF THE TRIBES” ADDRESS TO A JOINT CONVENTION OF THE MAINE LEGISLATURE WHEREAS, the Wabanaki, People o f the Dawnland, have lived in what is now Maine for thousands o f years; and WHEREAS, the Wabanaki, including the Passamaquoddy Tribe, the Penobscot Nation, the Houlton Band o f Maliseet Indians and the A roostook Band o f Micmacs, have played and continue to play a vital role in the life o f the State and are an integral part o f the social, econom ic and legal fabric o f the State; and WHEREAS, the State values and honors the vibrant culture and heritage o f these native peoples and has great respect for their tribal governments; and WHEREAS, representatives o f the Passamaquoddy Tribe and Penobscot Nation have served in the Legislature since the earliest days o f Maine’state­ s hood; and WHEREAS, no tribe has ever delivered a formal “ State o f the Tribes”address to a joint convention o f the Legislature and doing so is a truly historic occasion; now, therefore, be it RESOLVED: That We, the Members o f the One Hundred and Twentieth Legislature, now assembled in the Second Regular Session, on behalf o f the people o f the State o f Maine make history as we recognize March 11, 2002 as the date o f the first ever “ State o f the Tribes” address at the Legislature; and be it further RESOLVED: That the One Hundred and Twentieth Legislature pays tribute to the native peoples o f the State and their tribal governments; and be it further RESOLVED: That suitable copies o f this resolution, ddly authenticated by the Secretary o f State, be transmitted to the Governors and Chiefs o f each o f the State’Wabanaki communities on behalf o f the people o f the State o f Maine. s HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES March 11, 2002 READ and ADOPTED. Sent for concurrence. ORDERED SENT FORTHWITH. Clerk Governor Richard Doyle Passamaquoddy Tribe at Pleasant Point (Sipayik) . . “ Throughout history, the Passamaquoddy have been there when the people and the United States needed us. Our people fought in many wars for the United States to protect our country, our land, and our way o f life. From the Revolutionary War to the present, my people have fought valiantly to protect our nation. This despite the fact we were not granted the right to vote in Maine until 1954. This is the first time in 182 that tribal leaders have addressed the Maine Legislature. We have always taken great pride in fighting for our nation to preserve its liberty. M y uncle, who recently passed to the next world, was a veteran o f World War II, Korea, and Vietnam. I know personally the type o f sacrifice that he and others like him from m y tribe made to preserve this country o f ours. ” Chief Barry Dana Penobscot Nation,,, “ need the resources to move together into the future as a strong autonomous nation, working together with our neighbors to make We our home everything we have always wanted. And this can be done. And it needs to be done now. It is time to unlock the chains of fear that stifles our Settlement. Neyan Penawepskewi. I am Penobscot...but I am also of Maine. What is good for the people o f the Penobscot nation is also good for the people o f the State o f Maine. On behalf of all my relations, the birds, the fish, the turtles, all the four-legged, the insects, the land, rocks, trees, plants, air, water and the spirit that moves through us all. Waliwani.” Governor Richard Stevens Passamaquoddy Tribe at Indian Township (Motahkomiqkuk) . .. “ The world today is a place o f uncertainty and upheaval. We as Ameri­ cans remember the awful events six months ago today in New York, Washington and Pennsylvania. As our people struggle with fears, doubt and worry about the future. It is our responsibility as the elected officials o f the people o f Maine and the Passamaquoddy Tribe to foster stability and accomplish a new era o f mutual respect and cooperation between ourselves. It is my Tribes responsibility to work with the State o f Maine, to find common ground, and broaden our horizons while practicing our individual culture. It is my belief that the Passamaquoddy people and the people o f Maine expect no less. A pococ nomiyaul kityaw. Until we meet again. There is no word fo r goodbye in the Passamaquoddy language because we know we will be meeting again. Woliwon" �March on Statehouse for Water Protection Tribal members and supports gather at the steps o f the statehouse to deliver the court ordered tribal paperwork to the paper companies. The Tribal Governors o f the Passamaquoddy Tribe and the chief o f the Penobscot Nation lead the march to Augusta to deliver the court ordered papers. After a two year battle in the Maine courts and a rejected hearing in the Federal courts the Tribes had to deliver paperwork concerning environmental issues, so the paper companies can review them. This was a very sad day m State and Tribal relations. The people o f Maine sided with the tribes on the issue o f clean w ater, as supporters follow ed the tribe to the statehouse steps. This was a long walk, 40 miles, starting at the 1724 Norridgewock village site, an area o f another disaster.....” Rep. Soctomah From the birchbark canoe, the Passamaquoddy people trav­ eled the coa st of Maine and New Brunswick Canada, har­ vesting just enough food for the families and leaving the rest for nature to con su m e. On a su ccessfu l hunting trip the canoeist u ses the m oose call­ ing horn to sign his return. Here on Grand Manan Island the invisible line between the united States and Canada has divided the traditions! lands of the Passamaquoddy tribe. EC 4 WATER PROTECTION Rep. Loring speaks out Rep. Soctomah with his sister Madonna after the March A message from Penobscot Nation Governor Barry Dana on Water Pro^r *'nn Qnm p rp•nntv May 23rd, Norridgewock, Maine on the shores o f the Kennebec River, we gathered at 5 a.m. to begin our March to Augusta. This was a civil rights style march to bring public awareness to our struggles to have the State o f Maine recog­ nize our sovereign status. This peaceful march helped us educate the people o f the State as to who we are and our status as a tribe. Fifty people, both Indian and non-Indian completed the march covering 39 miles. News media reporters joined us, interviewed us and helped spread the message. We concluded the walk at the Augusta Civic Center. The next morning we met at the Civic Center but this circle included 150 people. We all walked the remaining three miles from the Civic Center to the steps o f the Capitol. On the steps we delivered our speeches to the audience, which again in­ cluded the media. Our m essage was clear, that the State, its courts and paper industry has violated the 1980 Settlement Act by invading internal tribal matters by requesting to in­ spect tribal documents. On those steps we were joined by members o f the Coalition to Support Tribal Sovereignty, the Chair o f the Maine Indian Tribal State Commission, the Presi­ dent o f the United Southern and Eastern Tribes, the co-founder o f the the 42 mile route we received many horns and thumbs up in support. Maine Peoples Alliance, all who gave eloquent speeches in support o f our People across the State are drawing the conclusion that the fight for sov­ efforts. ereignty as well as the efforts for a casino are all about desire to be self- This event brought much needed attention to our struggles. All along reliant, self-governed and independent. �Remarks of Rep. Loring on the Casino proposal before the committee M y ancestors lived on this land we low tribal leaders from around the coun­ Office, to ensure that traffic is well-man- * unemployment rates fell on average now call Maine for thousands o f years. try who share many o f the same concerns aged, wildlife is protected, natural areas by 25% Life has been hard. I remember in the o f the Passamaquoddies and Penobscots are preserved, and growth is contained. * welfare and unemployment payments winter when we had to walk over the here in Maine. They told me that such The reason we are proposing that the ca­ dropped by 13% to 17% ice-covered Penobscot River. We would developments have made an enormous sino resort be close to the Maine Turn­ * construction industry earnings in the have to do this to g o to school, get gro­ difference in the lives o f their tribal mem­ pike is so that traffic will get in and out area increased by 18% ceries or whatever we needed to pur­ bers. They have created hope and oppor­ without ever getting on local streets or * hotel and lodging earnings increased chase. Som e times the ice would break tunity. And above all, for the first time in causing local tie-ups. up under our feet. At least one adult or two hundred years, they have made it pos­ by 43% * recreation and amusement earnings This will be a high quality resort - increased by 22% child would be lost to drowning every sible for Indians to be self-reliant. That is one that everyone in Maine will be proud year. We finally got a bridge in 1959. I why we have proposed a casino resort here to point to, like the great hotels from a * and there was no statistically signifi­ cant increase in crime or bankruptcy. remember when my grandmother would in Maine. We have talked with tribal lead­ hundred years ago in Bar Harbor and Po­ make “ ock Robin” She would make C . ers from all over the country and they have land Springs. The bottom line is that, overall, life is better. it only on certain occasions. What we told us that such developments have made We will locate in a community that didn’ realize was the occasions were t an enormous difference in the lives o f their embraces the resort. We will not just These are the facts. Casinos benefit Robin was a mixture o f flour and water. tribal members. They have created hope and opportunity and above all, for the first follow - but exceed — all state and lo­ cal laws with regard to environmental tourism, recreational and retail businesses. They provide jobs. They provide taxes. I was lucky to be able to g o on to c o l­ time in two hundred years, they have made permitting and regulation. We will pay And they make Indians self reliant. This lege, but many o f my people did not. it possible for native people to be self-re­ all local and state taxes. This resort will Many had to leave home because there liant. We want the same opportunity that be totally locally owned and controlled. is what I want for the people o f the Passamaquoddy and Penobscot Nations. were no jobs. Many stayed and worked native peoples have elsewhere. We are no All of the money will stay and circulate Since graduating from college, I at menial tasks earning just enough to less tribal. We are no less native. That is within Maine. And the responsibility for have served in the Maine Legislature for survive. why we have proposed a casino resort here doing it right will be right here as well. five years. There have been times when in Maine. Ken Curtis, our good friend and outstand­ I have felt invisible. There have been times when I have been listened to. when we had nothing else to eat. C ock It was hoped that the Land Claims settlement would change all that. For the most part it has helped. It has Please know that we would not pro­ ing former governor and Ambassador to strengthened our sense o f identity. It made pose a development in Maine that was Canada, Maddie Corson, former chairman This is one o f the important times it possible for us to repurchase land that just g oo d for us, and not good for ev­ o f Guy Gannett Publishing that until re­ when we need Maine people to listen. had been illegally taken from us. And it eryone else. We love this land. Our re­ lationship to it goes beyond laws and cently owned the Portland Press Herald, and Neil Rolde, the author and former leg­ We need you to understand the impor­ regulations. It transcends governments, islator, have all agreed to serve on our tance o f self-reliance to our tribes. We need you to understand and consider the profits, and the perception o f power. We board o f directors. These people were cho­ benefits that have com e to other states tal econom ic standing o f native people will protect the land, always and forever. sen because they believe in this proposal can com e to ours. The world is chang­ has not fundamentally changed. Our per The casino resort plan is designed to en­ and share our commitment to doing it ing and a highly com petitive global capita income is 28% lower than non-na­ right. The tribes o f Maine com e as a part­ market is emerging. We need to form a tive per capita income, native unemploy­ hance our home, not hurt it. This is why the development we are ner, not as an outsider. partnership, we need to work together ment is 10 times higher than non-native proposing will be absolutely environ­ The University o f Chicago studied the unemployment. And native life expect­ ancy is only 48 years. We must do more. That is what m oved us to explore the mentally sound. We will work in part­ nership with the host community, the Southern M aine R egion a l Planning Com m ission, and the State Planning impact o f casinos on 100 neighboring provides a modest annual stipend o f a few hundred dollars to Indian families. Though life is better, the fundamen­ idea o f a casino. I have talked with fel­ communities for the National Gambling Impact Study Com m ission in 1999. Here’ what they found: s for a sustainable econom ic future. I want to close with this thought: What is g o o d fo r the p e o p le o f the P en obscot nation is also g,ood for the people o f the State of Maine. Tribute to John Neptune, 2002, Outstanding Maine Indian Portrait Project John Neptune, the first Penobscot Nation Tribal Repre­ sentative to the Maine Legislature in 1823, was re-elected to this position again in 1824, 1831, 1835, 1837, 1844. anH finally in 1 o l. Neptune, born on July 22, S 1767 was also Lieutenant Gover­ nor for a span of fifty years, start­ ing in 1816 at the age of 49 and concluding upon his death on May 8, 1865. "Neptune was born in a birchbark wigwam with a little fire in the center, and nothing civilized but a gun, an axe and an iron kettle; he slept on a couch of fir boughs overlaid with skins, wore the scantiest clothing, spoke no En­ glish. When his life ended, it was in a framed dwelling, with bed­ stead and blankets, a stove, a clock.....and white man's speech. ...It was with pride he declared him­ self a "good United States man " According to Fannie Hardy Eckstorm from "Old John Neptune and Other Maine Indian Shamans" (The Southwest-Anthoensen Press, 1945. Portland, ME) Known also as a medicine man, Neptune was married to an­ other famous shaman, Molly Molas­ ses. Other highlights for him were meeting with Maine's first Governor, William King, oh July 11,1820 to dis­ cuss the needs of his tribe and be­ ing the subject of Henry David Thoreau's writing. Mr. Thoreau wrote, ''....Governor Neptune...one of the humblest of them all. He told me that he was eighty-nine; but he was going moose-hunting that fall, as he had been that previous one. The Indians on the island appeared to live quite happily..." John Neptune's portrait by Obadiah Dickinson from January of 1836 was purchased for $200 in 1962 by the state of Maine. The portrait has hung in the Blaine House in Augusta, currently is in the Maine Senate Chamber, and has been re­ quested to be shown temporarily a the D.A.R. Museum in Washington D.C. for an exhibition in October of 2002: Forgotten Patriots, African American and American Indian Ser­ vice in the Revolutionary War. If sent for this exhibition, the portrait will eventually be returned to Maine's capital for permanent placement. �Rep. Donna Loring is Guest Speaker at Richmond Memorial Day Activities by Rep. Donna Loring I had the honor o f addressing the town o f R ichm ond as their key note speaker on M em orial Day. This is what I said about Native Americans: ...Native A m ericans have served with honor in all o f A m erica’ wars. s The m em bers o f the P enobscot, Passamaquoddy, M icm ac and M aliseet States including children. Approximately 12% o f the Native American population, or one third o f all a b le - b o d ie d Indian m en serv ed in WWII. This is the highest percentage o f any racial group. Several hundred Native American W omen also served with the W om en’ s Army Corp, Army Nurse Corp and the cans see duty today wherever our armed forces are stationed. W omen Veterans, Native American Veterans as w ell as Veterans o f other races and cultures were among the many souls that lost their lives since the R evo­ lutionary war in the service o f our coun­ try, protecting our freedom and our way o f life. Freedom is not free and we continue to pay the price. Wars have been fought in Europe and A sia in order to keep the enemy from our soil. With the attacks o f September 11, this country will never be the same. A few days after September 11,1 wrote a poem on behalf o f the Penobscot Na­ tion in honor o f those who died on that tragic day. We as native people believe that the eagle is a sacred sym bol and that our ancestors see through its eyes and it sig­ nifies strength, purity, and protection. My poem is called “ Ten Thousand eagles” I would like to read it to you: . Ten thousand eagles flew that day across the bright blue sky to meet the spirits on their way from fiery smoke fille d tombs. Tribes fought to help this country gain its independence from England. Since the early 1800’ the United s, States government had sent missionar­ ies to the tribes in order to help them assimilate into the larger society. Indian tribes resisted this and maintained their languages and cultures. This very resis­ tance was to play a m ajor role in win­ ning a world war. Eight thousand Am erican Indians to ok part in W W I. Their patriotism caused congress to pass the Indian Citi­ zenship A ct o f 1924. S in ce N a tiy j people were fighting s j u dying for this country, C on gress felt it only right to grant them citizenship. In WWII, m ore than 44,000 Native Am ericans served with distinction in both the European and Pacific Theaters. M ore than 40,000 others left their res­ ervations to work in ordinance depots, factories and other war industries. At that time there were only 350,000 Na­ tive A m erican s in the entire United Navy. Native people contributed to win­ ning W W II in a unique way. The Japa­ nese were adept at breaking our codes and because o f this ability they were winning the battles. It was imperative to winning the war that we have the abil­ ity to communicate with our forces with­ out our m essages being decoded by the Japanese. Navajo code talkers used codes de­ rived from N avajo and -;’ Native ner speech wj]]Cii Were unintelligible to the enemy. While m ost codes were consid­ ered unusable after one day, Navajo codes were never broken. I can’help but wonder what would t have happened if assimilation o f all the tribes were complete and all tribes spoke English only. Would we be speaking Japanese or even German today? M ore than 42,000 Native A m eri­ cans, m ore than 90% o f them volun­ teers, fought in Vietnam. Native Ameri­ They soared above the dark, black, clouds billow ing from the earth and hovered f o r a moment there and saw the fa c e o f doom. they would forever be wrapped within the eagles wings through all eternity. Ten thousand eagles flew that day as all the w orld stood still and watched in shock and horror as the tragedy unfurled. Now we are left here on this earth to fa c e the billow ing clouds and our eyes search f o r the eagles as we say our prayers out loud. May our spirits soa r on e a gle ’wings s above the dark black clouds o f hatred, murder and revenge that keep us hatred bound. Ten thousand eagles flew that day as all the w orld stood still. The eagles flew above those clouds perhaps som e day We will. We face a new and different kind o f war. But w e face this new war united with our brothers and sisters, Regard­ less o f our differences we are all Ameri­ cans, all o f us together. We are diverse, we are strong, w e are creative. When we respect each others differences, these differences can be used for a greater good. United we are invincible and we will prevail. In c lo s in g the last war that was fought on American soil was the Civil War. I leave you with a quote from Presi­ dent L incoln’ Gettysburg Address de­ s liv e re d on N o v e m b e r 19, 1862 jGettysburg PA.: Ten thousand eagles gathered and sw oop ed down beneath the clouds. They fo u n d the spirits one by plucked them f-'urn fheir plight. is tor us the living, rather to be dedicated here to the unfinished work which they who fought here thus far so They carried each new spirit through the bla ck and hate fille d clouds. nobly advanced. It is rather for us to be here dedi­ cated to t\ve great task rew&vruug bet or e t tjf. e US- They gave them each a shelter wrapped in warm wings oh so tight. They gave them strength and comfort too on their unexpected flight. On swift wings they flew towards their final destination where each spirit knew without any hesitation There would be p ea ce and love and harmony That from these honored dead we take increased devotion to that cause for which they gave the last full measure o f devotionThat w e here highly resolve that these dead shall not have died in vainthat this Nation, under God, shall have a new birth o f freedom- and that government o f the people, for the people shall not perish from the earth.” Wabanaki Studies Commission's Work to Date The Wabanaki Studies C om m is­ sion held eight full-day meetings at the University o f Maine from O cto­ ber 2001 through May 2002. C om ­ mission members have talked about the follow ing areas during these meet­ ings: V During their O ctober 19 organi­ zational meeting, which was spon­ sored by the Wabanaki Center at the University, Com m ission members en­ gaged in a visioning exercise (how Maine's s c h o o ls sh ould be d o in g things differently in ten years); re­ v ie w e d r e s o u r c e s a v a ila b le and needed to support the work o f the Com m ission; selected their chairper­ son; and began to discuss the opera­ tions o f the Commission. V On Novem ber 5, 2001, they re­ view ed a draft m ission and vision statement for the Commission; shared their expectations about what the C om m ission will do; continued their discussion about operations (ground rules, process issues, p ossible sub­ committees, and staff for the C o m ­ mission); and identified a number o f things that students should learn and really understand. V On D ecem ber 10, 2001, they final­ ized their process for selecting a staff person. They also agreed to identify what should be taught and learned and what resources are needed to do this in each o f the four topics identified in the law-tribal government, tribal culture and history, tribal territories, and tribal e c o ­ nomics. They began with tribal territo­ ries, breaking down into small groups organized by grade level. V On January 8, 2002, C om m ission m em bers d iscu ssed what should be taught and learn ed w ith regard to Wabanaki econom ic systems; shared a number o f books and other resources that potentially could be helpful to teach­ ers and students; and em phasized the importance o f involving the Department o f Education and tribal communities in this initiative. V There was no meeting in February because o f snow. On March 4, 2002, Com m ission members and staff shared additional materials that potentially could be helpful to teachers and stu­ dents; d ecid e d to participate in the March 1 State o f the Tribes Day at the 1 Maine Legislature; and continued the discussion o f what should be taught and learned with regard to Wabanaki e c o ­ nom ic systems. V Com m ission members began their meeting o f April 1-2, 2002 with a dis­ cussion about what they want each stu­ dent to know about the Wabanaki people by the time he/she graduates from high school. They also discussed who should determine what is taught and they iden­ tified the need for ongoing commitments to the Wabanaki Studies Com m ission by the Department o f Education, the Uni­ versity o f Maine, and the Maine Indian Tribal-State C om m ission . In sm all groups organized by grade level, they discu ssed what should be taught and learned about tribal government, tribal history, and tribal culture. They also had an introductory conversation with Ruth Townsend, C ollege o f Education at the University o f Maine in Orono, about the relevance o f Maine's Learning Results to Maine Native American Studies. V On May 6,2002, Commission mem­ bers met with Connie Manter o f the Maine Department o f Education to fur­ ther explore the relationship between the work o f the Com m ission and Maine's Learning Results. Ms. Manter suggested a framework for organiz­ ing what should be taught and learned. Com m ission members also reviewed an outline for their preliminary report (due at the beginning o f June 2002); began to discuss what they want to do in the com ing months; and decided to in v ite the D epartm en t o f E d u cation 's C o m m is s io n e r and Deputy Com m issioner to meet with them in early June. V During the meeting o f June 6, the Commission members met with Com ­ missioner Duke Albanese and Deputy Judy Lucarelli o f the Maine Depart­ ment o f Education to discuss their progress to date and to share ideas about resources needed to support the implementation o f the law. They also discussed their preliminary report. The Department o f Education, the University o f Maine, and the Maine Indian Tribal-State Com m ission all have made commitments to continue to support the work o f the Wabanaki Studies Com m ission through its sec­ ond year. �Headlines rang out; Paper Company returns ancient burial island to the Passamaquoddy Tribe What a joyou s event as the president o f Domtar Industries traveled to Indian Township Passamaquoddy Reservation to deliver the deed to the burial island. Domtar listened as the Tribe spoke o f the smallpox epidem ic which swept over the tribe, endangering the existence o f the whole tribe. Victims traveled to the island to die so others would live...and survive as Passamaquoddy people. Rep. Soctomah Island of the Bear by GISELLE GOODMAN, Portland Press H erald Writer Sunday, May 26, 2002 Copyright 2002 Blethen Maine N ew s­ papers Inc. IN D IA N T 0 W N S H I P“ They left their village, know ing they CCU]^ never com e back. Burning from fever, fatigue and rashes, they paddled their canoes through the choppy waters o f B ig Lake, three m iles against the wind, to Gordon Island. O n days when the w ind was right, their fam ilies o f the tribe, still liv­ ing in the village, could hear across the water the restless cries o f their loved ones as they suffered and died from smallpox. Since that terrible time 150 years ago, Gordon Island has been a sacred p la c e fo r the m e m b ers o f M aine's Passamaquoddy Tribe - a burial ground for ancestors who sacrificed themselves for the sake o f others. In m ore recent times the island has been a source o f angst to the people, who yearned for G ordon Island's return but met with re­ fusals to sell from the paper company that ow ned it. That yearning ended last week, w hen G o rd o n Island's n ew ow n ers changed Passamaquoddy history forever by restoring the 26-acre island to the tribe. "The com in g hom e o f our elders, our ancestors, that is what means the m ost to us," said R oger Paul, a keeper o f Passamaquoddy cultural heritage. F or experts in Native A m erican studies, the gift by Domtar Inc., a Cana­ dian paper company, is a remarkable gestu re that is rarely seen. F or the Passamaquoddy it is an olive branch that marks a new relationship between the tribe and its neighbors. "It says there are som e g o o d people out there who want to do the right thing, who want to be our friends," said Donald Soctomah, the tribe's state representa­ tive. "Domtar shook our hand and we are passing that shake on to our neigh­ bor." The tribe celebrated the return o f the island with a powerful and emotional ceremony last Tuesday. For the first time in its history, tribal members invited the public to watch their sacred and private rituals o f honor for the spirits o f the ancestors. A pipe cerem ony offered blessing and thanks to Gordon Island. The tribe's ch ild ren p erform ed a "pine n eedle" dance, a tutuwas, out an earlier dream o f an elder. A s the elder slept, saw great schools offish swimming to­ ward the village, from the direction, o f the island. The other elders say she saw the tribe's ancestors returning home. The Passamaquoddy tribe is one o f the few Native American tribes that con ­ tinues to live on its aboriginal lands, now known as Indian Township and Pleas­ ant Point. The tribe has been located in what is now eastern Washington County for 12,000 years. They were given their land, Gordon Island and many others in B ig Lake, in the early 1800s through a treaty with Massachusetts. Despite this treaty, their land was slow ly sold, given away or traded o ff in p ie ce s by the state and by nontribal members. G ordon Island was am ong those pieces o f land. S m a llp o x fou n d the stru g g lin g Passamaquoddy tribe sometime in the mid-19th century, when there were just 150 members o f the tribe left. The first to die from sm allpox - a virus that riddles the body with a rash o f deadly b u m p s - w as a fa m ily liv in g on M uw iniw M onihq, the Island o f the Bear, Gordon Island. It becam e a quar­ antined site and when members o f the mainland community began to feel the first sym ptom s o f the virus, they left their community from Peter Dana Point, got in their canoes and headed to G or­ don Island to die. "They left the community so the rest o f the tribe could survive," said Soctomah. "We knew it was our only chance for survival. It was a terrible point in our history." The sacrifice those Passamaquoddy made then, to live on an island separated from their community, com es as no sur­ prise to R ebecca Sockbeson, director o f multicultural student affairs at the Uni­ versity o f Southern Maine. "It sounds very heroic and brave, which it is," said Sockbeson, a member o f the Penobscot Nation. "But it was at that time the cultural norm." Native Americans were not capital­ ists, she said; they were communal. They made their decisions based on what was best for old P i be, not for themselves. She lias t\o doubt. \bat \be t w ho contracted sm allpox w ould have rem oved themselves from the com m u­ nity once they realized what a threat they were to the survival o f their people. "I’ sure being faced with the lev­ m els o f mass death it was also not even a ch oice that was given," Sockbeson said. "O f course you do this when there are hundreds around you who have died." Introduced into North America by European settlers, smallpox devastated the nation's Native American tribes. In Maine and in the Canadian Maritimes, for example, there were more than 20 Wabanaki tribes before the Europeans settled here. Today, there are four, in­ cluding the Passamaquoddy. Som e his­ torians have called the Europeans' intro­ duction o f smallpox the worst case o f gen ocide in the world's history, saying that the virus claim ed nearly 98 percent o f the original population o f Native Americans in North America. The Passamaquoddy living today are not certain how many people died from smallpox on Gordon Island. They are cer­ tain, however, that the 3,300 members o f the Passamaquoddy tribe alive today are here because o f the sacrifice their ances­ tors made on Gordon Island. The island’ only inhabitants now s are nature. It is hom e to hemlocks, birch and cedar trees. Songbirds flit among the branches while ferns grow ing from the m ossy underbrush w iggle in the breeze. For the Passamaquoddy people, it is an island deserving o f their respect, a place for spiritual renewal. P e o p le lik e R o g e r Paul, Indian Township Tribal Gov. Richard Stevens and T rib a l C o u n c il m e m b er Joe Socobasin take this very seriously. Stevens grew up knowing he should never take anything from the island, not a rock or a feather, believing that the eagle and the ow l who visit the island have left those feathers as an offering. When Paul and Socobasin visit the island, they sm udge themselves first - a practice o f cleansing thoughts and bod­ ies with the sm oke o f smoldering sage. A nd when they arrive, they present Co ib a S'pvtvVs, as\ oifecv cv g, o l . T b e Passamaquoddy have been try­ ing to get the inland back sin ce the 1990s. But at that time it was owned by pa­ per giant G eorgia Pacific, which re­ buffed repeated offers from the tribe to buy the land. This concerned the tribe, which saw an ever-present threat loom ­ ing over their sacred burial ground. "If the right people came along with the right amount o f money, they could have com e along and built a camp here," Socobasin said. "There would have been nothing we could have done to stop it." In 2001, M ontreal-based Domtar acquired the island as part o f its purchase o f G eorgia P a cific’ W oodland Mill, s which abuts Indian Township. O n ce again, the tribe asked if it could buy the island. The answer, again, was no. Domtar, recogn izin g the cultural significance o f Gordon Island, said it would rather give the tribe the island instead. "It's refreshing to be looked at as a culture rather than as a corporation," said Stevens. "And Domtar saw our culture." A Domtar spokesman said the com ­ pany tries to a cco m m o d a te N ative American tribes that have ties to the pa­ per company's land whenever possible. T h is has a m a zed m any o f the Passamaquoddy, who have for so long struggled with their neighbors to main­ tain their land and their way o f life. The elders have prayed for the return o f the island for so long. Now, they say, the circle o f the island's history is complete. Now, they say, the spirits o f their ancestors can finally rest in peace. �i A FAREWELL TRIBUTE TO REP. DONALD SOCTOMAH A Few Thoughts about Rep. Soctomah by Rep. Loring Since 1998,1 have had the privilege o f serving with Rep. Donald Soctomah in the Maine Legislature. 2002 marks the end o f D onald’ current tenure as Tribal s Representative to The Passamaquoddys o f Indian Township and Pleasant Point. Iam pleased that Donald will be able to spend more time closer to home, but at the same time regret losing such a powerful ally in Augusta. Donald and I worked in unison, perhaps more so than most Tribal Reps, that preceded us. One result o f that unique relationship is this newsletter itself, which I believe is the first joint tribal newsletter in our respective tribes’ 180 year history at the capitol. From.working with Donald in the stru ggle to ban the use o f the w ord squaw in association with M aine’maps, s businesses, land and water - to the uplill battle over A lbion Township (that "I truly believe Donald represented the Tribe very well. He is an honorable man and we miss his work at the Stae House." G o v ern or R ich a rd Stevens, P a ssam aq u od d y Tribe at In d ian Tow nship w e alm ost m iraculously overcame) I witnessed a man o f both great patience and conviction. Native Americans in Maine have been backed up against a wall o f oppression for so many genera­ tions; we are left in a position where we must demand even the m ost fundamen­ tal rights. Donald has always kept his passion and vision close in sight, never sidetracked from the frustrations o f be­ ing a lone v oice within M aine’halls o f s government, lacking the right to vote on either his comm ittee or on the floor o f the H ouse o f Representatives. Donald not only was my prime sup­ porter in passing a bill I sponsored to implement Native history and culture in M aine’primary and secondary schools, s he requested and w on a seat on the Joint Legislative Education Committee to en­ sure this first in the nation proposal sur­ vived the screening o f legislators. Even though Donald cou ld not vote on his committee, his v oice was important and he deserves a lot o f credit for helping to bridge the gap between tribal and state relations. Even today, as we march forward seeking social justice to control the des­ tiny o f our sovereignty in regards to our waters, land, and the ability for e c o ­ nom ic survival with our casino proposal - Donald continues to stand for his tribe every step o f the way. It is not only the Passamaquoddy Tribe that he stands up for though; it is for all members o f the Wabanaki alliance -always with honor, respect, zeal, and great pride. Donald never flaunts him self nor desires popu­ larity like many politicians do, he only presents him self when the tribes need him. When he speaks, his words are al­ ways right on mark and taken to heart. I w ill m iss you in Augusta Donald, but I know that you will remain at the forefront o f Native issues, advocating for what is right for our forefathers and mothers and our future generations. Thank you for four great years. Som e Legislation proposed and passed by Rep. Donald Soctomah during his two terms Through 2001 LD 2178 An Act to Amend the Act to Implement the Maine Indian Claims Settlement Concerning the Houlton Band of Maliseet Indians We were in favor o f the bill as written. The Maliseets should be sovereign as are P en obscots and Passamaquoddy. Rep. Sherman o f Houlton reluctantly sponsored by request; he was 70% against the bill in committee. Strongly support. The Maliseet Band should have the same rights as the Passamaquoddy and Penobscot. Com m ittee Report unanimous, OU GH T NOT TO PASS. LD 2418 An Act Concerning Offensive Names We com pletely supported this bill; should be a N o Brainer. The bill disal­ low s the use o f Squaw or squa by the State in naming public or geographic sites. It does not eliminate usage from the English lan­ guage. This word has always been offensive, in effect, used to demoralize native women. They are the foundation o f a healthy com ­ munity. The State must stop sanctioning its use. Signed by the Governor on 4/3/00; Public Law Chapter 613. LD 2499 An act Concerning the Date by Which Land Must be Acquired by the Penobscot Nation We were the sponsor o f this bill. The bill will extend the deadline by which the Nation can purchase certain trust lands from 1/31/2000 to 1/31/2021. Support for this bill will help the Penobscot Nation put the remainder o f land in Trust. Never should have been a time limit. All o f the Paper Co. land around our community was re­ cently sold. Signed by the Governor on 4/6/00; Public Law Chapter 625. LD 2549 An Act to Implement Recom­ mendations Concerning the Protection of Indian Archeological Sites W e were in favor o f implementing the recommendations that will preserve these sites. A R esolve passed last session shows the concern felt for protection o f these sites. Maine must protect the sites, as we have in the past. Signed by the Governor on 5/3/00; Public Law Chapter 748. LD 3210 An Act to Change the Name in the Statutes of a Native American Orga­ nization Able to Issue Hunting and Fish­ ing Licenses W e were in favor o f this bill as long as the organization works closely with the tribes to eliminate any duplication. Allows an off-reservation group to issue licenses from Native communities governing leader. Emergency signed by the Governor on 3/ 15/00; Public Law Chapter 558. Joint Study Order Establishing a Com­ mittee to Study the Recognition of Sov­ ereign Nations in the Legislature The bill is sponsored by Rep. Brooks at my request. Hopefully, the committee will vote to recommend a stronger role in both the House and Senate for tribal repre­ sentatives. Tribal Representatives want and need to play a more active role in the legislative process. Every bill passed affects our com ­ munities in one way or another. Study Report published on 4/2000; See the Executive Summary in this issue. LD 2607 An Act Concerning Previous Passamaquoddy Indian Territory Legis­ lation We were in favor o f the Legislature tak­ ing corrective action. A corrective amendment should be effec­ tive to change the law that was plainly in­ tended by all parties to the process amend­ ing the Implementing Act. House receded and concurred to Senate ac­ ceptance o f OUGHT NOT TO PASS Report. LD 2572 An Act to Fund the Cost of the Waiver of Tuition, Fees and Other Ex­ penses for Native American Students in the Maine Technical College System, Uni­ versity of Maine System and Maine Mari­ time Academy We were in opposition o f passage o f this measure, as it will only serve to desta­ bilize our funding base. I am against this bill Received Unanimous Committee OUGHT NOT T O PASS report. 2002 LD1178 - Sponsor: SOCTOMAH Short Title: DHS TO ADOPT RULES R EGARDIN G INDIAN HEALTH CLINIC Original Tide; Resolve, Directing the D e­ partment o f Human Services to Adopt Rules Regarding the Indian Health Clinic LD0618 - Sponsor: SOCTOMAH Short Title: REMOVE STATE ROAD SIGNS WITH OFFENSIVE NAMES FROM 1-95 & TURNPIKE Original Title: An Act to Remove State Road Signs with Offensive Names from Interstate Route 95 and the Maine Turnpike LD0523 - Sponsor: SOCTOMAH Short Title: CREATE A SPECIAL MAINE INDIAN TRIBE LICENSE PLATE Original Title: An Act to Create a Special Maine Indian Tribe License Plate LD0517 - Sponsor: SOCTOMAH Short Title: ESTABLISH IDENTIFICA­ TION CARD OF ME INDIAN TR AS ACCEPTABLE FORM OF ID Original Title: An Act to Establish the Iden- tification Card o f a Maine Indian Tribe as an Acceptable Form o f Identification LD0516 - Sponsor: SOCTOMAH Short Title: A R CH A EO LOG ICA L W ORK PERFO RM ED IN THE SHORELAND ZONES Original Title: An Act Regarding Prehistoric and H istoric A rch aeological Work Per­ formed in the Shoreland Zone LD0107 - Sponsor-. S O C T O M A H Short Title: EN FO RCEM EN T OE LAWS IN T. 12 REV STAT BY PASSAMAQUODDY WARDEN Original Title: An Act Regarding the En­ forcement o f Laws in the Maine Revised Statutes, Title 12 by Passamaquoddy War­ dens Tribal Legislation Signed Intao Law In The Last Legislative Session Chapter 601. Public Law LD 1940, Sponsored by Rep. Soctomah Passamaquoddy Tribes o f Indian Township and Pleasant Point. “ Act Regarding the An Repatriation of Native American Re­ mains” ‘ 1 22 MRSA §2842-B, as enacted by Sec. . PL 1993, c. 738, Pt. C, § , is repealed and 5 the follow ing enacted in its place: 32842-B.__Indian human remains 1 Transfer of remains. Except as provided . in subsections 2and 3.a person or entity who possesses anv human remains identified as Indian human remains shall transfer the re­ mains to The intertribal repatriation orga­ n ization that is a pp oin ted by The Passamaquoddy Tribe. Penobscot Nation. H oulton Band o f M aliseet Indians and A r o o sto o k B and o f M icm a cs for reburial. The intertribal repatriation orga­ nization shall make reasonable inquiry to locate the next o f kin o f the deceased. If next ofmains to the next o f kin. 2. _______ Medical Examiner cases._______ within the jurisdiction o f the Medical Ex­ aminer Act, the Chief Medical Examiner has authority over Indian human remains until the remains are no longer required for legal purposes. At that time, the Chief Medical Examiner shall make reasonable inquiry to locate the next o f kin o f the deceased. If next o f kin are located, the Chief Medical Examiner shall release the rem ains to the next o f kin o f the deceased. If no next o f kin are located. the remains must be released to the inter­ tribal repatriation organization for reburial. Kin are located, the intertribal repatriation organization shall transfer the re �...WE WILL MISS YOU IN AUGUSTA DONALD! Rep. Soctomah with local and regional tribal leaders M ore m em ories of Legislative Service Rep. Soctom ah with Gov. D oyle and Judy LucareUi, A ssistan t C om ­ missioner of Edu­ cation "I'll be doing what I like best. Practicing the traditions of old and incorporating them into the new era. I hope to make a difference; be­ ing a bridge between two cultures, and opening doors that may have been closed.” N Kathadin ts \V sp ‘ \\. \e w\\ua\ VngVAarvOs o\ Wve>NaPawaV:\ peopXe, marry traveled to this location to be close with the spirits, but rarely climbed to the top. Many of our legends originate from this wonderful peak, as it reaches into the clouds. Today, just as it was thousands of years ago our people travel to the mountain, seeking the vision of the past and the direction to the future. We need to maintain that connection just as much it needs us... Rep. Soctomah W ho W e A re ............ "I can im agin e h o w m u ch the past d o e s in d eed m atter to us. A l­ though m o st p e o p le usually take it for granted and d ev ote little tim e to studyin g or thinking about it, in fact the past is re sp o n sib le for ev ery ­ thing w e are. It is the c o re o f our humanity. T h e past is the w orld out o f w h ich w e have co m e, the m ultitude o f events and ex p erien ces that have sh aped our c o n s c io u s selv es and the so cia l w orlds w e inhabit. T o under­ stand h ow and w h y w e liv e as w e do, w e cann ot avoid ap pealin g to the past to explain h o w and w h y w e g o t to b e this way. ...No less im portant is the act o f rem em berin g the past, the backw ard reflective g a z e in w h ich w e se lf- co n scio u sly seek to recall the w o rld w e have lost, the vanished lan dscap e o f our form er selv es and lives, in order to gather the sign p osts b y w h ich w e find our w ay and k eep ou rselv es fro m b e c o m in g lost. I f Rep.Loring, Rep. Soctomah, Maine House Page “ Dee” Tihtiyas Sabattus (Rep. Soctomah’niece) and Rep. Al Goodwin of Pembroke s rights in Canada. The new Tribal representative has a big resposiblity ahead, so take som e time tory are the to o ls w e u se for reco llectin g that p la ce so w e can k n ow w h o and w h ere w e are. M em ory and history turn sp a ce into place, in vestin g Tan Kahk; Greetings.... .. from page 1 ultural lease issue, attended meetings on the Federal Em ergency Reg. C om m is­ sion debate on dam re-licensing issue, debated on the alewife issue, chaired the meeting on putting the Webber lot into trust status, and on current affairs: marched in the civ il rights march to Augusta, marched across the Interna­ tional Bridge to bring attention to racial profiling and to support native fishing the past is the p la ce fro m w h ich w e have com e, then m em ory and h is­ what w o u ld oth erw ise b e a purely b io lo g ic a l o r g e o lo g ic a l abstraction to ask questions and choose the best can­ with a w ealth o f hum an m eanings, and thereby turning it into the kind o f didate. The people have som e big decisions to make, it is you who will decide who and how the tribal government w ill be run for the next four years. Look at the background o f all the candidates and com e out and vote in the fall.... remembering the past and look ­ ing towards the future; your friend, p la ce w e c h o o s e to call hom e. ...Collective identity is an intricate set o f Donald Soctomah rem em bran ces that ties the present to the past." -William Cronon, "Why the Past Matters," Wisconsin M agazine o f History, vol. 84, no. 1 (Autumn 200), 3-13. Dear Tribal m em bers from page i together as a team very well. This joint newsletter is p roof o f that partnership. Donald, I am proud to have served with you in the House and on behalf o f all our colleagues I say, “ You will be missed.” Woliwoni. Donna M. Loring ft � Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource <em>Wabanaki Legislative News (</em>Dec. 2002) Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Loring, Donna M. and Donald Soctomah Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived University of New England Maine Women Writers Collection Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 2002-12 Contributor An entity responsible for making contributions to the resource Cathleen Miller, UNE Julia Brush Rights Information about rights held in and over the resource Donna M. Loring and Donald G. Soctomah. Used with permission. We thank University of New England for making digitized copies available. Language A language of the resource English Type The nature or genre of the resource Document Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource pdf Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context DV-476 https://www.dawnlandvoices.org/collections/files/original/5b1a92e15727110e31c6e545967634f2.pdf 46319813ed164f68af273144d8e7ef21 PDF Text Text ������� Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Other Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource <em>Wabanaki Legislative News </em>(1999) Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Loring, Donna M. and Donald Soctomah Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived University of New England Maine Women Writers Collection Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1999 Contributor An entity responsible for making contributions to the resource Cathleen Miller, UNE Meredith Ricker Rights Information about rights held in and over the resource Donna M. Loring and Donald G. Soctomah. Used with permission. We thank University of New England for making digitized copies available. Language A language of the resource English Type The nature or genre of the resource Document Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource pdf Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context DV-478 https://www.dawnlandvoices.org/collections/files/original/68a2f4dc71d3eb71fc3d7e9c9b0c00b0.pdf 5ccda5931773c23a9a2740049e2b10db PDF Text Text Tribal Representatives to the Maine Legislature Donna M. Loring and Donald Soctomah Tan Kahk; Welcome to the winters issue of the Wabanaki Legisla­ tive Newsletter. It Dear Tribal Members, The 120th session has ended and it was a long session. During this session we have won a few and lost a few. The main thing to remember is that even though we lost our bid for a vote in bas beerv quite a year comrmW ee. of Native News in the State of Maine. Passage of the Na­ tive Education Bill in 2001 tops the list, this will have a posi­ tive impact on rela­ tions between the State and the Tribes for many years to come. It will be a big accomplishment to get this completed and into the public schools in the state, I would like to thank the Maine Native Education Committee for taking this great step to help make this a reality. For the 2002 session there is a lot of work ahead, with a budget shortfall programs are going to have to tighten their belts and provide better services to all. I submitted three pieces of Legislation in this 2002 session, only two were accepted for review. Bill number one is concern­ ing Native Repatriation of Human Remains, this has to do with the return of remains in the possession of private collectors, there is strong support for this bill. The federal law address the issue of human remains in public museums but this also needs to be up­ dated in Congress, we need to put more pressure on Congress to made those changes. Bill number two is an act concerning Passamaquoddy land in Grand Lake stream, the Tribe presently own 6,200 acres in this area and would like to transfer it into Reservation status. A public meeting was held in Grand Lake Stream and we are hoping for another meeting to continue the communication. I am sorry to say that the legislation I submitted please turn to page 7 otv\y lost by leo votes. 1 believe that with further discussions and the backing o f leadership we will be given the right to vote in committees. I am hoping to see that happen in the 121st. The bills 1 submitted this session were both passed. The most important piece of legislation was the bill to require the teaching of Maine Indian History in all of Maine’s public and some of Maine’s private schools. This bill LD291 was passed and is now law. It is the most comprehen­ sive bill enacted on Indian history in the Coun­ try. Other states have expressed interest by re­ questing copies of the bill. The second bill I submitted was the bingo bill. This bill allows the tribes to play bingo on New Years Eve and New Years Day. This bill was past and is now law. Included in this issue will be testimony on LD291 and a list of bills Representative Soctomah and I submitted this session. The last half of the 120th will begin in January I hope to con­ tinue to focus on education as well as health issues and ways to improve our economic base and make it sustainable. I welcome any comments or ideas you might have. Yours in the Spirit of Unity and Power Donna M Loring, Penobscot Nation Representative Rep. Donna M. Loring RR1, Box 45, Richmond, ME 04357 Rep. Donald G. Soctomah P.O. Box 102, Princeton, ME 04668 �Native American History and Culture Commission Holds First Meeting by Rep. D onna Loring An Act to Require Teaching of Maine Native American History and C ulture in M ain e’s Schools was . signed into law by Governor Angus King on June 14th 2001. The law created the Maine Native American History and Culture Commission. The Commission was established to help prepare for the inclusion of Maine Indian history and culture into Rep. Donna Loring the required course of Maine Stud­ quired by law from the Maine Indian ies. The Commission will be a clear­ Tribal State Commission. inghouse for Maine Indian resource Suzanne Desiderio, appointed by materials and will develop a website. the H oulton B and o f M aliseets. They will also help teachers access Suzanne is a Tribal Council Mem­ a range of teaching tools from vari­ ber. ous books and videos to actual na­ tive speakers. Brian Reynolds, appointed by the Houlton Band of Maliseets. Brian is They met for the first time at the the Education Director. Wabanaki Center on the Orono Cam­ William Phillips, appointed by pus o f the U niversity o f M aine. the Aroostook Band of Micmacs. C ushm an A nthony, C hair o f the LD 291 “An Act to Require Teaching Maine Native American History and Culture in Maine’s Schools” b y D onna Loring LD-291 is now Maine law. It was passed by the House June 5, 2001 and passed in the Senate June 7, 2001. It was then signed into law by Governor Angus King on June 14, 2001 I am extremely proud to have been the sponsor of this bill. It is the high point of my legislative experience to date. I know it will make a difference in our future. This bill is the most innovative and comprehensive piece of legislation in reference to the teaching of Native American His­ tory in the Country. No other State has created a policy that requires teaching Native American History in such detail and also provides the means to do i t . . The bill is made up of four sections: Sec 1 makes Maine Native American studies a required com­ ponent of Maine studies, addressing the following topics: A. Maine Tribal Government and Political Systems, their rela­ tionship with local, State, National and International Governments. B. Maine Native American Cultural Systems and the experience of Maine tribal peoples throughout history: C. Maine Native American Territories: and D. Maine Native American Economic Systems Sec 2 Creates the Maine Native American History and Cul­ ture Commission to help prepare for the inclusion of Maine Na­ tive American History and Culture into the required course in Maine Studies. 1. Membership consists of eight members selected by the William is the Chief. Maine Indian Tribal State Commis­ sion facilitated the first meeting. the Aroostook Band o f M icmacs. The appointed members of the History and Culture Commission are as follows: the Chancellor of the University of Maine System. Maureen was also elected to Chair the Commission. Rebecca Sockbeson, appointed by the Penobscot Nation. Rebecca is N ativ e Bernard is a Tribal Elder. Barney Berube, appointed by the Commission of Education. Barney is Maureen E. Smith, appointed by the Bernard Jerome, appointed by A m erican and Multicultural Affairs Coordinator at the University of Southern Maine, Portland in Bilingual Education/Department of Education. Gail Rae Carter, appointed by the Commissioner of Educaton. Gail is a Portland High School Teacher. Mary Griffith, appointed by the Commissioner of Education. Mary is a Middle School Teacher Christine Peterson, appointed by the C om m issioner o f Education. John Bear Mitchell, appointed by the Penobscot Nation. John teaches Native Studies at the Indian Island School. Christine is an Elementary School Teacher. Judy Pusey, appointed by the Commissioner of Education. Judy is Thomas Lewey, appointed by the a Curriculum Director. Passam aquoddy Tribe - Sipayik. The Commissioner will be ap­ Thomas is a Tribal Council member pointing one more to be determined. and a Bilingual and Cultural The Commission is the heart of Instructor. this bill and the work that they are W ayne N ew ell, appointed by P assam aq u o d d y T ribe- Motahkmikuk. Wayne is Assistant doing will determine the success or failure of this new Maine law. C O M M U N IC A TIO N AND Principal and Leader of Bilingual EDUCATION EQUALS UNDER­ Program and the representative re- STANDING Education including an elementary school teacher, a middle school teacher, a high school teacher, a curriculum director, a f i cation and one member selected by the Chancellor ot the Uni- 1 versify of Maine System. 2. DUTIES: The Commission shall assist school adminis­ trative units and educators in the exploration of a wide range of educational materials and resources. Identify resources Involve other knowledgeable organizations and Individuals able and willing to assist with this work including, but not limited to museums and educators. 3. Maine Indian Tribal State Commission will convene the first meeting of the commission no later than 30 days following the effective date of enactment. 4. REPORTING FINDINGS to the commissioner of Educa­ tion and a copy to MITSC The report shall consist of educational materials, opportunities for professional development, training and technical assistance. 5. Staff assistance and Resources will be provided by MITSC and each entity. elimii .. dissemination to educators in the State by June 1,2003. Sec 3 Report must include plan to assist school administrative units. Plan must include criteria to identify school administrative units having difficulty meeting instructional components. The plan for assistance must be established by July 30,2004 and imple­ mented by 2004-2005 School year. Sec 4 School to implement Maine Native American Studies sub­ ject to availability of funds. School administrative unit must present findings and support evidence to department of education that it cannot afford to implement the program. The dept of Ed shall review findings and assist in planning for implementation This bill is the result of support from the House, Senate, Gov­ ernors office, the Maine Indian Tribal State Commission, Depart­ ment of Education, University of Maine System, Tribal govern­ ments, grass roots organizations, interested Individuals and stu­ dents. It was a tremendous effort and I thank you all. �LD 291, An Act to Require Teaching of Maine Native American History from page 4 eluded information reflecting variety of perspectives. Similarly, the viewpoints of scholars and teachers were respectfully incorporated into the book. During these years relationships formed and strengthened among members of different Native communities, as well as among teachers and scholars and Native people. I believe that including information about Wabanaki people in school curriculum in primary and secondary schools and in the Learning Results can also result in building respect among people from different commu­ nities and backgrounds. I believe that it is only fair that history is presented in a more accurate fashion and not from the point of view of just the dominant culture. But I also believe that this is the best way to teach history and social studies. Students get much more out of their ‘studies if they can look at differing perspec­ tives - for example, English, French and Wabanaki points of view during colonial times. It is also important for them to realize that there were different perspectives and motivations within each community. Considering these perspectives in depth will not only make history more interesting, but will also give students more insight into contemporary issues and prepare them to be more in­ formed participants themselves. I hope you will vote “ought to pass” for this bill. This is a unique opportunity to deepen our Maine cur­ riculum in a meaningful way that may lead to increasing respect and understanding among Maine communities. I am privileged to be one of the advisors of the newly formed Civil Rights Team at Philip W.Sugg Middle School. When students on the team heard that I was going to testify on this bill, some of them wanted to join me. They are here to read their testimony after spending the morning as pages. Thank you for the opportunity to tes tify. Good afternoon Senator Mitchell- Representative Richard, and members of the committee, I am Kristen Ruby. I believe that students should learn a lot more about Maine Native Americans in school. They are an important part of Maine’s history and should be recognized for their part in our history. They have played a big part in the development of Maine, but are not recognized for it. A lot of people don’t really understand them and there are a lot of the myths they hear that aren’t true. I don’t think that it’s fair to discriminate against Maine Native Americans. Many students that don’t understand about Native Americans make fun of them and the way they talk, act, and live because it is different that the ways they talk, act, and live. I believe that these ways people act about Native Americans need to be changed forever. Good afternoon Senator Mitchell, Representative Richard, and members of the committee. I am Sabrina Bucher. I think that it would be a very good idea to have it be required to teach about Native Americans. A lot of people misunderstand them and think that they are all bad! They believe the sto­ ries and myths that they hear from people who don’t know what they are talking about. People are very quick to judge things when they first see something that is different. The prejudice in our society can re­ ally hurt people’s feelings. Maine Native Americans are a very important part of Maine’s history and they are very misunderstood. Most people think of Native Americans as stupid people who didn’t know how to build houses and buildings and stuff. The truth is that if we were more like Native Americans, then our planet would be a lot healthier, with less extinction and pol­ lution. I think that this is a very important Jaw and it should be passed so at least people will understand about them. Good afternoon Senator Mitchell, Representative Richard, and members of the committee. My name is Abby Wright. I think the bill should be passed. I think if young adults are educated about the culture and history of Native people it would limit discrimination, bias, and misconceptions. In the past young people have been taught only what textbook pages say. This creates misconceptions and what chil­ dren are taught are what they learn. If a sort of igno­ rance is taught the only thing you know is that sort of ignorance. Good afternoon Senator Mitchell, Representative Richard, and members of the committee. I am Jeremy Furst. I believe we should learn about the American Native’s Heritage, they study ours. 1also think we should study their history, because they were in North America before we were. It would be inter­ esting to study and learn the history of the Native Americans. I have always had an interest in the Na­ tive Americans’ ways of life. I believe most of the people of North America have some Indian heritage, even if only a small amount, and would find it inspiring to discover more about their own history. Yet I think along with the good we need to know the bad. I think it is important to know about the deaths of the many natives that occurred while oth­ ers sought only to control those that were already here. The Native American’s History needs to be told and taught. We the people of Maine need to know more about the history of our original forefathers. Thank you for the opportunity to testify. Legislative S entim ents presented during first half of 120th Session (T)TYveresa Hoffman, President, of the Maine Bas­ ket Makers Alliance Whereas, Theresa has dedicated her work towards the advancement of Indian Basket making as a art form; Whereas, her service to the native communities craft people has helped a new generation of basket makers to learn this skill; Whereas, Theresa’s service as President, she has initiated several unique training programs for the youth and other interested people; (2) Gail Sockabasin, Director of the Wabanaki Cen­ ter at the University of Maine at Orono Whereas, her dedicated service in the University system has helped native students gain access to higher education; Whereas, Gail has developed unique programs to interact the University with the Native communities and to help the Native communities interact with the University; (3) Wabanaki Bilingual Program of the Passamaquoddy Tribe at Indian Township and Pleasant Point Whereas, the Tribal language school program was started in 1971 by Mary Ellen Stevens, Anna Hamois and Wayne Newell; Whereas, the current staff of Brenda Polchies, Regina Nicholas and Betsy Tinker of Indian Town­ ship and also Thomas Lewey and Grade Davis of Pleasant Point have helped preserve the Native lan­ guage within the Passamaquoddy communities; Whereas, they have taught the value of preserving the unique culture which has been dated since time immemorial; Whereas, the Bilingual program has published several Passamaquoddy language books and contin­ ues to promote a stronger dialogue within the family; (4) David Westphal, of Acadia Film Video for his work in documenting Wabanaki Tribal stories, such as “A New Dawn” ; Whereas, David has been an active volunteer as a member of a subcommittee for the Maine Tribal State commission Whereas, David has been an participant in pro­ moting an open dialogue between the State and the Wabanaki Tribes; f5)Bp\scopa\ Y)\ocese of Marne, Committee on In­ dian Relations Whereas, the Committee continual works towards strengthening the dialogue in a fair way between the Wabanaki tribe and the State of Maine; Whereas, has assisted the Tribes on several projects to show the unique culture of the Tribes, and Whereas, their presence has had a dramatic effect on helping people understand people of different ethic backgrounds; (6) Maine Tribal State Commission, which is made up of 4 state members, 4 Tribal members, a chair­ man jointly chosen and a director; Whereas, the Maine Indian Land Claims Settle­ ment Act established this commission to interpret the Settlement and numerous other issues; and Whereas, MITSC has also developed several unique training sessions and reports to help foster a better relationship between the State of Maine and the Wabanaki tribes; Whereas, MITSC works closely with the Maine Legislature and the Tribal Governments on legislation affecting the Settlement Act and tribal Relations (7) Passamaquoddy Language Preservation Project, of Pleasant Point, a Passamaquoddy Community in Washington County Whereas, have established a language program to document Passamaquoddy words into a dictionary and a computer program; Whereas, David Francis and Dolly Dana have worked with several State Universities around the country and a International University to promote the Tribal language; Whereas, have been established in the World wide Endangered Language Program and received funding; Whereas, they work as Tribal goodwill Ambassa­ dors to visitors to the Tribal community of Pleasant Point (8)Edward Hinckley Whereas, Edward served as the first Commissioner of the Department of Indian Affair in the State of Maine during the late 1960’s and early 1970’s as a consultant to Indian Affairs; Whereas, Edward was a Commissioner that served for the Tribe to help gain funding to fight malnutri­ tion, increase educational opportunities and to provide decent housing; Whereas, he helped the Maine Legislature to see the effects of the past relationship between the State of Maine and the Passamaquoddy Tribe; Whereas, Edward Hinckley is a man who help de­ termine the future relationship between the State of Maine and the Tribe; Whereas, Edward will always be considered a friend to the Tribe and a friend to the State. Left to right Representatives Donna Loring, Donald Soctomah, Maine House of Representative page Tihtiyas Sabattus and Rep. Al Goodwin of Pembroke �New law to foster respect of Maine's tribes by Darlene Alexander (Reprinted with permissionfrom 11119/01 Times Record) "For Native Americans, Columbus Day's a day of mourning," Donna Loring said when asked what she'd like taught in the Maine schools concerning Chris­ topher Columbus. Loring, a Richmond resident who is the Penobscot Nation's tribal represen­ tative in the Maine Legislature, is hope­ ful the Native American perspective will begin to be reflected more often in Maine classrooms. She sponsored an education bill signed into law by Gov. Angus King on June 14 that requires teachers to educate Maine's students about Maine's Indian history. While other states have approved similar edu­ cation bills, their Indian history is melded into multicultural studies, and educating students about Indians from those states isn't mandated by those states. "Maine's education bill is both his­ toric and unique," Loring said. "It's the only bill of its kind passed in the United States that mandates dinate meeting locations, and provide such detailed topics of Indian history." appropriate materials to implement the The mandated categories are: • Maine tribal governments and their new law that takes affect in the 2004relationships with local, state, national, 2005 school year. The Maine Native American History and international governments. and Culture Commission will seek out Maine native culture systems. • The experiences of and apply for grants to cover distribu­ Maine tribal people through­ tion and development of materials. It out history. also will design teacher workshops that • Maine Native American the University of Maine System will territories, and Maine Native sponsor. The commission's work will American economics system. minimize the cost of, and allow easy The new education law access to, the necessary teaching aids. LD291 establishes a Maine For example, Loring said, the Native American History and development of a Web site would allow Culture Commission that will teachers to download the information act as a clearing house for re­ needed from each category, thus reduc­ sources such as curriculum ing expenses. "Creating these cost-effective pro­ already developed, or in the process of being developed, cedures illustrates the ease of imple­ Rep. Loring with Governor Barry Dana Loring said. The commission menting the education bill nationally," will consider information she said. concerning present-day issues that affect Loring hopes the new bill, mentioned Testimony of Rep. Donna M. Loring on Indian culture, such as clean water, clean favorably on that level, will encourage November 5, 2001 before a committee to air and clean land. other states to enact a similar bill. She Loring has a high regard for the pub­ believes the implementation of Indian Review The Child Protective System lished book "Wabanaki's of Maine and history will greatly enhance Maine Good Morning Senator Turner, Representative LaVerdiere the Maritimes," which is designed to children's history because Maine history And members of the Committee teach grades 1-8. It has lesson plans and and Indian history are interwoven. I am Representative Donna M Loring, of the Penobscot Nation provides accurate details about Maine "I hope the implementation of I am here today to bring to the committee’s attention the situation that exists Indian history. Maine's Indian history into the schools "It is the best book available because will help future generations understand in Houlton between the Houlton Band of Maliseet Indians and the State of Maine. it's the only book written to date by the Maine Indian culture and history," First I would like you to hear a little bit about the Indian Child Welfare Act. 25 Maine tribes about their own history," she said. "We will become real people USCA ss 1901. states: see attached federal law. she said. "All Maine tribes contributed to the children of the future. They will The whole purpose of the Act is to protect Indian Children from being taken to its contents." see us as people who have contributed away in great numbers from their culture and their heritage. The Indian Child The Maine Native American History to Maine history and as a valued inte­ Welfare Act was crafted and passed by the US Congress and supersedes any and Culture Commission's orientation gral part of Maine itself. With education conflicting laws. meeting took place on Oct. 19 with the will come understanding, and with un­ Today in Houlton the Houlton Band of Maliseets face an unprecedented Maine Indian Tribal State Commission derstanding will come respect, and with taking of their children by the State, twenty-nine children in the past five years. acting as an umbrella agency. The tribal respect will come partnership." I see this not only as a failure on the part of DHS to place Indian children in state commission's role will be to facili­ DARLENE ALEXANDER is a tate meetings, provide staff time, coor­ freelance writer who lives in Harpswell. extended families but also a failure on the part of the judicial system to imple­ ment the Indian Child Welfare Act. The loss of that many children to a tribe Does Maine reaffy want ctean water? numbering approximately six Hundred members is nothing less than genocide. by Rep. Donald Soctomah When an Indian Tribe loses it’s children it loses it’s future. Does Maine really want clean water? These numbers are more than five times the national average. The vast ma­ That was the question I asked myself last summer, I believe that the people of jority of children taken are being placed in non-native foster care homes. Paren­ Maine want clean water. Does the Legislature? Or is it going to be status quo? tal rights are being terminated at an alarming rate. I ask this committee to focus During this session of the Legislature Rep. Tom Bull introduced a bill, LD 704 An its attention on this issue and ask you why is this happening? Are DHS workers Act to Create a River and Stream Restoration Fund,” which I co-sponsored. This following Indian Child Welfare Act procedures? More importantly are the proper fund will be created from the fine money collected from pollution violations, the procedures being followed by the court system? money currently goes into the General Fund, where it is spent on a variety of other Are Judges informed and are they implementing the Indian Child Welfare issues including possibly tax rebates for the same pollution violators. Something is Act procedures in their Indian Child Welfare hearings? As some of you know I wrong here! How much money from the pollution violation goes back towards the am a member of the Joint Standing Committee on Judiciary. Last month we held Judicial Confirmation hearings. During those hearings river clean up operation? I asked at least two judicial candidates if they were familiar with the Indian By law, no money has Child Welfare Act. One of the candidates was honest enough to say no he was to be spent towards the not. I received a letter from that individual a few days later wanting me to know clean up operation on that river! I just could not be­ that he had become familiar with the Act. He said and I quote.”In particular, I am now mindful of the underlying pur­ lieve this! If a pollution vio­ lation occurred on the great poses of the Act to protect the interests not only of individual Indian children and families, but also the interests of the tribes themselves in achieving long rivers of Maine, shouldn’t term tribal survival. Among other things I am also now mindful of the height­ the fine money go towards ened evidentiary standard of proof beyond a reasonable doubt as a precondition the clean up of that viola­ to the termination of the parental rights of an Indian parent. I hope that I am tion? That was the question never called upon to apply this law in the performance of my judicial responsi­ I posed at the public hear­ bilities but should that occur, I have you to thank for calling the Act to my atten­ ing in the State House on Governor Richard Doyle, Rep. Soctomah tion and I do thank you for this contribution to my continuing legal education. March 20th. The concept of and Judith Lucarelli I would think that if this Judge did not know about the Indian Child Welfare this as a precedent and are afraid that dedicating funds towards a bill like the Act then there must be others. River and Stream Restoration Fund the DEP may be more aggressive to­ I do not like to criticize without offering some recommendations. One of my would go against the grains of the State wards pollution violators. What kind of recommendations to you would be to provide training to the judiciary on the logic is that? If a violation occurred, than House. Indian Child Welfare Act. The training could be accomplished by using experts But there is precedent, the fines a fine should be charged! The people in the field on a national level. There is a disconnect between the State Court which are collected from violations of down river of a pollution violation system and the Tribes on many levels. There should be an Indian advocate placed , Fish and Game Laws goes back into the would agree. within the State Court system to be a liaison between the courts and the tribes. It’s time to change the status quo, Inland and Fisheries Department oper­ An Indian advocate could help fill this void. ating budget, this was done through a and use this fine money where it is in­ Finally, the Houlton Band of Maliseets does not have their own Court sys Constitutional Amendment. This is tended to go, and that is towards the tern to hear their child welfare cases. I have submitted a bill this session that will working towards the protection of clean up of rivers where the pollution allow the Houlton Band of Maliseets to bring their child welfare cases to the Maine’s wildlife, a good working con­ violations occurred. Penobscot Nation’s Tribal Court until they can create their own court system, Donald Soctomah, Passamaquoddy cept. Why can’t this work for the River strongly urge this committee’s full support of that bill and the above recommen Representative and Stream Fund? Maine Legislature dations. The Pulp And Paper Industry have Thank you. different ideas, they don’t want to see �TEN THOUSAND EAGLES by Donna M Loving Ten thousand eagles flew that day across the bright blue sky to meet the spirits on their way from fiery smoke filled tombs. They soared above the dark, black, clouds billowing from the earth and hovered for a moment there and saw the face of doom. Ten thousand eagles gathered and swooped down beneath the clouds. They found the spirits one by one and plucked them from their plight. They carried each new spirit through the black and hate filled clouds. They gave them each a shelter wrapped in warm wings oh so tight. They gave them strength and comfort too on their unexpected flight. On swift wings they flew towards their final destination where each spirit knew without any hesitation Ten thousand eagles flew that day as all the world stood still and watched in shock and horror as the trag­ edy unfurled. Now we are left here on this earth to face the billowing clouds and our eyes search for the eagles as we say our prayers out loud. May our spirits soar on eagle's wings above the dark black clouds of hatred, murder and revenge that keep us hatred bound. Ten thousand eagles flew that day as all the world stood still. The eagles flew above those clouds perhaps some day W e w ill. There would be peace and love and harmony they would forever be wrapped within the eagles wings through all eternity. Others testifying at public hearing Rep. Loring Would Like to Thank the Following for Their Support of LD 291, An Act to Require Teaching of Maine Native American History and Culture in Maine’s Schools: Mary Cathcart - Orono State Senator Linda McKee - Wayne State Representative Joanne Twomey - Biddeford State Representative Donald Soctomah, Passamaquoddy Tribal Rep. Mary Griffith & the following Philip W. Sugg Middle School of Lisbon Students: Sabrina Boucher Megan Fillmore Kristen Ruby Abby Wright Allison Smith-Poulin Jeremy Furst Kristen Ackley Sikwani Bea Dana - Penobscot Nation Roger S. Smith - Episcopal Church David Westphal - Acadia Film/ Video Judy Lucarelli - Dept, of Education Diana Scully - Maine Indian Tribal State Commision Jerome Storm Margaret Fearon Kathleen Perkins London J. Mitchell, Social Justice & Truth in Flistory (Founder/ President) Rebecca Cole-Will - Abbe Museum Carolyn Harrington Maureen Smith, PHD, Wabanaki Center Margo Lukens UMO English Dept. Karen Marysdaughter - Social Justice & Truth in History Tony Brinkley Chair of English Dept, at UMO Evie Hoffman Janice Church Gail Sockabasin - Passamaquoddy Member, Wabanaki Center & Basketry Debbie Burd - Western Mountain Alliance Ex. Dir. Margaret M. Mitchell Marilyn Roper Peter Rees Mike Walton Sherri Mitchell Penobscot Nation Member Carmen LaVertu Diane Steward - Senate Democratic Office Brain Reynolds Rebecca Sockbeson -University of Southern Maine Ron Jenkins - Maine Indian Education Superintendent Richard Silliboy-Micmac/Pres. Maine Indian Basketmakers Alliance Tirrell Kimball Robert Norell Robert Ho - ME Rural Dev. Council Executive Dir. Butch Phillips-Penobscot Member, Speaker, Birchbark Canoes & Moose Calls Earnest Foust Jana Mayfield Mullen Barney Berube - Dept, of Education Jessica Sockbeson Macgregor Penobscot Member Esther Attean - Penobscot Nation Dept, of Social Services Winnie & Alex Macphedran American Friends Service Committee Jay Adams - Old Fort Western Charlotte Ritter Newell Lewey Debbie Brooks Betts Swanton - Abbe Museum Jan Kremin - USDA Rural Development Rhonda Frey - Penobscot Nation ssipsis & Georgia Mitchell Penobscot Nation, Writer, Artist, Basketry Eric Jorgenson - Maine Humanities Council Tribal Leaders William Phillips, Micmacs Brenda Commander, Maliseets Richard Stevens, Passamaquoddy (I.T.) Richard Doyle, Passamaquoddy (P.P.) Barry Dana, Penobscot Nation �LD 291, An Act to Require Teaching of Maine Native American History and Culture in Maine’s Schools Testimony at hearing Good Afternoon Senator Mitchell Representative Richard and members of the Joint Committee On Education and Cultural Affairs. I am Donna M Loring, the Repre­ sentative of the Penobscot Nation to the Maine State Legislature. I am here to present LD 291 An Act to Require Teaching of Maine Native American History and Culture in Maine’s Schools. Maine history and Maine Indian his­ tory are interwoven. You cannot teach one without the other. Make no mistake, we are unlike any other ethnic group and to compare us to minority groups and groups such as the boy scouts shows a trem endous lack of knowledge. Wabanaki tribes were here long before the Europeans came to this continent. We had our own governments, our own traditions, language and culture. We have left our mark on the State of Maine with names of Wabanaki origins such as Allagash, Androscoggin, Aroostook, Caribou, Carrabasset, Katahdin, K e n d u s k e a g , K e n n e b u n k , Norridgewock, Ogunquit, Olamon, P e n o b s c o t , Passamaquoddy, Piscatatquis, Sebago, Skowhegan, and Wiscasset (just to name a few). The Penobscot, Passamaquoddy, Micmac and M aliseet tribes played a prominent role during the revolutionary War in securing the boundaries of the State more about the history of my position and my people. I was never taught one word about my tribal history in Maine schools. I realized that the average Maine citizen knew nothing about Maine Indian history let alone current Indian issues. I also found that I was spending much of my time educating and re-educating my legislative col­ leagues. I came to the conclusion that Maine Indian history needs to be taught in the Maine schools. The state of Maine and the Wabanaki tribes have a history together and this needs to be recognized through education. It is only through edu­ cation and communication that we can build a foundation of trust and partnership. The relationship that exists between the State and the Tribes is like no other we now call Maine. When Maine re­ quested to be separated from Massachu­ setts one of the conditions of its State­ hood was to honor the obligations that Massachusetts had with the Maine tribes. Since 1820 when Maine became a State one hundred and eighty one years ago it has had a constant relationship with the tribes. That one hundred and eighty one year relationship has gone un­ noticed in the history books as well as in the classrooms. Only recently has it started to cotae to light. When I was elected to the State Leg­ islature in October of 1997,1 came into the legislative process in mid- stream. I had no idea of the one hundred and eighty one year history of my position as a Tribal Representative or the fact that Maine is the only State that has Tribal Representatives seated in their legisla­ tive body. In April of 1999, The legisla­ ture created a Joint Standing Commit­ tee to study the history of the Tribal rep­ resentatives and their duties and pow­ ers. It was through this study commit­ tee and the research we did that I learned nationally or internationally. In fact within the past two years other countries and states have looked to Maine as a model for representation of their indig­ enous peoples. New South whales, Aus­ tralia sent a delegation to Maine in 1997 and New Brunswick, Canada showed interest in 1998. Representative Schneider and I just returned from a trip to Wisconsin. That State and its eleven tribes are looking for models of Tribal State relations and requested our participation through a presentation. They compared models from Oregon, Washington and Arizona but were most impressed with ours. Maine as a result of its historic rela­ tionship with the tribes has become a na­ tional and international model. I ask you to vote this bill out of committee as ought to pass. It is time we started to educate our children about our historically unique partnership. Let understanding and communication through education be the building blocks of anew Tribal State relationship, one that recognizes and honors the struggles and contributions of its native people. Thank you. Good afternoon Senator Mitchell, Representative Richard, and members of the committee. I am Rep. Donald Soctomah of the Passamaquoddy Tribe Tan Kahk, welcome; The time has come for the State of Maine and the Tribes of Maine; Passamaquoddy, Penobscot, Maliseet, Micmac and Abanaki; to be the leaders in establishing a new era in bettering the relationship and creating a mutual un­ derstanding. For so long the people of the state have not known about the na­ tive people because of the lack of teach­ ing Native history. Now the Maine leg­ through 1989 I was the program direc­ tor for the Wabanaki Program of the American Friends Service Committee.’ This program worked to increase under­ standing and diminish tensions between Native and non-Native people in Maine. Currently I am a seventh-grade science teacher at Philip W. Sugg Middle School in Lisbon Falls. During the last four or five years that I was staff person with the Wabanaki Program, I was the coordinator and one of the writers for a project that produced The Wabanakis of Maine and the Maritimes, a 500-page curriculum guide for educators teaching about Wabanaki people at all educational levels. The book was written in response to Maine educators’ requests for materials that they could use in class­ rooms to teach about Maine Indian history and culture. I worked closely with a committee of Wabanaki people from Maine and the Maritimes, members of four tribes or nations who decided what to include in the book and how it should be pre­ sented. Numerous his­ torians, anthropolo­ gists, and archaeolo­ gists worked with us as well, review ing die cexc and providing schol­ arly perspectives on a variety of topics. In ad­ dition, more than a hundred Maine educa­ tors were Involved, telling us what they needed in the class­ room, field-testing our materials, and helping islature has passed the first of its kind legislation, to teach native history in the public school system. Now we follow the path laid before us, the sharing of a unique culture and the learning of a living growing culture; from surviving in the ice age with gla­ ciers a mile high, to changing ways of life to meet the changes in the environ­ ment, to helping defend this country’s freedom in all wars that were fought. The long term goal of this bill will be that the people of Maine will understand that Maine history is also Native history, they go hand in hand, and to appreciate the unique culture of the Maine Tribes. The legislation will create an under­ standing that will bond and honor the Tribes and the people of Maine. Maine will lead the nation with the implementation of this legislation and hopefully other states will follow. Good afternoon Senator Mitchell, Rep­ resentative Richard, and members of the committee. I am Mary Griffith. From 1978 to critique the.book. For the many volunteers involved in the project, this was a labor of love. We worked to present well-balanced infor­ mation and perspectives, believing that our work would result in increased un­ derstanding and fewer feelings of mis­ trust between Native and Non-Native communities. We included a historical perspective on the thousands of years that Native people lived in Maine be­ fore Europeans arrived, and continued the story right up to present day, which few history books do. When writing about periods of conflict we were care­ ful to treat all sides with respect and to try to consider all participants’ motiva­ tions and viewpoints. I was struck by the respect people who were involved in this project had for each other. Members of the Native writing committee came from different communities, different nations, and dif­ ferent backgrounds, and they had differ­ ing viewpoints on many issues. When con­ sensus was not possible, the committee inplease turn to page 5 �Bills of interest proposed for the Second Session of the 120th Maine Legislature by D onna Loring minutes. I urge you to recognize the importance of this bill as a tool to TITLE: An Act to Specifically Exempt Tribal Proceedings and Documents from the State Freedom o f Access Laws. This bill would specify that the state freedom of access laws do not apply to any tribal proceeding or documents held by the tribe. Amending the Freedom of Access Laws in such a manner would solidify future secu­ rity for intra-tribal maters and prevent unnecessary judicial conflicts be­ tween tribes and the state over jurisdiction of access to tribal proceedings and documents. For any bill to be allowed into legislative session during the second session it must be of an emergency nature. The Legislative Council voted not to allow this bill in and I appealed the decision on November 13th be­ fore the Legislative Council I made the following argument: A potentially explosive situation exists between the State and the Tribes as a result of a pending court case. This bill would not affect the pending case; However the tribes fear that the State and the paper companies are trying to extinguish their existence as tribal governments and make them political subdivisions of the state. This bill would calm those fears and would show the tribes that the State recognizes their right to exist as tribal governments and their right to protect internal tribal documents and council address the real fears of the tribes. The Council voted against allowing the bill into this session. The vote was five to five. That same day I found out the US Supreme Court had denied our appeal. I tried to get the council to reconsider but they refused. I am hoping to try again later this session. TITLE: An Act to Authorize the Trial o f Child Welfare Cases Involving the Houlton Band ofMaliseet Indians in the Penobscot Tribal Court. This bill would provide that, until such time that the Houlton Band of Maliseet Indians has their own tribal court, all child welfare cases must be tried in the Penobscot Tribal Court as the Court of original jurisdiction The Legislative Council allowed this bill in. The State Department of Human Services and the Office of Attorney General are in favor of the bill so far. This bill was submitted to assist the Maliseet Tribe in keeping custody of their children. The very survival of the Maliseet Tribe depends on future generations. The State DHS removed twenty nine children from Maliseet homes in the past five years. Only four of the twenty-nine were placed in an Indian home. Maine State Museum Tribute to Vivian F. Massey, Spring 2001 Outstanding Maine Indian Portrait Project Vivian F. Massey, the first graduated from Old Town High Tribal Representatives cannot wom an P enobscot N ation School, attended post junior busi­ vote but are allowed to present Representative, was elected to ness college, and was employed legislation.) the Maine State Legislature in by the University of Maine at ruary 22,1998. Her portrait dedi­ 1972. Vivian, who served up Orono C ha ncellor’s Office in cation in the Maine State Museum to 1974, also was on the Bangor. in Augusta, one of the first out of Vivian died on Feb­ Penobscot Tribal Council for Vivian won her election as a several in the rotating Outstand­ six years as the Tribal Clerk write-in candidate by only a four- and served on the Indian Edu­ cation Advisory Board. vote margin after a late night re­ count that ended at around 2:00 am. Vivian was not able to vote ing Maine Indian Portrait Project, is still on display until January 5th and will be permanently placed in Vivian was born on March 29,1927 on Indian Island. She or present legislation. the state capitol afterwards. Vivian F. M assey (Today, Tribal issues before the last Legislative Session LD#1178 - Sponsor: SOCTOMAH Short Title: DHS TO ADOPT RULES REGARDING IN­ DIAN HEALTH CLINIC Original Title: Resolve, Di­ recting the Department of Human Services to Adopt Rules Regarding the Indian Health Clinic LD#0618 - Sponsor: SOCTOMAH Short Title: REMOVE STATE ROAD SIGNS WITH OFFEN­ SIVE NAMES FROM 1-95 & TURNPIKE Original Title: An Act to Re­ move State Road Signs with Offensive Names from Inter­ state Route 95 and the Maine Turnpike LD#0523 Sponsor: SOCTOMAH Short Title: CREATE A SPE­ CIAL MAINE INDIAN TRIBE LICENSE PLATE Original Title: An Act to Create a Special Maine Indian Tribe License Plate - LD#0517 - Sponsor: SOCTOMAH Short Title: ESTABLISH IDENTIFICATION CARD OF ME INDIAN TR AS ACCEPT­ ABLE FORM OF ID Original Title: An Act to Establish the Identification Card of a Maine Indian Tribe as an Acceptable Form of Identification Tribal Representative Donald Soctomah from page 1 concerning Native prisoners treatment was not accepted in this session, but I did speak to Governor King and he has scheduled a meeting to discuss this. Representative Morrison has introduced a Bill concern­ ing Passamaquoddy Land in Calais, allowing for 100 acres to be purchased by the Tribe for business development. If you have any questions, LD#0107 - Sponsor: you can call me at 287-1400 in SOCTOMAH Augusta or 796-2301 at Indian Short Title: ENFORCEMENT OF Township. LAWS IN T. 12 REVSTATBY You can also stop by the PASSAMAQUODDY WARDEN Maine Statehouse and I would Original Title: An Act Regarding be available to show you around the Enforcement of Laws in the and answer questions. Maine Revised Statutes, Title 12 by Passamaquoddy Wardens woliwon Rep. Donald Soctomah, Passamaquoddy Tribe LD#0516 - Sponsor: SOCTOMAH Short Title: ARCHAEOLOGI­ CAL WORK PERFORMED IN THE SHORELAND ZONES Original Title: An Act Regard­ ing Prehistoric and Historic Archaeological Work Per­ formed in the Shoreland Zone �Jf Jf Jf Jf 3f Jf 3f Jf 3f >(■4 4 4 4 4 4 4 4 4 44 4 4 4 4 4 4 4 44 4 4 4 4 4 4 4 44 4 4 4 4 4 4 4 44 4 4 � Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource <em>Wabanaki Legislative News </em>(Nov. 2001) Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Loring, Donna M. and Donald Soctomah Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived University of New England Maine Women Writers Collection Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 2001-11 Contributor An entity responsible for making contributions to the resource Cathleen Miller, UNE Julia Brush Rights Information about rights held in and over the resource Donna M. Loring and Donald G. Soctomah. Used with permission. We thank University of New England for making digitized copies available. Language A language of the resource English Type The nature or genre of the resource Document Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource pdf Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context DV-475 https://www.dawnlandvoices.org/collections/files/original/ac7e71d547278d6b8080eafb07d4858c.pdf 84b3071d5744255a793941d2b2f4cca9 PDF Text Text Wabanaki Legislative Update ~ SprinQ 2000 Offensive Name law passed by Maine Legislature iA k waits Governor’s Signatured Tan Kahk, Greetings1 Dear Tribal Members, Welcome to the second edition of the “Wabanaki Legislative Update.” This newsletter is put together to inform the public on Legislative issues that affect the native communities of the Passamaquoddy, Penobscot, Micmac, and Maliseet. I have enjoyed my first session in 1999 and look forward to my service in the year 2001 next session. In the Second Regular Session we will be addressing the following issues: • LD 2418 An Act Concerning Offensive Names • LD An Act to Implement the Recommendations Concerning Indian Archeological Sites • LD 2178 An Act to Amend the Act to Implement the Maine Indian Claims Settlement Concerning the Houlton Band of Maliseet Indians • LD 2499 An Act Concerning the Date by Which Land Must be Acquired by the Penobscot Nation • LD 3210 An Act to Change the Name in the Statutes of a Native Ameri can Organization Able to Issue Hunting and Fishing Licenses The bill. An Act Concerning Offensive Names, has received much national media publicity and this shows that Maine is a leader in this area that address issues such as this. We have held interviews with 2 in-state radio stations, 5 outof-state radio stations, and 2 British radio stations; also, an interview was taped with ABC’s 20/20 show, (which was very badly reported). Your help in the passage of this bill was the deciding factor, especially the young women who stepped forward to speak from their hearts, thank you. Other measures that we followed closely, which may have an impact on the native communities, involved the Department of Human Services, especially child welfare, education, and marine fisheries bills. Be part of the process; let your voices be heard! I would like to hear from you on issues, which may help our communities. If you have any questions or concerns, please feel free to contact me at any of the following numbers: State House 287-1400 Indian Township office 796-2301 ~ Pleasant Point office 853-2600 Mobile 461-8673 ~ email: soctomah@nemaine.com Passamaquoddy website www.wabanaki.com Welcome to the Second Regular Session of the 119th Legislature. This is called the short session, and is comprised mostly of carry over bills and emer­ gency measures. Carry overs are bills that were not acted on in the First Regular Session. Emergency bills are determined by the Legislative Council to be of an emergency nature. This session is scheduled to adjourn in early April 2000. Again, in a joint effort, we bring you the second edition of the Maine Tribal Legislative News/Wabanaki Legislative Update, in one complete format. Items of interest are a history section and current issues, including an in depth look at the offensive names bill, LD 2418, sponsored by Representative Soctomah. Also, included are photos of Wabanaki Day, which was held at the Statehouse last session. We have charted our proposed bills for this short session with a brief expla­ nation of each one, as we did in the first edition. You have shown your support for these bills by attending the public hearings. Your presence spoke louder than words! If you have comments, concerns or questions, please do not hesitate to contact me either by telephone, snail mail, or e-mail, as follows: Telephone/Fax 207-737-2608 55 North Front St., Richmond, ME 04357 dmldab @wiscasset.net I wish you health and happiness for the new millennium. Yours in the Spirit of Unity, // . /vj, / * * /*<? ---- -/- Donna M. Loring Penobscot Nation, Tribal Representative Wabanaki Legislative Update Rep. Donna Loring 55 North Front S t, Richmond, ME 04357 Rep. Donald Soctomah P.O. Box 102, Princeton, ME 04668 Woliwon, Thanks, Donald Soctomah Tribal Representative, Passamaquoddy Tribe Printed at the expense of Representatives Soctomah and Loring �OFFENSIVE NAME TO BE REMOVED FROM PUBLIC PLACES Testimonials for and against LD 2418 - An Act Concerning Offensive Names —Patricia Smith Ranzoni, Bucksport Because of medical troubles I was unable to attend the hearing on the bill to remove the word “squaw” from M aine place nam es; and for same reasons do not feel up to the letter this subject deserves. Neverthe­ less, I must add my voice, and the voice of my family, to the record on behalf of this important legislation and appreciate the opportunity to in­ sert testimony, however inadequate, this way. From the time I learned we are d escended from E uropeans w ho settled on land belonging to Native Peoples, I have sought to educate m yself and our family on what is known and unknown about our part in history here as related to the tribes. This path could only lead to great sorrow, as well as humbling gratitude for an “old love, too, between us,” as I have written in my poetry in honor of generational relationships between some N ative friends and some in our line. It has long troubled me that our, M aine’s, First Peoples are routinely expected to support special efforts— days, conferences, discussions, occa­ sions, organizations, legislation and so forth— aimed at promoting “diver­ sity” and an understanding of and be­ tween other races and cultures here, while their own situation and dis­ crim in atio n s o ften rem ain o v er­ looked or discounted. The matter of the usage of squaw, a remnant of old thinking, in much the same way as “nigger” has come to be seen, is but one example. One can only guess how it must feel for tribal members to have to appear before a legislature made up of descendants of those who invaded and, by means not wholly honorable, as the record shows, took over their homelands, to ask for understanding in this matter of great meaning for their people. If M aine’s Native Peoples aren’t included in what is meant by recent efforts toward cross-cultural respect, then the easy term “diversity” rings hollow; and without the hard and painful work to hear and act upon what is needed to make things right, is nothing but a hollow, false, and cruel term with little more meaning than any other social fad. From reports in the newspapers, tribal representatives and members have articulated most clearly, pas­ sionately, and successfully the ratio­ nale for their request. They are their own indisputable source. I want to speak, also, as a woman here. Having no right to call M aine’s first and least known women “sis­ ters,” I nevertheless, stand with them in outrage against the reality of what this word has meant in their lives. That non-Natives have inexcusably endowed this word with shame, here and around the world, is irrefutable, having been docum ented through both folk and scholarly histories. It can never be righted but through changes the Natives, themselves, ask for in order to retrieve their honor. Please listen. Let it not, again, be solely about the lesser profit of business, but this time, about the greater profit of hu­ man respect. We cannot undo what has been done, but we can begin new, now that we know. We can return the mountains, rivers, islands and points to the Native women of this place in this way. First, proclaiming sorrow for what has been taken, then invit­ ing them to name these places in a new spirit of presence we can honor, protect, and celebrate with them. Please. For our family, ancestors and de­ scendants. please turn to page 3 Maine’s Native Americans Gain Passage of LD 2418 by Representative Donald Soctomah As we enter a new millen­ nium, I have hope for a better relationship between the native population and the State of M aine. In order for us to achieve this improved relationship, we must end 400 years of hurt and discrimination. We must learn to live together peacefully, by hon­ oring and respecting each other. This hope was the motivat­ ing factor behind legislation that would end the use of a demoral­ izing and dehumanizing term in the State of Maine. The passage of this bill by the Maine House or Represen­ tatives and Senate will soon be signed into law by Governor Angus S. King, Jr.. It w ill rem ove the word squaw from place names in the state. This is not an issue of politi­ cal correctness. It is about basic human decency and respect for one’s fellow citizens. The new law protects an under repre­ sented group in our state, native women. Our wom en-grandmothers, mothers, and daugh­ ters, are all entitled to protection against basic human rights vio­ lations, such as the use of demor­ alizing language. The driving force behind this bill is hundreds of native women, who are con­ tinually offended by the use of this fensive, derogatory words. Native assaulted by two men, who con­ women have the right to define tinually yelled, “you dirty slang word. The Thesaurus of Slang iden­ themselves. squaw ” as they repeatedly tifies the word “squaw” as a syn­ We need to grow and under­ kicked her. onym for prostitute,, harlot, hussy, stand that the use of the term In 1998, there was a high and floozy. The dictionary identi­ squaw shows a lack of compas­ school fight that eventually fies this word as one that is used sion to human beings, it is hard turned into a racial incident. N a­ for the general population to imag­ tive girls were called squaws, to offend native females. After generations of exposure, ine how hurtful a word can be un­ this resulted in death threats be­ the word squaw is seen as a neu­ less it is directed toward them, ing painted on the walls. This new law sends, with tral word to the general public. But their culture, or racial background. Rep. Gerald Talbot worked great effectiveness, a goodwill to native females this word con­ tinues to be a slanderous attack diligently in 1974 to remove the message of understanding to the against them and their culture. ”N” word from place names in Native people of this state: Violent incidents occur more of­ Maine. He had to convince other Maine will stop sanctioning the ten near the native communities, representatives how hurtful and use of offensive words, which where the clash between cultures hateful this word is to Maine citi­ dehumanize and exploit the na­ zens and its visitors. tive people. still exists. During that floor debate, the The native people and the When native people name a geographic feature, such as a river offensiveness of the word squaw native communities of Maine, or a mountain, the term used will was questioned. Several represen­ askd for the passage of this bill describe a specific location, for the tatives stated that to the native to end the perpetuation of dehu­ ease of the traveler, or to denote population, it was an offensive manizing language that has been its spiritual significance. The term. This is not a new issue to used to define our women. It is never an aggressive act name of the Kennebec River de­ Maine, it is a 400 year old issue for a people to exercise their scribes the contours of the river. that needs to be stopped Nationally, Maine now joins right to self determination. It is Mount Katahdin was named to three other states which have re­ an intrinsic right that is woven signify the spirits of the mountain moved the word squaw from name into the fiber of values that this and its geography. The term squaw was not origi­ places. In North Carolina, the U.S. country was founded on. The following Cheyenne nally used for place names, as the Justice Department was involved word did not exist before the in the removal of the word from a proverb summarizes the point of 1600’s. It is not a linguist’s defi­ school system in March of 1999. this bill concisely, “A nation is There is no other word used to­ never conquered until the hearts nition of the original native word day which hurts native women as of its women are on the ground.” that is of concern, it is the way the Every time this defamatory term has been used to define na­ much as the word squaw. The term tive women in its current context. has been used as a slanderous as­ term is used, the hearts of our Through communication and edu­ sault in hate crimes; last year, a women take another blow. cation we can rid the state of of- native woman was being brutally OFFENSIVE NAME TO BE REMOVED FROM PUBLIC PLACES �FFENS aga'"S’have a chance to change women. We BLIC L° 2411-* " A tlensive Names from page 2 c l O come to be felt as the word whore that sexual connotation and to give the respect to Native women that they feels... dirty, degrading, and shameful. My people have suffered great in d ig n atio n u n d er w hite rule in Houlton for many generations. We did not have a land base before 1980 but for safety and community, our families settled in the same area.... always delegated to the least desirable land, tor behind the legislation, w hich would remove the word squaw from deserve. Being a Native man, and the father of seven daughters, I do not want to see them, or anyone else’s daughter, have to carry these verbal scars for the rest of their lives. This Bill will send, with great effectiveness, a goodwill message of understanding to the Native people of this State: That Maine will stop sanctioning the use o f offensive place nam es w ithin the State o f Maine. This is not an issue about political correctness; it is about basic human decency and respect for one’s fellow citizens. It is not a linguist’s definition of the original Native word words that dehumanize and exploit the Native people. The Native comm unities o f the Passam aquoddy, Penobscot, M aliseet and M icMac, including elected governmental officials of these Tribes, representing is of concern; it is the way the term has been used to define Native " ~ H“ w om en in its c u rre n t co n te x t. 7,500 people, have signed a resolu- Donald Soctomah Judiciary Com m ittee - C hairs Senator Longley and Representative Thompson. Today is an im portant day in Maine Native history. We are step­ ping forw ard to address a term , which has been used for many years to degrade and dehumanize native women. This was the motivating fac- . • r , „ Through communication and education we can rid this State of offensive, derogatory words, so that Native women will have the right to define themselves. This Bill seeks to protect an under represented group within this State, N ative Women. T hey are e n title d to p ro te c tio n against basic hum an rights violations, such as the use o f demoralizing language. The driving force be­ hind this Bill is the hundreds of Na­ tive Women, who are continually offended by the use of this slang word. To the general public, after generations of exposure, the word squaw is seen as a neutral word, but to the Native Women this word con­ tinues to be a slanderous attack against them and their culture. In ra­ cial incidents involving hate and physical violence this word is con­ tinually used to attack Native people. These incidents occur more often near the Native communities, where unfortunately the clash of the cultures still exists. We need to grow and understand that the use of the term squaw shows a lack of compassion for human be­ ings. It is hard for the general popu­ lation to imagine how hurtful a word can be unless it is directed at them, their culture, or their racial back­ ground. In other areas where the squaw word is used to define geographic features, we can enhance the history of the area by using the correct terms. For example, Squaw Mountain can be called M aquaso M ountain in honor of C hief K ineo’s mother to whom the legend refers. A nother place, called Squaw Bosom, makes a c o n n o ta tio n to w ard s N ativ e o f the Year of the Native Woman. We ask the State of Maine and the Federal government to recognize this d e c i ­ ration by stopping the use of the term squaw. One experience that is burned into my memory was coming home one day and seeing a big road sign at the end of our road that said SQUAW KNOLL. When I entered my home I found my mother in tears... she was so humiliated Can you for a moment im a g in e imagine how a black American finding a sign »ad e - e d by ,he ,„w „ gov—— ernment at the end of their road that read Niqger Knoll would feel? We felt no less insulted. My mother made my two brothers go down and remove the sign. It was a very courageous act because she knew that they could be charged with tampering with town property. But it was Today you will hear testimony on how the S .... word is being used against Native women. You need to listen because the vast general popu- m ore im portant to not allow our lation does not get to hear this, now people to be treated with such bla­ is the time for this to be told. tant racism. The sign did not return... I ask for passage of this Bill to the road now carries the name Co&an end the perpetuation of dehumaniz­ Road. ing language that has been used to Long before the current debate define Native women. It is never an over the word began we shared the aggressive act for a people to exer­ common experience of being taunted cise their right to self-determination. by the word squaw. Women of my It is an intrinsic right that is woven tribe describe the taunting they were into the fiber of values that this coun­ subjected to in the 60’s in downtown try was founded upon. Houlton as children and teenagers, being surrounded by local w hite youth giving their imitation (as seen -Brenda Commander, TYibal on television) of an Indian war cry Chief, Houlton Band of Maliseet and calling them squaws. N ative Indians young people did not venture down­ Good M orning. I come before town alone ... but even in the com­ you this morning as a Native woman, pany of others they were not safe­ daughter, mother of a daughter, and guarded from verbal assaults... and the Chief of the Houlton Band of it certainly did not come from young Maliseet Indians, to tell you how the people only.... it was just as likely to use of the word squaw has affected come from an adult. my life, and that of my mother... my I would like to be able to say that sisters... my aunt’s... and the lives of such things would not happen today all the women of my tribe. but I cannot. As recently as two years I have not spoken to even one ago, one o f our trib al eld ers, a Maliseet woman who is not offended woman, was standing in front of the by the use of the word squaw. We do C ounty courthouse in dow ntow n not know how the word originated... H oulton, w hen a group o f youth but we are certain it did not origi­ circled her doing their imitation of a nate from our tongue. We did not use war yelp, calling her ’squaw’. It was the term to describe ourselves; it was a devastating experience for her... cast upon us by the white settlers. We bringing back all the old hurts. are unsure of its original meaning, As a people who for so long have but we do know how it came to be not had a voice that was heard in used. It has been used to taunt and Maine we did not feel empowered to degrade us as women. The word has even think about addressing this is- s u e .... we are th a n k fu l to Rep. Soctomah, for bringing this issue to the public conscience and giving us a voice. —Emma Nicolar My name is Emma Nicolar. I am a 58-year-old Penobscot woman. I want to express my gratitude to those individuals who have worked so hard and persistently to get this bill where it is today. This “Act” is a long time overdue. I am a P en o b sco t In d ian woman— I am not a “squaw” al­ though I have been called that many times in my life. I don’t have the time to detail here how detrimental this societal abuse was to the develop- n ie ^ f ZZZZ. Z I won’t go into what I’ve had to do to heal from the pain that it inflicted, but I did heal. I was born on the Penobscot Indian R eservation in Maine in 1942 but grew up in other areas other than the reservation. My parents separated when I was around 4 years old and I went to live in Connecticut. My mother later put us in a foster home in Milford, ME. I was six years old then, and that is where I fvt& remember bevrvj det graded andmade to feellike “ doggie poo” (mild expletive) because I was an Indian. I went to live with my dad on Indian Island when 1 w as 11 years old, and went to Old Town schools. In gang units Old Town youths were famous for calling me and others “squaw”, dirty Indians, and making sexually unacceptable remarks. During the 1940’s and 1950’s what did anyone know of unaccept­ able behavior -next to nothing! I had to grin and bear whatever came my way. It was at this time, junior high I believe, that I began to develop a defensive attitude. Playing basketball or engaging in other athletic activi­ ties, if I was better at the game, the only way the non-Indian girls could put me down was to make remarks about my being an Indian, not just one - on - one, but always as a group/ gang. The chip on my shoulder grew during my teenage years, and at one time I carried a knife on me at all times and used it a couple of times when physically accosted by non-In­ dian boys. I went to live in M assa­ chusetts during high school with an older brother and had hoped that be­ ing Indian wouldn’t follow me there, but it did. My sister and I were the please turn to page 6 OFFENSIVE NAME TO BE REMOVED FROM PUBLIC PLACES �1999 WABANAKI DAY ATTHE MAINE STATE HOUSE �1999 WABANAKI DAY ATTHE MAINE STATE HOUSE �OFFENSIVE NAME TO BE REMOVED FROM PUBLIC PLACES Testimonials for and against LD 2418 - An Act Concerning Offensive Names fro p g 3 mae only two Indians in the school sys­ tem and we were never allowed to forget it. I have never been endeared by non - Indians for my ethnic back­ ground, but always the edge of dirt, filth, and second-rate citizen was present in their remarks. Needless to say I became an adult with no self­ esteem. However, I had one charac­ teristic which saved me - persever­ ance. I was going to survive in spite of all the name calling and hurt and I did. Today, I know all about bigotry, slander, prejudice, and how to pro­ tect myself from the hurt and pain. I ’ve watched the Native population of this country struggle, just as the Negro population has, to gain respect and dignity. You cannot get away with calling me “squaw” today be­ cause I know the laws and will use them against you. You cannot call my daughter names, or my son, and get away with it because I will come to their rescue if they can’t handle it themselves. I have held the current school system s acco u n tab le fo r p reju d ices d isp lay ed du rin g my children’s education. Squaw Valley, California, and Squaw M ountain, M aine, are two very beautiful places. I consider my­ self a beautiful person today, and will not tolerate being called “squaw” . Change these names in this new mil­ lennium, and transform these sites back to their natural beauty. If you must continue to use Native ethnicity as a basis for naming these sites, there are some beautiful names in the Native languages, which would be more appropriate. I have argued at another committee meeting about the use of the word “sovereignty”, as I argue today about the use of the word “squaw.” We as Native peoples never needed these words, we have always known who we are and have a lan­ guage to describe ourselves. These are your words, and “squaw” is a misnomer. I ’m sure we’re all famil­ iar with the description of this word in W ebster’s Collegiate Dictionary. But have you ever taken the time to find out what an Indian woman was called in her own language. Each tribal language is different but each tribe has a w ord, or d eriv ativ es thereof, for designating a N ative w om an or d e sc rib in g a N ativ e woman. Do these place names that contain “squaw” today have to have an ethnic tone? How far would you get today if you called these places “Frog M ountain” , “Nigger M oun­ tain”, or some such ethnic slur? We are adults today, and possess the power to make changes, and I pray to the power to my understanding that you will change all place names with the word “squaw” in it in the State of Maine. —Richard M. Doyle, Office of the Governor G ood M orning to the d istin ­ guished Chairs and Members of the Judiciary Committee. I am honored to be here this morning to testify in favor of L.D. 2418, an Act Concerning Offensive Names. This act would correct a defamation that has been perpetuated against Indian Women specifically, and Indian People in general. I will not condone this word by speaking it here today, but the bill specifies the word in question. This word has been used to defile Indian women ever since the European invasion of this land. You have been provided with the origins of this word by Represen­ tative Soctomah, MITSC, and oth­ ers, I will not go there. What I do want to talk about is how it feels to an Indian Person, obviously a male perspective, to hear someone use such a word. I have heard the “s” word many times in my life. Each time it has been used to inflict pain and stereotype Indian women. The word as I hear and perceive it denotes an Indian woman who is easy, an In­ dian woman who is promiscuous, a slut, a whore. When the term is used generally the meaning is intensified. Each time I hear this word I am of­ fended to the point of madness and disgusted that the dominant society allows and tolerates such racist lan­ guage. I have heard our women tell me about ex-boyfriends chasing them around in public calling them the “s” word loudly, having this term painted on a door or wall to brand them, and other arduous stories. I have heard for m yself white men saying things like “it’s Saturday night, guess I’ll take a trip to the res­ ervation and snag me one of those “s” words” (this from UMM staff), “better get home before my s” word goes on the warpath”, “the girl was so drunk out of her mind, if I didn’t know better I would swear she was a “s” word, as well as many other ex­ amples of racially loaded idiocy. This same type of racism is cur­ rently allowed by the State in the naming of businesses, geographic features, natural resources, sport teams, and all types of groups. The non - Native will try to tell Thompson, and members of the com­ you that these words are not offen­ mittee, I am Sharon Libby Jones, a sive or were not meant to be offen­ selectmen for the town Greenville, speaking against L.D. 2418. sive. I am a small business owner, a I hope that this committee under­ stands that the “s” word in today’s S ele ctm e n fo r the Town o f society is offensive to Native people. Greenville and a former State Rep­ There is no justification or explana­ resentative that represented District tion that can change the fact that this 111, which is located in Piscataquis term is racist. Others may try to tell County and includes 11 towns, two this com m ittee that banning this plantations and several organized ter­ word will infringe upon or even de­ ritories in Northern Maine. Several stroy part of another Indian language. of these unorganized territories are I do not accept this premise either, L ittle Squaw Tow nship and Big since this “s” word may be a bastard­ Squaw Township. L.D. 2418, An Act Concerning ization of an Indian word, changed in ignorance to classify and demean. Offensive Names, is a step in the I do not know of any Indian culture wrong direction for Maine. I think that would allow others to use their all of us here recognize the impor­ words to shame and attack their Na­ tance of the State’s history. We need to understand the state’s tribal cul­ tive sisters and brothers. L.D. 2418 goes further than just ture and history. Piscataquis County, banning a word, it seeks to officially for over 100 years, has recognized celebrate our Native Women for all and realized the importance of the they have contributed to the Indian Native American culture and history. family, the Indian culture, and to the Currently, the Piscataquis County State of Maine. It is a positive ap­ Economic Council has begun survey proach. Proclaiming this millennial research on the cultural heritage of year The Year of the Native Ameri­ the region. This research project will can Woman would honor all native be gathering information from his­ people while providing hope for the torians, storytellers, and traditional future that all people will be in har­ businesses. The information will be m ony, and m u tu al respect w ill catalogued and used to develop a a bound for one another. cultural heritage m ap, which w ill b e If it were up to my Tribe, this used to inform tbe citizens of tbe term, along with other racially offen­ State and our travelers to the region sive words, (excuse my language) of the richness of our history. such as “redskin” would be prohib­ We are m oving fo rw ard in ited and if anyone dare utter the Greenville with a Natural Resource word, then strict penalties would ap­ Education Center. The concept of this ply. But it is not up to us, it is up to facility is to house orientation and in­ the Maine Legislature to pass a bill terpretation services, educational that would make it known to all, that exhibits, on- and off-site programs, the State of Maine does not tolerate interpretive trails, and events that ex­ racism. That the State of Maine will plain and celebrate the unique natu­ not allow Indian women or any other ral and cultural heritage of the region. group to be publicly ridiculed, that Piscataquis County is the poor­ the State of Maine recognizes and ap­ est County in the State with the least preciates diversity, that the State of population of any other county. We Maine pays honor to Native Women are rich with natural resources, his­ for their strength, their accomplish­ tory, culture and pride. The Native ments, their vision, their compassion, Americans are very much a part of our history. their beauty, and their tolerance. Less than one week ago, I re­ Thank you for allowing me to speak my words and hope each of the ceived a Public Hearing Notice about members consider them in deliber­ this important Public Hearing. Since ating this matter. Please support L. then there have been several articles and notifications that were sent to the D .2418. Woliwon (thank you) naka Tahu citizens of the area. Tremendous feel­ ings, reflections on history, as well (and stop) as strong emotions, have been pour­ ing in from the Native Americans and citizens of the Moosehead Lake Re­ —Sharon Libby Jones gion. In less than 24 hours nearly 300 Greenville Selectmen people signed petitions that were lo­ and Former State Representative, cated in just a few of our businesses District 111 please turn to page 7 Senator Longley, Representative OFFENSIVE NAME TO BE REMOVED FROM PUBLIC PLACES �Speech to the 63rd Maine Legislature, in 1887 by Lewis Mitchell Representative of the Passamaquoddy Tribe of Indians I was authorized by the Passamaquoddy Tribe of Indians to come here before you for the purpose of making known to you what the Passamaquoddy Indians have done for the American people, and how we have been used by the American people and how we used them. In 1775 or 1776, in the struggle between Great Britain and America, your people came to us for assistance. You authorized Col. John Allan to speak to us and you said, “He is our mouth, believe what he says to you.” After many kind words and promises, Francis Joseph, who was the chief of the tribe at that time, accepted his offer. He promised to go and help his people gain their indepen­ dence. Immediately he sent his captains to different parts of his coun­ try to notify his people to prepare for immediate war. In a few days Francis Joseph gathered an army of six hundred men. At that time, and many years before that, the Passamaquoddy Tribe was the head­ quarters of the Abnaki Nation. Passamaquoddy Tribe can show you by a letter from Col. John Allan when he authorized the Passamaquoddy Indians to guard the coast form Machias to Passamaquoddy, and authorized them to seize the enemy’s vessels. And according to his orders we can show you by the affidavit, Capt. Sopiel Socktoma, with fifty others of his tribe, captured an armed schooner in Passamaquoddy Bay, and they ran her to Machias and gave her up to Col. John Allan. We know the Indians who served in that war are passed out of existence, but the Passamaquoddy Tribe helped the Americans in that war, and the tribe is still in existence, Now we bountily ask your attention to help us by letting the Legislature examine the pa­ pers and refer them to Congress, if they see fit. In the treaties of 1725, 1794, and Governor Dummer’s treaty of 1727, and in the laws of Massachusetts and Maine at their separa­ tion, we were guaranteed the right to hunt and fish forever. In the year 1854 or 1857 some dishonest person or persons pre­ sented a petition to the Maine Legislature, asking the State to sell the Indians’ land - Indians did not need it - so the Legislature passed a resolve, that a certain piece of land, situated in the Town of Perry, owned by the Indians, would be sold by public auction, on such day, at Perry (they must have arranged everything so they wouldn’t bid against each other) and that land was sold for the small sum of $500.00. The Indians opposed the sale of it. Now their firewood costs the Indians of Pleasant Point $ 1,500.00 a year. If that land had not been sold, the Indians would not suffer for want of firewood. Thousands of cords of cordwood have been cut, and wood is on it yet. The land cleared by the Indians was also sold. Now we claim again that this is not right. An Indian agent himself bought this land afterward and again when we lost the claim on the Islands the case Granger vs. Indians, we not only lost the claim, but $2,500.00 out of the Indians in favor of Mr. Granger. Just consider, today, how many rich men there are in Calais, in St. Stephen, M illtown, M achias, East M achias, Colum bia, Cherryfield, and other lumbering towns. We see a good many of them worth thousands and even millions of dollars. We ask our­ selves, how they make most of their money? Answer is, they make it on lumber or timber once owned by the Passamaquoddy Indians. How many of their privileges have been broken? How many of their lands have been taken from them by authority of the State? Now, we say to ourselves, these Indians ought to have everything they ask for. They deserve assistance. We are sent here to help the poor and defend their rights. Now, this plainly shows us how much worse a people of five hundred and thirty souls are, stripped of their whole country, their privileges on which they depend for their living; all the land they claim to own now being only ten acres. If one or two men in this body were Indians they would fight like braves for their rights. Now look at yourselves and see whether I am right or wrong. If you find any insulting language in my speech, I ask your pardon. I don’t mean to insult anybody, but simply tell you of our wrong. Testimonials from page 6 in the area. Yes Native Americans ganization, for years have promoted sign them as well. That is how strong the word “Squaw ” w hether it be our feelings are for the history of the Squaw Brook, Little Squaw Brook word “Squaw.” Campground, hiking and biking trails The im p o rtan ce of the w ord throughout the Townships, on menus, “Squaw” is not only important to the signs, Squaw Mountain Resort and h e rita g e o f the area b u t to our G olf Course and our magnificent economy locally and Statewide. Big Mountain called “Big Squaw Moun­ Squaw Mountain, an internationally tain”. known ski area in Big Squaw Town­ Think for a moment the impact, ship, is very important to our area. economically and historically, on this T his M ou n tain at one tim e was unique area of the State. The follow­ owned by the State. Located on ma­ ing D epartm ents w ould have to jestic M oosehead Lake are wonder­ change many statues and regulations ful areas such as Squaw Bay, Squaw and maps of the area. All Business Point and Squaw Point Subdivision. Brochures, The Town of Greenville, The State owns a cam pground on Emergency Management Agencies, Squaw Brook. The water supply for The Department of Transportation, the Town of Greenville comes from The Departm ent of Conservation, a well located in Little Squaw Town­ The Department of Inland Fisheries ship. The Town has a sanitary land­ and Wildlife, The Health and Infor­ fill in Little Squaw Township. There m atio n C en ter (EM S law ), is a growing industrial park located Piscataquis County Law Enforce­ in this Township. We have a boom­ ment Agencies. ing snow m obile industry located We have recently had completed throughout Little and Big Squaw areas for the E-911 system that con­ Townships, and Big Squaw Moun­ tain the word “Squaw” . The evacua­ tain. The trails systems (ITS 86 plus tion designation for our immediate local trails) in these areas are some area is Big Squaw Mountain. the best in the State. Think what this change would do (Expenditures per Snowmobile for the State Forestry Division in our for a resident are near $600.00 and a area. They maintain an immense and nonresident $1,100.00). Businesses, complex system for Forest Fires Pro­ the S tate o f M ain e and the tection. Moosehead Lake Region Chamber Please do not remove forever the of Commerce, the Moosehead His­ word “Squaw” from the Moosehead torical Society, our schools and the Regions heritage by passing this leg­ islation. Thank you. Shaw Public Library, International Seaplane Fly In Or­ Partial listing of organizations supporting the elimination of “Squaw” from name places in Maine TribesAroostook Band of Micmacs Passamaquoddy Tribe at Motahkokmikuk (Indian Township) Houlton band of Maliseets Passamaquoddy Tribe at Sipayik (Pleasant Point) Penobscot Nation United South and Eastern Tribes, Inc. (23 federally recognized tribes) Other Native OrganizationsAIM Daughters of the First Light IRATE NACHME Wabanaki Mental Health, Inc. Administration of Governor Angus S. King, Jr.Maine Indian Tribal-State Commission Religious OrganizationsCatholic Diocese of Maine Episcopal Diocese of Maine, Committee on Indian Relations Friends Committee on Maine Public Policy Maine Council of Churches Maine Holocaust Human Rights Center Other OrganizationsBlack Education and Cultural History, Inc. (Former Representative Jerry Talbot, Founder) Hall-Dale Middle School Civil Rights Team Maine AFL-CIO Maine Civil Liberties Union Maine Human Rights Commission Maine Lesbian Gay Political Alliance Maine Women’s Lobby NAACP National Coalition Building Institute____________________________ _ �Protection of Indian Archeological Sites In the spring of 1999 the 119th Legislature passed the following Resolve requiring the study of the issue of looting and vandalism of Native American archeo­ logical sites, and preparation of a report recommend­ ing solutions: Resolved: That the Maine Historic Preservation Commission and the Representatives of the Penobscot Nation and the Passamaquoddy Tribe jointly shall con­ duct a review of the threats to Native American ar­ cheological sites from looting and vandalisfn and re­ port their recommendations for implementing a moni­ toring or stewardship program for site protection and preservation. The review must also involve the fol­ lowing law enforcement agencies: the Maine Warden Service, the Maine Forest Service, the Bureau of ma­ rine Patrol, and local and state law enforcement. The review must also involve the Native American com­ munity and other interested parties. To fulfill this legislative charge, Arthur Spiess held a series of meetings with Donald Soctomah in August and September 1999. Spiess, Soctomah and Represen­ tative Donna Loring also met on September 8, 1999. Then Spiess met with the law enforcement agencies mentioned in the legislation and held discussions over the telephone during September through December 1999. Donald Soctomah presented the legislation to inter-tribal meetings for discussion. Comments were sought form the board of the Maine Archeological Society. Late Breaking News The bill is designed to provide increased protec­ tion for archeological sites. It amends the definition of an archeological site on state-controlled land to include a site judged eligible for listing on the national Regis­ ter of Historic Places by the Maine Historic Preserva­ tion Commission and approved by the appropriate land managing agency director or local governing body. Current law requires the site to be listed on the Na­ tional Register of Historic Places. It also makes the unlawful excavation of a pro­ tected archeological site a Class E crime for which a fine of not less than $250 must be adjudged. The court may order the defendant to pay an amount equal to the reasonable cost of a proper archeological excavation, had the area that was unlawfully excavated been prop­ erly excavated. A provision that an emergency archeological site designation may be made for a period not to exceed 10 years and that the Director of the Maine historic preservation Commission and the landowner shall specify in writing the area that is the subject of such a designation. It provides funding for increased monitoring of archeological sites. This funding supports a part-time monitoring coordinator using existing part-time project personnel and site monitors. It also provides funds for the development and delivery of training materials for law enforcement officers. On March 3, 2000, on the morning show at 7:30 a.m., the KISS 94.5 DJ, Stan Marckoon advocated over the public airways to call the new Sacajewea Dollar the “Squaw Buck.” Those of you who wish to express your feelings on this issue, may write to the Station Manager at the following address: Mr. Mark Osborne Co-owner/General Manager KISS 94.5 Radio Station PO Box 9494 Ellsworth, ME 04605 For further information, you may also contact: Jessica Sockbeson McGregor 1410 Essex St. Bangor, ME 04401 Tel: (207) 990-2613 Fax: (207) 947-7840 E-mail: jsockbe@aol.com Census 2000 Be s ir e to fill out your census 200 0 form . I t is imperative th at Tribal Members be counted in the New Millennium TRIBAL ISSUES BEFORE THE 119™ SECOND REGULAR SESSION LD # an d Bl T itle il LD 2178 An Act to Amend the Act to Im plem ent the Maine Indian Claims Settlem ent Concerning the Houlton Band o f Maliseet Indians Com m ent b y R ep. Loring I am in favor o f the bill as written. The Maliseets should be sovereign as are Penobscots and Passamaquoddy. Rep. Sherman o f Houlton reluctantly sponsored by request; he was 7 0 % against the bill in com mittee. Com m ent b y R ep. Soctom ah Strongly support. The Maliseet Band should have the same rights as the Passamaquoddy and Penobscot. C urrent B illS ta tu s Public Hearing held 1 /2 8 /0 0 ; was tabled for 30 days so all parties could reach agreem ent on language and c o n ten t Failed to pass in Committee. LD 2418 An Act Concerning Offensive Names I completely support this bill; should be a "No Brainer." The bill disallows the use of Squaw or squa by the State in naming public or geographic sites. I t does not elim inate usage from the English language. This word has always been offensive, in effect, used to demoralize native w om en. They are the foundation o f a healthy community. The State must stop sanctioning its use. Public Hearing held 1 /2 8 /0 0 in Judiciary com m ittee; passed in both the House and Senate; now awaiting Governor's signature. LD 2499 An act Concerning the Date by Which Land Must be Acquired by the Penobscot Nation I am the sponsor of this bill. The bill will extend the deadline by which the Nation can purchase certain trust Support for this bill will help the Penobscot Nation put the remainder of land in Trust. The never should have been a tim e limit. All of the Paper Co. land around our com m unity was recently sold. Public Hearing held 2 /9 /0 0 in Judiciary com mittee; passed in both the House and Senate; now awaiting Governor's signature. lands from 1 /3 1 /2 0 0 0 to 1 /3 1 /2 0 2 1 . LD 2549 An Act to Im plem ent Recommendations Concerning the Protection of Indian Archeological Sites I am in favor o f implementing the recommendations that will preserve these sites. A Resolve passed last session shows th e concern felt for protection o f these sites. Maine must protect the sites, as w e have in the past. Public Hearing held on 2 /2 8 /0 0 ; passed 13-0 in committee; awaiting final enactm ent. LD 3210 An Act to Change the Name in the Statutes of a Native American Organization Able to Issue Hunting and Fishing Licenses I am in favor of this bill as long as the organization works closely with Allows an off-reservation group to issue licenses from Native the tribes to eliminate any duplication. communities' governing leader. Passed Committee; is currently in Second Reading in the House of Representatives; awaiting final The bill is sponsored by Rep. Brooks a t my request. Hopefully, the com mittee will vote to recommend a stronger role in both the House and Tribal Representatives w ant and need Report Pending. to play a m ore active role in the legislative process. Every bill passed affects our communities in one way or another. Joint Study Order Establishing a Committee to Study the Recognition o f Sovereign Nations in the Legislature Senate for tribal representatives. enactment. LD 2607 An Act Concerning Previous Passamaquoddy Indian Territory Legislation I am in favor of the Legislature taking corrective action. A corrective am endm ent should be effective to change the law that was plainly intended by all parties to the process amending the Im plem enting Act. Referred to the Com m ittee on Judiciary matters on March 7, 2000. LD 2572 An Act to Fund the Cost of the W aiver of Tuition, Fees and Other I am in opposition o f passage o f this measure, as it will only serve to I am against the passage of this bill. Received Unanimous Ought Not to Pass report. Expenses for Native American Students in the Maine Technical destabilize our funding base. College System, University of Maine System and Maine Maritim e Academy 1 1 � https://www.dawnlandvoices.org/collections/files/original/b8cc7c306b7e3ab56df81a0ab8a147d1.pdf 84b3071d5744255a793941d2b2f4cca9 PDF Text Text Wabanaki Legislative Update ~ SprinQ 2000 Offensive Name law passed by Maine Legislature iA k waits Governor’s Signatured Tan Kahk, Greetings1 Dear Tribal Members, Welcome to the second edition of the “Wabanaki Legislative Update.” This newsletter is put together to inform the public on Legislative issues that affect the native communities of the Passamaquoddy, Penobscot, Micmac, and Maliseet. I have enjoyed my first session in 1999 and look forward to my service in the year 2001 next session. In the Second Regular Session we will be addressing the following issues: • LD 2418 An Act Concerning Offensive Names • LD An Act to Implement the Recommendations Concerning Indian Archeological Sites • LD 2178 An Act to Amend the Act to Implement the Maine Indian Claims Settlement Concerning the Houlton Band of Maliseet Indians • LD 2499 An Act Concerning the Date by Which Land Must be Acquired by the Penobscot Nation • LD 3210 An Act to Change the Name in the Statutes of a Native Ameri can Organization Able to Issue Hunting and Fishing Licenses The bill. An Act Concerning Offensive Names, has received much national media publicity and this shows that Maine is a leader in this area that address issues such as this. We have held interviews with 2 in-state radio stations, 5 outof-state radio stations, and 2 British radio stations; also, an interview was taped with ABC’s 20/20 show, (which was very badly reported). Your help in the passage of this bill was the deciding factor, especially the young women who stepped forward to speak from their hearts, thank you. Other measures that we followed closely, which may have an impact on the native communities, involved the Department of Human Services, especially child welfare, education, and marine fisheries bills. Be part of the process; let your voices be heard! I would like to hear from you on issues, which may help our communities. If you have any questions or concerns, please feel free to contact me at any of the following numbers: State House 287-1400 Indian Township office 796-2301 ~ Pleasant Point office 853-2600 Mobile 461-8673 ~ email: soctomah@nemaine.com Passamaquoddy website www.wabanaki.com Welcome to the Second Regular Session of the 119th Legislature. This is called the short session, and is comprised mostly of carry over bills and emer­ gency measures. Carry overs are bills that were not acted on in the First Regular Session. Emergency bills are determined by the Legislative Council to be of an emergency nature. This session is scheduled to adjourn in early April 2000. Again, in a joint effort, we bring you the second edition of the Maine Tribal Legislative News/Wabanaki Legislative Update, in one complete format. Items of interest are a history section and current issues, including an in depth look at the offensive names bill, LD 2418, sponsored by Representative Soctomah. Also, included are photos of Wabanaki Day, which was held at the Statehouse last session. We have charted our proposed bills for this short session with a brief expla­ nation of each one, as we did in the first edition. You have shown your support for these bills by attending the public hearings. Your presence spoke louder than words! If you have comments, concerns or questions, please do not hesitate to contact me either by telephone, snail mail, or e-mail, as follows: Telephone/Fax 207-737-2608 55 North Front St., Richmond, ME 04357 dmldab @wiscasset.net I wish you health and happiness for the new millennium. Yours in the Spirit of Unity, // . /vj, / * * /*<? ---- -/- Donna M. Loring Penobscot Nation, Tribal Representative Wabanaki Legislative Update Rep. Donna Loring 55 North Front S t, Richmond, ME 04357 Rep. Donald Soctomah P.O. Box 102, Princeton, ME 04668 Woliwon, Thanks, Donald Soctomah Tribal Representative, Passamaquoddy Tribe Printed at the expense of Representatives Soctomah and Loring �OFFENSIVE NAME TO BE REMOVED FROM PUBLIC PLACES Testimonials for and against LD 2418 - An Act Concerning Offensive Names —Patricia Smith Ranzoni, Bucksport Because of medical troubles I was unable to attend the hearing on the bill to remove the word “squaw” from M aine place nam es; and for same reasons do not feel up to the letter this subject deserves. Neverthe­ less, I must add my voice, and the voice of my family, to the record on behalf of this important legislation and appreciate the opportunity to in­ sert testimony, however inadequate, this way. From the time I learned we are d escended from E uropeans w ho settled on land belonging to Native Peoples, I have sought to educate m yself and our family on what is known and unknown about our part in history here as related to the tribes. This path could only lead to great sorrow, as well as humbling gratitude for an “old love, too, between us,” as I have written in my poetry in honor of generational relationships between some N ative friends and some in our line. It has long troubled me that our, M aine’s, First Peoples are routinely expected to support special efforts— days, conferences, discussions, occa­ sions, organizations, legislation and so forth— aimed at promoting “diver­ sity” and an understanding of and be­ tween other races and cultures here, while their own situation and dis­ crim in atio n s o ften rem ain o v er­ looked or discounted. The matter of the usage of squaw, a remnant of old thinking, in much the same way as “nigger” has come to be seen, is but one example. One can only guess how it must feel for tribal members to have to appear before a legislature made up of descendants of those who invaded and, by means not wholly honorable, as the record shows, took over their homelands, to ask for understanding in this matter of great meaning for their people. If M aine’s Native Peoples aren’t included in what is meant by recent efforts toward cross-cultural respect, then the easy term “diversity” rings hollow; and without the hard and painful work to hear and act upon what is needed to make things right, is nothing but a hollow, false, and cruel term with little more meaning than any other social fad. From reports in the newspapers, tribal representatives and members have articulated most clearly, pas­ sionately, and successfully the ratio­ nale for their request. They are their own indisputable source. I want to speak, also, as a woman here. Having no right to call M aine’s first and least known women “sis­ ters,” I nevertheless, stand with them in outrage against the reality of what this word has meant in their lives. That non-Natives have inexcusably endowed this word with shame, here and around the world, is irrefutable, having been docum ented through both folk and scholarly histories. It can never be righted but through changes the Natives, themselves, ask for in order to retrieve their honor. Please listen. Let it not, again, be solely about the lesser profit of business, but this time, about the greater profit of hu­ man respect. We cannot undo what has been done, but we can begin new, now that we know. We can return the mountains, rivers, islands and points to the Native women of this place in this way. First, proclaiming sorrow for what has been taken, then invit­ ing them to name these places in a new spirit of presence we can honor, protect, and celebrate with them. Please. For our family, ancestors and de­ scendants. please turn to page 3 Maine’s Native Americans Gain Passage of LD 2418 by Representative Donald Soctomah As we enter a new millen­ nium, I have hope for a better relationship between the native population and the State of M aine. In order for us to achieve this improved relationship, we must end 400 years of hurt and discrimination. We must learn to live together peacefully, by hon­ oring and respecting each other. This hope was the motivat­ ing factor behind legislation that would end the use of a demoral­ izing and dehumanizing term in the State of Maine. The passage of this bill by the Maine House or Represen­ tatives and Senate will soon be signed into law by Governor Angus S. King, Jr.. It w ill rem ove the word squaw from place names in the state. This is not an issue of politi­ cal correctness. It is about basic human decency and respect for one’s fellow citizens. The new law protects an under repre­ sented group in our state, native women. Our wom en-grandmothers, mothers, and daugh­ ters, are all entitled to protection against basic human rights vio­ lations, such as the use of demor­ alizing language. The driving force behind this bill is hundreds of native women, who are con­ tinually offended by the use of this fensive, derogatory words. Native assaulted by two men, who con­ women have the right to define tinually yelled, “you dirty slang word. The Thesaurus of Slang iden­ themselves. squaw ” as they repeatedly tifies the word “squaw” as a syn­ We need to grow and under­ kicked her. onym for prostitute,, harlot, hussy, stand that the use of the term In 1998, there was a high and floozy. The dictionary identi­ squaw shows a lack of compas­ school fight that eventually fies this word as one that is used sion to human beings, it is hard turned into a racial incident. N a­ for the general population to imag­ tive girls were called squaws, to offend native females. After generations of exposure, ine how hurtful a word can be un­ this resulted in death threats be­ the word squaw is seen as a neu­ less it is directed toward them, ing painted on the walls. This new law sends, with tral word to the general public. But their culture, or racial background. Rep. Gerald Talbot worked great effectiveness, a goodwill to native females this word con­ tinues to be a slanderous attack diligently in 1974 to remove the message of understanding to the against them and their culture. ”N” word from place names in Native people of this state: Violent incidents occur more of­ Maine. He had to convince other Maine will stop sanctioning the ten near the native communities, representatives how hurtful and use of offensive words, which where the clash between cultures hateful this word is to Maine citi­ dehumanize and exploit the na­ zens and its visitors. tive people. still exists. During that floor debate, the The native people and the When native people name a geographic feature, such as a river offensiveness of the word squaw native communities of Maine, or a mountain, the term used will was questioned. Several represen­ askd for the passage of this bill describe a specific location, for the tatives stated that to the native to end the perpetuation of dehu­ ease of the traveler, or to denote population, it was an offensive manizing language that has been its spiritual significance. The term. This is not a new issue to used to define our women. It is never an aggressive act name of the Kennebec River de­ Maine, it is a 400 year old issue for a people to exercise their scribes the contours of the river. that needs to be stopped Nationally, Maine now joins right to self determination. It is Mount Katahdin was named to three other states which have re­ an intrinsic right that is woven signify the spirits of the mountain moved the word squaw from name into the fiber of values that this and its geography. The term squaw was not origi­ places. In North Carolina, the U.S. country was founded on. The following Cheyenne nally used for place names, as the Justice Department was involved word did not exist before the in the removal of the word from a proverb summarizes the point of 1600’s. It is not a linguist’s defi­ school system in March of 1999. this bill concisely, “A nation is There is no other word used to­ never conquered until the hearts nition of the original native word day which hurts native women as of its women are on the ground.” that is of concern, it is the way the Every time this defamatory term has been used to define na­ much as the word squaw. The term tive women in its current context. has been used as a slanderous as­ term is used, the hearts of our Through communication and edu­ sault in hate crimes; last year, a women take another blow. cation we can rid the state of of- native woman was being brutally OFFENSIVE NAME TO BE REMOVED FROM PUBLIC PLACES �FFENS aga'"S’have a chance to change women. We BLIC L° 2411-* " A tlensive Names from page 2 c l O come to be felt as the word whore that sexual connotation and to give the respect to Native women that they feels... dirty, degrading, and shameful. My people have suffered great in d ig n atio n u n d er w hite rule in Houlton for many generations. We did not have a land base before 1980 but for safety and community, our families settled in the same area.... always delegated to the least desirable land, tor behind the legislation, w hich would remove the word squaw from deserve. Being a Native man, and the father of seven daughters, I do not want to see them, or anyone else’s daughter, have to carry these verbal scars for the rest of their lives. This Bill will send, with great effectiveness, a goodwill message of understanding to the Native people of this State: That Maine will stop sanctioning the use o f offensive place nam es w ithin the State o f Maine. This is not an issue about political correctness; it is about basic human decency and respect for one’s fellow citizens. It is not a linguist’s definition of the original Native word words that dehumanize and exploit the Native people. The Native comm unities o f the Passam aquoddy, Penobscot, M aliseet and M icMac, including elected governmental officials of these Tribes, representing is of concern; it is the way the term has been used to define Native " ~ H“ w om en in its c u rre n t co n te x t. 7,500 people, have signed a resolu- Donald Soctomah Judiciary Com m ittee - C hairs Senator Longley and Representative Thompson. Today is an im portant day in Maine Native history. We are step­ ping forw ard to address a term , which has been used for many years to degrade and dehumanize native women. This was the motivating fac- . • r , „ Through communication and education we can rid this State of offensive, derogatory words, so that Native women will have the right to define themselves. This Bill seeks to protect an under represented group within this State, N ative Women. T hey are e n title d to p ro te c tio n against basic hum an rights violations, such as the use o f demoralizing language. The driving force be­ hind this Bill is the hundreds of Na­ tive Women, who are continually offended by the use of this slang word. To the general public, after generations of exposure, the word squaw is seen as a neutral word, but to the Native Women this word con­ tinues to be a slanderous attack against them and their culture. In ra­ cial incidents involving hate and physical violence this word is con­ tinually used to attack Native people. These incidents occur more often near the Native communities, where unfortunately the clash of the cultures still exists. We need to grow and understand that the use of the term squaw shows a lack of compassion for human be­ ings. It is hard for the general popu­ lation to imagine how hurtful a word can be unless it is directed at them, their culture, or their racial back­ ground. In other areas where the squaw word is used to define geographic features, we can enhance the history of the area by using the correct terms. For example, Squaw Mountain can be called M aquaso M ountain in honor of C hief K ineo’s mother to whom the legend refers. A nother place, called Squaw Bosom, makes a c o n n o ta tio n to w ard s N ativ e o f the Year of the Native Woman. We ask the State of Maine and the Federal government to recognize this d e c i ­ ration by stopping the use of the term squaw. One experience that is burned into my memory was coming home one day and seeing a big road sign at the end of our road that said SQUAW KNOLL. When I entered my home I found my mother in tears... she was so humiliated Can you for a moment im a g in e imagine how a black American finding a sign »ad e - e d by ,he ,„w „ gov—— ernment at the end of their road that read Niqger Knoll would feel? We felt no less insulted. My mother made my two brothers go down and remove the sign. It was a very courageous act because she knew that they could be charged with tampering with town property. But it was Today you will hear testimony on how the S .... word is being used against Native women. You need to listen because the vast general popu- m ore im portant to not allow our lation does not get to hear this, now people to be treated with such bla­ is the time for this to be told. tant racism. The sign did not return... I ask for passage of this Bill to the road now carries the name Co&an end the perpetuation of dehumaniz­ Road. ing language that has been used to Long before the current debate define Native women. It is never an over the word began we shared the aggressive act for a people to exer­ common experience of being taunted cise their right to self-determination. by the word squaw. Women of my It is an intrinsic right that is woven tribe describe the taunting they were into the fiber of values that this coun­ subjected to in the 60’s in downtown try was founded upon. Houlton as children and teenagers, being surrounded by local w hite youth giving their imitation (as seen -Brenda Commander, TYibal on television) of an Indian war cry Chief, Houlton Band of Maliseet and calling them squaws. N ative Indians young people did not venture down­ Good M orning. I come before town alone ... but even in the com­ you this morning as a Native woman, pany of others they were not safe­ daughter, mother of a daughter, and guarded from verbal assaults... and the Chief of the Houlton Band of it certainly did not come from young Maliseet Indians, to tell you how the people only.... it was just as likely to use of the word squaw has affected come from an adult. my life, and that of my mother... my I would like to be able to say that sisters... my aunt’s... and the lives of such things would not happen today all the women of my tribe. but I cannot. As recently as two years I have not spoken to even one ago, one o f our trib al eld ers, a Maliseet woman who is not offended woman, was standing in front of the by the use of the word squaw. We do C ounty courthouse in dow ntow n not know how the word originated... H oulton, w hen a group o f youth but we are certain it did not origi­ circled her doing their imitation of a nate from our tongue. We did not use war yelp, calling her ’squaw’. It was the term to describe ourselves; it was a devastating experience for her... cast upon us by the white settlers. We bringing back all the old hurts. are unsure of its original meaning, As a people who for so long have but we do know how it came to be not had a voice that was heard in used. It has been used to taunt and Maine we did not feel empowered to degrade us as women. The word has even think about addressing this is- s u e .... we are th a n k fu l to Rep. Soctomah, for bringing this issue to the public conscience and giving us a voice. —Emma Nicolar My name is Emma Nicolar. I am a 58-year-old Penobscot woman. I want to express my gratitude to those individuals who have worked so hard and persistently to get this bill where it is today. This “Act” is a long time overdue. I am a P en o b sco t In d ian woman— I am not a “squaw” al­ though I have been called that many times in my life. I don’t have the time to detail here how detrimental this societal abuse was to the develop- n ie ^ f ZZZZ. Z I won’t go into what I’ve had to do to heal from the pain that it inflicted, but I did heal. I was born on the Penobscot Indian R eservation in Maine in 1942 but grew up in other areas other than the reservation. My parents separated when I was around 4 years old and I went to live in Connecticut. My mother later put us in a foster home in Milford, ME. I was six years old then, and that is where I fvt& remember bevrvj det graded andmade to feellike “ doggie poo” (mild expletive) because I was an Indian. I went to live with my dad on Indian Island when 1 w as 11 years old, and went to Old Town schools. In gang units Old Town youths were famous for calling me and others “squaw”, dirty Indians, and making sexually unacceptable remarks. During the 1940’s and 1950’s what did anyone know of unaccept­ able behavior -next to nothing! I had to grin and bear whatever came my way. It was at this time, junior high I believe, that I began to develop a defensive attitude. Playing basketball or engaging in other athletic activi­ ties, if I was better at the game, the only way the non-Indian girls could put me down was to make remarks about my being an Indian, not just one - on - one, but always as a group/ gang. The chip on my shoulder grew during my teenage years, and at one time I carried a knife on me at all times and used it a couple of times when physically accosted by non-In­ dian boys. I went to live in M assa­ chusetts during high school with an older brother and had hoped that be­ ing Indian wouldn’t follow me there, but it did. My sister and I were the please turn to page 6 OFFENSIVE NAME TO BE REMOVED FROM PUBLIC PLACES �1999 WABANAKI DAY ATTHE MAINE STATE HOUSE �1999 WABANAKI DAY ATTHE MAINE STATE HOUSE �OFFENSIVE NAME TO BE REMOVED FROM PUBLIC PLACES Testimonials for and against LD 2418 - An Act Concerning Offensive Names fro p g 3 mae only two Indians in the school sys­ tem and we were never allowed to forget it. I have never been endeared by non - Indians for my ethnic back­ ground, but always the edge of dirt, filth, and second-rate citizen was present in their remarks. Needless to say I became an adult with no self­ esteem. However, I had one charac­ teristic which saved me - persever­ ance. I was going to survive in spite of all the name calling and hurt and I did. Today, I know all about bigotry, slander, prejudice, and how to pro­ tect myself from the hurt and pain. I ’ve watched the Native population of this country struggle, just as the Negro population has, to gain respect and dignity. You cannot get away with calling me “squaw” today be­ cause I know the laws and will use them against you. You cannot call my daughter names, or my son, and get away with it because I will come to their rescue if they can’t handle it themselves. I have held the current school system s acco u n tab le fo r p reju d ices d isp lay ed du rin g my children’s education. Squaw Valley, California, and Squaw M ountain, M aine, are two very beautiful places. I consider my­ self a beautiful person today, and will not tolerate being called “squaw” . Change these names in this new mil­ lennium, and transform these sites back to their natural beauty. If you must continue to use Native ethnicity as a basis for naming these sites, there are some beautiful names in the Native languages, which would be more appropriate. I have argued at another committee meeting about the use of the word “sovereignty”, as I argue today about the use of the word “squaw.” We as Native peoples never needed these words, we have always known who we are and have a lan­ guage to describe ourselves. These are your words, and “squaw” is a misnomer. I ’m sure we’re all famil­ iar with the description of this word in W ebster’s Collegiate Dictionary. But have you ever taken the time to find out what an Indian woman was called in her own language. Each tribal language is different but each tribe has a w ord, or d eriv ativ es thereof, for designating a N ative w om an or d e sc rib in g a N ativ e woman. Do these place names that contain “squaw” today have to have an ethnic tone? How far would you get today if you called these places “Frog M ountain” , “Nigger M oun­ tain”, or some such ethnic slur? We are adults today, and possess the power to make changes, and I pray to the power to my understanding that you will change all place names with the word “squaw” in it in the State of Maine. —Richard M. Doyle, Office of the Governor G ood M orning to the d istin ­ guished Chairs and Members of the Judiciary Committee. I am honored to be here this morning to testify in favor of L.D. 2418, an Act Concerning Offensive Names. This act would correct a defamation that has been perpetuated against Indian Women specifically, and Indian People in general. I will not condone this word by speaking it here today, but the bill specifies the word in question. This word has been used to defile Indian women ever since the European invasion of this land. You have been provided with the origins of this word by Represen­ tative Soctomah, MITSC, and oth­ ers, I will not go there. What I do want to talk about is how it feels to an Indian Person, obviously a male perspective, to hear someone use such a word. I have heard the “s” word many times in my life. Each time it has been used to inflict pain and stereotype Indian women. The word as I hear and perceive it denotes an Indian woman who is easy, an In­ dian woman who is promiscuous, a slut, a whore. When the term is used generally the meaning is intensified. Each time I hear this word I am of­ fended to the point of madness and disgusted that the dominant society allows and tolerates such racist lan­ guage. I have heard our women tell me about ex-boyfriends chasing them around in public calling them the “s” word loudly, having this term painted on a door or wall to brand them, and other arduous stories. I have heard for m yself white men saying things like “it’s Saturday night, guess I’ll take a trip to the res­ ervation and snag me one of those “s” words” (this from UMM staff), “better get home before my s” word goes on the warpath”, “the girl was so drunk out of her mind, if I didn’t know better I would swear she was a “s” word, as well as many other ex­ amples of racially loaded idiocy. This same type of racism is cur­ rently allowed by the State in the naming of businesses, geographic features, natural resources, sport teams, and all types of groups. The non - Native will try to tell Thompson, and members of the com­ you that these words are not offen­ mittee, I am Sharon Libby Jones, a sive or were not meant to be offen­ selectmen for the town Greenville, speaking against L.D. 2418. sive. I am a small business owner, a I hope that this committee under­ stands that the “s” word in today’s S ele ctm e n fo r the Town o f society is offensive to Native people. Greenville and a former State Rep­ There is no justification or explana­ resentative that represented District tion that can change the fact that this 111, which is located in Piscataquis term is racist. Others may try to tell County and includes 11 towns, two this com m ittee that banning this plantations and several organized ter­ word will infringe upon or even de­ ritories in Northern Maine. Several stroy part of another Indian language. of these unorganized territories are I do not accept this premise either, L ittle Squaw Tow nship and Big since this “s” word may be a bastard­ Squaw Township. L.D. 2418, An Act Concerning ization of an Indian word, changed in ignorance to classify and demean. Offensive Names, is a step in the I do not know of any Indian culture wrong direction for Maine. I think that would allow others to use their all of us here recognize the impor­ words to shame and attack their Na­ tance of the State’s history. We need to understand the state’s tribal cul­ tive sisters and brothers. L.D. 2418 goes further than just ture and history. Piscataquis County, banning a word, it seeks to officially for over 100 years, has recognized celebrate our Native Women for all and realized the importance of the they have contributed to the Indian Native American culture and history. family, the Indian culture, and to the Currently, the Piscataquis County State of Maine. It is a positive ap­ Economic Council has begun survey proach. Proclaiming this millennial research on the cultural heritage of year The Year of the Native Ameri­ the region. This research project will can Woman would honor all native be gathering information from his­ people while providing hope for the torians, storytellers, and traditional future that all people will be in har­ businesses. The information will be m ony, and m u tu al respect w ill catalogued and used to develop a a bound for one another. cultural heritage m ap, which w ill b e If it were up to my Tribe, this used to inform tbe citizens of tbe term, along with other racially offen­ State and our travelers to the region sive words, (excuse my language) of the richness of our history. such as “redskin” would be prohib­ We are m oving fo rw ard in ited and if anyone dare utter the Greenville with a Natural Resource word, then strict penalties would ap­ Education Center. The concept of this ply. But it is not up to us, it is up to facility is to house orientation and in­ the Maine Legislature to pass a bill terpretation services, educational that would make it known to all, that exhibits, on- and off-site programs, the State of Maine does not tolerate interpretive trails, and events that ex­ racism. That the State of Maine will plain and celebrate the unique natu­ not allow Indian women or any other ral and cultural heritage of the region. group to be publicly ridiculed, that Piscataquis County is the poor­ the State of Maine recognizes and ap­ est County in the State with the least preciates diversity, that the State of population of any other county. We Maine pays honor to Native Women are rich with natural resources, his­ for their strength, their accomplish­ tory, culture and pride. The Native ments, their vision, their compassion, Americans are very much a part of our history. their beauty, and their tolerance. Less than one week ago, I re­ Thank you for allowing me to speak my words and hope each of the ceived a Public Hearing Notice about members consider them in deliber­ this important Public Hearing. Since ating this matter. Please support L. then there have been several articles and notifications that were sent to the D .2418. Woliwon (thank you) naka Tahu citizens of the area. Tremendous feel­ ings, reflections on history, as well (and stop) as strong emotions, have been pour­ ing in from the Native Americans and citizens of the Moosehead Lake Re­ —Sharon Libby Jones gion. In less than 24 hours nearly 300 Greenville Selectmen people signed petitions that were lo­ and Former State Representative, cated in just a few of our businesses District 111 please turn to page 7 Senator Longley, Representative OFFENSIVE NAME TO BE REMOVED FROM PUBLIC PLACES �Speech to the 63rd Maine Legislature, in 1887 by Lewis Mitchell Representative of the Passamaquoddy Tribe of Indians I was authorized by the Passamaquoddy Tribe of Indians to come here before you for the purpose of making known to you what the Passamaquoddy Indians have done for the American people, and how we have been used by the American people and how we used them. In 1775 or 1776, in the struggle between Great Britain and America, your people came to us for assistance. You authorized Col. John Allan to speak to us and you said, “He is our mouth, believe what he says to you.” After many kind words and promises, Francis Joseph, who was the chief of the tribe at that time, accepted his offer. He promised to go and help his people gain their indepen­ dence. Immediately he sent his captains to different parts of his coun­ try to notify his people to prepare for immediate war. In a few days Francis Joseph gathered an army of six hundred men. At that time, and many years before that, the Passamaquoddy Tribe was the head­ quarters of the Abnaki Nation. Passamaquoddy Tribe can show you by a letter from Col. John Allan when he authorized the Passamaquoddy Indians to guard the coast form Machias to Passamaquoddy, and authorized them to seize the enemy’s vessels. And according to his orders we can show you by the affidavit, Capt. Sopiel Socktoma, with fifty others of his tribe, captured an armed schooner in Passamaquoddy Bay, and they ran her to Machias and gave her up to Col. John Allan. We know the Indians who served in that war are passed out of existence, but the Passamaquoddy Tribe helped the Americans in that war, and the tribe is still in existence, Now we bountily ask your attention to help us by letting the Legislature examine the pa­ pers and refer them to Congress, if they see fit. In the treaties of 1725, 1794, and Governor Dummer’s treaty of 1727, and in the laws of Massachusetts and Maine at their separa­ tion, we were guaranteed the right to hunt and fish forever. In the year 1854 or 1857 some dishonest person or persons pre­ sented a petition to the Maine Legislature, asking the State to sell the Indians’ land - Indians did not need it - so the Legislature passed a resolve, that a certain piece of land, situated in the Town of Perry, owned by the Indians, would be sold by public auction, on such day, at Perry (they must have arranged everything so they wouldn’t bid against each other) and that land was sold for the small sum of $500.00. The Indians opposed the sale of it. Now their firewood costs the Indians of Pleasant Point $ 1,500.00 a year. If that land had not been sold, the Indians would not suffer for want of firewood. Thousands of cords of cordwood have been cut, and wood is on it yet. The land cleared by the Indians was also sold. Now we claim again that this is not right. An Indian agent himself bought this land afterward and again when we lost the claim on the Islands the case Granger vs. Indians, we not only lost the claim, but $2,500.00 out of the Indians in favor of Mr. Granger. Just consider, today, how many rich men there are in Calais, in St. Stephen, M illtown, M achias, East M achias, Colum bia, Cherryfield, and other lumbering towns. We see a good many of them worth thousands and even millions of dollars. We ask our­ selves, how they make most of their money? Answer is, they make it on lumber or timber once owned by the Passamaquoddy Indians. How many of their privileges have been broken? How many of their lands have been taken from them by authority of the State? Now, we say to ourselves, these Indians ought to have everything they ask for. They deserve assistance. We are sent here to help the poor and defend their rights. Now, this plainly shows us how much worse a people of five hundred and thirty souls are, stripped of their whole country, their privileges on which they depend for their living; all the land they claim to own now being only ten acres. If one or two men in this body were Indians they would fight like braves for their rights. Now look at yourselves and see whether I am right or wrong. If you find any insulting language in my speech, I ask your pardon. I don’t mean to insult anybody, but simply tell you of our wrong. Testimonials from page 6 in the area. Yes Native Americans ganization, for years have promoted sign them as well. That is how strong the word “Squaw ” w hether it be our feelings are for the history of the Squaw Brook, Little Squaw Brook word “Squaw.” Campground, hiking and biking trails The im p o rtan ce of the w ord throughout the Townships, on menus, “Squaw” is not only important to the signs, Squaw Mountain Resort and h e rita g e o f the area b u t to our G olf Course and our magnificent economy locally and Statewide. Big Mountain called “Big Squaw Moun­ Squaw Mountain, an internationally tain”. known ski area in Big Squaw Town­ Think for a moment the impact, ship, is very important to our area. economically and historically, on this T his M ou n tain at one tim e was unique area of the State. The follow­ owned by the State. Located on ma­ ing D epartm ents w ould have to jestic M oosehead Lake are wonder­ change many statues and regulations ful areas such as Squaw Bay, Squaw and maps of the area. All Business Point and Squaw Point Subdivision. Brochures, The Town of Greenville, The State owns a cam pground on Emergency Management Agencies, Squaw Brook. The water supply for The Department of Transportation, the Town of Greenville comes from The Departm ent of Conservation, a well located in Little Squaw Town­ The Department of Inland Fisheries ship. The Town has a sanitary land­ and Wildlife, The Health and Infor­ fill in Little Squaw Township. There m atio n C en ter (EM S law ), is a growing industrial park located Piscataquis County Law Enforce­ in this Township. We have a boom­ ment Agencies. ing snow m obile industry located We have recently had completed throughout Little and Big Squaw areas for the E-911 system that con­ Townships, and Big Squaw Moun­ tain the word “Squaw” . The evacua­ tain. The trails systems (ITS 86 plus tion designation for our immediate local trails) in these areas are some area is Big Squaw Mountain. the best in the State. Think what this change would do (Expenditures per Snowmobile for the State Forestry Division in our for a resident are near $600.00 and a area. They maintain an immense and nonresident $1,100.00). Businesses, complex system for Forest Fires Pro­ the S tate o f M ain e and the tection. Moosehead Lake Region Chamber Please do not remove forever the of Commerce, the Moosehead His­ word “Squaw” from the Moosehead torical Society, our schools and the Regions heritage by passing this leg­ islation. Thank you. Shaw Public Library, International Seaplane Fly In Or­ Partial listing of organizations supporting the elimination of “Squaw” from name places in Maine TribesAroostook Band of Micmacs Passamaquoddy Tribe at Motahkokmikuk (Indian Township) Houlton band of Maliseets Passamaquoddy Tribe at Sipayik (Pleasant Point) Penobscot Nation United South and Eastern Tribes, Inc. (23 federally recognized tribes) Other Native OrganizationsAIM Daughters of the First Light IRATE NACHME Wabanaki Mental Health, Inc. Administration of Governor Angus S. King, Jr.Maine Indian Tribal-State Commission Religious OrganizationsCatholic Diocese of Maine Episcopal Diocese of Maine, Committee on Indian Relations Friends Committee on Maine Public Policy Maine Council of Churches Maine Holocaust Human Rights Center Other OrganizationsBlack Education and Cultural History, Inc. (Former Representative Jerry Talbot, Founder) Hall-Dale Middle School Civil Rights Team Maine AFL-CIO Maine Civil Liberties Union Maine Human Rights Commission Maine Lesbian Gay Political Alliance Maine Women’s Lobby NAACP National Coalition Building Institute____________________________ _ �Protection of Indian Archeological Sites In the spring of 1999 the 119th Legislature passed the following Resolve requiring the study of the issue of looting and vandalism of Native American archeo­ logical sites, and preparation of a report recommend­ ing solutions: Resolved: That the Maine Historic Preservation Commission and the Representatives of the Penobscot Nation and the Passamaquoddy Tribe jointly shall con­ duct a review of the threats to Native American ar­ cheological sites from looting and vandalisfn and re­ port their recommendations for implementing a moni­ toring or stewardship program for site protection and preservation. The review must also involve the fol­ lowing law enforcement agencies: the Maine Warden Service, the Maine Forest Service, the Bureau of ma­ rine Patrol, and local and state law enforcement. The review must also involve the Native American com­ munity and other interested parties. To fulfill this legislative charge, Arthur Spiess held a series of meetings with Donald Soctomah in August and September 1999. Spiess, Soctomah and Represen­ tative Donna Loring also met on September 8, 1999. Then Spiess met with the law enforcement agencies mentioned in the legislation and held discussions over the telephone during September through December 1999. Donald Soctomah presented the legislation to inter-tribal meetings for discussion. Comments were sought form the board of the Maine Archeological Society. Late Breaking News The bill is designed to provide increased protec­ tion for archeological sites. It amends the definition of an archeological site on state-controlled land to include a site judged eligible for listing on the national Regis­ ter of Historic Places by the Maine Historic Preserva­ tion Commission and approved by the appropriate land managing agency director or local governing body. Current law requires the site to be listed on the Na­ tional Register of Historic Places. It also makes the unlawful excavation of a pro­ tected archeological site a Class E crime for which a fine of not less than $250 must be adjudged. The court may order the defendant to pay an amount equal to the reasonable cost of a proper archeological excavation, had the area that was unlawfully excavated been prop­ erly excavated. A provision that an emergency archeological site designation may be made for a period not to exceed 10 years and that the Director of the Maine historic preservation Commission and the landowner shall specify in writing the area that is the subject of such a designation. It provides funding for increased monitoring of archeological sites. This funding supports a part-time monitoring coordinator using existing part-time project personnel and site monitors. It also provides funds for the development and delivery of training materials for law enforcement officers. On March 3, 2000, on the morning show at 7:30 a.m., the KISS 94.5 DJ, Stan Marckoon advocated over the public airways to call the new Sacajewea Dollar the “Squaw Buck.” Those of you who wish to express your feelings on this issue, may write to the Station Manager at the following address: Mr. Mark Osborne Co-owner/General Manager KISS 94.5 Radio Station PO Box 9494 Ellsworth, ME 04605 For further information, you may also contact: Jessica Sockbeson McGregor 1410 Essex St. Bangor, ME 04401 Tel: (207) 990-2613 Fax: (207) 947-7840 E-mail: jsockbe@aol.com Census 2000 Be s ir e to fill out your census 200 0 form . I t is imperative th at Tribal Members be counted in the New Millennium TRIBAL ISSUES BEFORE THE 119™ SECOND REGULAR SESSION LD # an d Bl T itle il LD 2178 An Act to Amend the Act to Im plem ent the Maine Indian Claims Settlem ent Concerning the Houlton Band o f Maliseet Indians Com m ent b y R ep. Loring I am in favor o f the bill as written. The Maliseets should be sovereign as are Penobscots and Passamaquoddy. Rep. Sherman o f Houlton reluctantly sponsored by request; he was 7 0 % against the bill in com mittee. Com m ent b y R ep. Soctom ah Strongly support. The Maliseet Band should have the same rights as the Passamaquoddy and Penobscot. C urrent B illS ta tu s Public Hearing held 1 /2 8 /0 0 ; was tabled for 30 days so all parties could reach agreem ent on language and c o n ten t Failed to pass in Committee. LD 2418 An Act Concerning Offensive Names I completely support this bill; should be a "No Brainer." The bill disallows the use of Squaw or squa by the State in naming public or geographic sites. I t does not elim inate usage from the English language. This word has always been offensive, in effect, used to demoralize native w om en. They are the foundation o f a healthy community. The State must stop sanctioning its use. Public Hearing held 1 /2 8 /0 0 in Judiciary com m ittee; passed in both the House and Senate; now awaiting Governor's signature. LD 2499 An act Concerning the Date by Which Land Must be Acquired by the Penobscot Nation I am the sponsor of this bill. The bill will extend the deadline by which the Nation can purchase certain trust Support for this bill will help the Penobscot Nation put the remainder of land in Trust. The never should have been a tim e limit. All of the Paper Co. land around our com m unity was recently sold. Public Hearing held 2 /9 /0 0 in Judiciary com mittee; passed in both the House and Senate; now awaiting Governor's signature. lands from 1 /3 1 /2 0 0 0 to 1 /3 1 /2 0 2 1 . LD 2549 An Act to Im plem ent Recommendations Concerning the Protection of Indian Archeological Sites I am in favor o f implementing the recommendations that will preserve these sites. A Resolve passed last session shows th e concern felt for protection o f these sites. Maine must protect the sites, as w e have in the past. Public Hearing held on 2 /2 8 /0 0 ; passed 13-0 in committee; awaiting final enactm ent. LD 3210 An Act to Change the Name in the Statutes of a Native American Organization Able to Issue Hunting and Fishing Licenses I am in favor of this bill as long as the organization works closely with Allows an off-reservation group to issue licenses from Native the tribes to eliminate any duplication. communities' governing leader. Passed Committee; is currently in Second Reading in the House of Representatives; awaiting final The bill is sponsored by Rep. Brooks a t my request. Hopefully, the com mittee will vote to recommend a stronger role in both the House and Tribal Representatives w ant and need Report Pending. to play a m ore active role in the legislative process. Every bill passed affects our communities in one way or another. Joint Study Order Establishing a Committee to Study the Recognition o f Sovereign Nations in the Legislature Senate for tribal representatives. enactment. LD 2607 An Act Concerning Previous Passamaquoddy Indian Territory Legislation I am in favor of the Legislature taking corrective action. A corrective am endm ent should be effective to change the law that was plainly intended by all parties to the process amending the Im plem enting Act. Referred to the Com m ittee on Judiciary matters on March 7, 2000. LD 2572 An Act to Fund the Cost of the W aiver of Tuition, Fees and Other I am in opposition o f passage o f this measure, as it will only serve to I am against the passage of this bill. Received Unanimous Ought Not to Pass report. Expenses for Native American Students in the Maine Technical destabilize our funding base. College System, University of Maine System and Maine Maritim e Academy 1 1 � https://www.dawnlandvoices.org/collections/files/original/0ea14c66cd20e82b7d1c31a5e020fac8.pdf 84b3071d5744255a793941d2b2f4cca9 PDF Text Text Wabanaki Legislative Update ~ SprinQ 2000 Offensive Name law passed by Maine Legislature iA k waits Governor’s Signatured Tan Kahk, Greetings1 Dear Tribal Members, Welcome to the second edition of the “Wabanaki Legislative Update.” This newsletter is put together to inform the public on Legislative issues that affect the native communities of the Passamaquoddy, Penobscot, Micmac, and Maliseet. I have enjoyed my first session in 1999 and look forward to my service in the year 2001 next session. In the Second Regular Session we will be addressing the following issues: • LD 2418 An Act Concerning Offensive Names • LD An Act to Implement the Recommendations Concerning Indian Archeological Sites • LD 2178 An Act to Amend the Act to Implement the Maine Indian Claims Settlement Concerning the Houlton Band of Maliseet Indians • LD 2499 An Act Concerning the Date by Which Land Must be Acquired by the Penobscot Nation • LD 3210 An Act to Change the Name in the Statutes of a Native Ameri can Organization Able to Issue Hunting and Fishing Licenses The bill. An Act Concerning Offensive Names, has received much national media publicity and this shows that Maine is a leader in this area that address issues such as this. We have held interviews with 2 in-state radio stations, 5 outof-state radio stations, and 2 British radio stations; also, an interview was taped with ABC’s 20/20 show, (which was very badly reported). Your help in the passage of this bill was the deciding factor, especially the young women who stepped forward to speak from their hearts, thank you. Other measures that we followed closely, which may have an impact on the native communities, involved the Department of Human Services, especially child welfare, education, and marine fisheries bills. Be part of the process; let your voices be heard! I would like to hear from you on issues, which may help our communities. If you have any questions or concerns, please feel free to contact me at any of the following numbers: State House 287-1400 Indian Township office 796-2301 ~ Pleasant Point office 853-2600 Mobile 461-8673 ~ email: soctomah@nemaine.com Passamaquoddy website www.wabanaki.com Welcome to the Second Regular Session of the 119th Legislature. This is called the short session, and is comprised mostly of carry over bills and emer­ gency measures. Carry overs are bills that were not acted on in the First Regular Session. Emergency bills are determined by the Legislative Council to be of an emergency nature. This session is scheduled to adjourn in early April 2000. Again, in a joint effort, we bring you the second edition of the Maine Tribal Legislative News/Wabanaki Legislative Update, in one complete format. Items of interest are a history section and current issues, including an in depth look at the offensive names bill, LD 2418, sponsored by Representative Soctomah. Also, included are photos of Wabanaki Day, which was held at the Statehouse last session. We have charted our proposed bills for this short session with a brief expla­ nation of each one, as we did in the first edition. You have shown your support for these bills by attending the public hearings. Your presence spoke louder than words! If you have comments, concerns or questions, please do not hesitate to contact me either by telephone, snail mail, or e-mail, as follows: Telephone/Fax 207-737-2608 55 North Front St., Richmond, ME 04357 dmldab @wiscasset.net I wish you health and happiness for the new millennium. Yours in the Spirit of Unity, // . /vj, / * * /*<? ---- -/- Donna M. Loring Penobscot Nation, Tribal Representative Wabanaki Legislative Update Rep. Donna Loring 55 North Front S t, Richmond, ME 04357 Rep. Donald Soctomah P.O. Box 102, Princeton, ME 04668 Woliwon, Thanks, Donald Soctomah Tribal Representative, Passamaquoddy Tribe Printed at the expense of Representatives Soctomah and Loring �OFFENSIVE NAME TO BE REMOVED FROM PUBLIC PLACES Testimonials for and against LD 2418 - An Act Concerning Offensive Names —Patricia Smith Ranzoni, Bucksport Because of medical troubles I was unable to attend the hearing on the bill to remove the word “squaw” from M aine place nam es; and for same reasons do not feel up to the letter this subject deserves. Neverthe­ less, I must add my voice, and the voice of my family, to the record on behalf of this important legislation and appreciate the opportunity to in­ sert testimony, however inadequate, this way. From the time I learned we are d escended from E uropeans w ho settled on land belonging to Native Peoples, I have sought to educate m yself and our family on what is known and unknown about our part in history here as related to the tribes. This path could only lead to great sorrow, as well as humbling gratitude for an “old love, too, between us,” as I have written in my poetry in honor of generational relationships between some N ative friends and some in our line. It has long troubled me that our, M aine’s, First Peoples are routinely expected to support special efforts— days, conferences, discussions, occa­ sions, organizations, legislation and so forth— aimed at promoting “diver­ sity” and an understanding of and be­ tween other races and cultures here, while their own situation and dis­ crim in atio n s o ften rem ain o v er­ looked or discounted. The matter of the usage of squaw, a remnant of old thinking, in much the same way as “nigger” has come to be seen, is but one example. One can only guess how it must feel for tribal members to have to appear before a legislature made up of descendants of those who invaded and, by means not wholly honorable, as the record shows, took over their homelands, to ask for understanding in this matter of great meaning for their people. If M aine’s Native Peoples aren’t included in what is meant by recent efforts toward cross-cultural respect, then the easy term “diversity” rings hollow; and without the hard and painful work to hear and act upon what is needed to make things right, is nothing but a hollow, false, and cruel term with little more meaning than any other social fad. From reports in the newspapers, tribal representatives and members have articulated most clearly, pas­ sionately, and successfully the ratio­ nale for their request. They are their own indisputable source. I want to speak, also, as a woman here. Having no right to call M aine’s first and least known women “sis­ ters,” I nevertheless, stand with them in outrage against the reality of what this word has meant in their lives. That non-Natives have inexcusably endowed this word with shame, here and around the world, is irrefutable, having been docum ented through both folk and scholarly histories. It can never be righted but through changes the Natives, themselves, ask for in order to retrieve their honor. Please listen. Let it not, again, be solely about the lesser profit of business, but this time, about the greater profit of hu­ man respect. We cannot undo what has been done, but we can begin new, now that we know. We can return the mountains, rivers, islands and points to the Native women of this place in this way. First, proclaiming sorrow for what has been taken, then invit­ ing them to name these places in a new spirit of presence we can honor, protect, and celebrate with them. Please. For our family, ancestors and de­ scendants. please turn to page 3 Maine’s Native Americans Gain Passage of LD 2418 by Representative Donald Soctomah As we enter a new millen­ nium, I have hope for a better relationship between the native population and the State of M aine. In order for us to achieve this improved relationship, we must end 400 years of hurt and discrimination. We must learn to live together peacefully, by hon­ oring and respecting each other. This hope was the motivat­ ing factor behind legislation that would end the use of a demoral­ izing and dehumanizing term in the State of Maine. The passage of this bill by the Maine House or Represen­ tatives and Senate will soon be signed into law by Governor Angus S. King, Jr.. It w ill rem ove the word squaw from place names in the state. This is not an issue of politi­ cal correctness. It is about basic human decency and respect for one’s fellow citizens. The new law protects an under repre­ sented group in our state, native women. Our wom en-grandmothers, mothers, and daugh­ ters, are all entitled to protection against basic human rights vio­ lations, such as the use of demor­ alizing language. The driving force behind this bill is hundreds of native women, who are con­ tinually offended by the use of this fensive, derogatory words. Native assaulted by two men, who con­ women have the right to define tinually yelled, “you dirty slang word. The Thesaurus of Slang iden­ themselves. squaw ” as they repeatedly tifies the word “squaw” as a syn­ We need to grow and under­ kicked her. onym for prostitute,, harlot, hussy, stand that the use of the term In 1998, there was a high and floozy. The dictionary identi­ squaw shows a lack of compas­ school fight that eventually fies this word as one that is used sion to human beings, it is hard turned into a racial incident. N a­ for the general population to imag­ tive girls were called squaws, to offend native females. After generations of exposure, ine how hurtful a word can be un­ this resulted in death threats be­ the word squaw is seen as a neu­ less it is directed toward them, ing painted on the walls. This new law sends, with tral word to the general public. But their culture, or racial background. Rep. Gerald Talbot worked great effectiveness, a goodwill to native females this word con­ tinues to be a slanderous attack diligently in 1974 to remove the message of understanding to the against them and their culture. ”N” word from place names in Native people of this state: Violent incidents occur more of­ Maine. He had to convince other Maine will stop sanctioning the ten near the native communities, representatives how hurtful and use of offensive words, which where the clash between cultures hateful this word is to Maine citi­ dehumanize and exploit the na­ zens and its visitors. tive people. still exists. During that floor debate, the The native people and the When native people name a geographic feature, such as a river offensiveness of the word squaw native communities of Maine, or a mountain, the term used will was questioned. Several represen­ askd for the passage of this bill describe a specific location, for the tatives stated that to the native to end the perpetuation of dehu­ ease of the traveler, or to denote population, it was an offensive manizing language that has been its spiritual significance. The term. This is not a new issue to used to define our women. It is never an aggressive act name of the Kennebec River de­ Maine, it is a 400 year old issue for a people to exercise their scribes the contours of the river. that needs to be stopped Nationally, Maine now joins right to self determination. It is Mount Katahdin was named to three other states which have re­ an intrinsic right that is woven signify the spirits of the mountain moved the word squaw from name into the fiber of values that this and its geography. The term squaw was not origi­ places. In North Carolina, the U.S. country was founded on. The following Cheyenne nally used for place names, as the Justice Department was involved word did not exist before the in the removal of the word from a proverb summarizes the point of 1600’s. It is not a linguist’s defi­ school system in March of 1999. this bill concisely, “A nation is There is no other word used to­ never conquered until the hearts nition of the original native word day which hurts native women as of its women are on the ground.” that is of concern, it is the way the Every time this defamatory term has been used to define na­ much as the word squaw. The term tive women in its current context. has been used as a slanderous as­ term is used, the hearts of our Through communication and edu­ sault in hate crimes; last year, a women take another blow. cation we can rid the state of of- native woman was being brutally OFFENSIVE NAME TO BE REMOVED FROM PUBLIC PLACES �FFENS aga'"S’have a chance to change women. We BLIC L° 2411-* " A tlensive Names from page 2 c l O come to be felt as the word whore that sexual connotation and to give the respect to Native women that they feels... dirty, degrading, and shameful. My people have suffered great in d ig n atio n u n d er w hite rule in Houlton for many generations. We did not have a land base before 1980 but for safety and community, our families settled in the same area.... always delegated to the least desirable land, tor behind the legislation, w hich would remove the word squaw from deserve. Being a Native man, and the father of seven daughters, I do not want to see them, or anyone else’s daughter, have to carry these verbal scars for the rest of their lives. This Bill will send, with great effectiveness, a goodwill message of understanding to the Native people of this State: That Maine will stop sanctioning the use o f offensive place nam es w ithin the State o f Maine. This is not an issue about political correctness; it is about basic human decency and respect for one’s fellow citizens. It is not a linguist’s definition of the original Native word words that dehumanize and exploit the Native people. The Native comm unities o f the Passam aquoddy, Penobscot, M aliseet and M icMac, including elected governmental officials of these Tribes, representing is of concern; it is the way the term has been used to define Native " ~ H“ w om en in its c u rre n t co n te x t. 7,500 people, have signed a resolu- Donald Soctomah Judiciary Com m ittee - C hairs Senator Longley and Representative Thompson. Today is an im portant day in Maine Native history. We are step­ ping forw ard to address a term , which has been used for many years to degrade and dehumanize native women. This was the motivating fac- . • r , „ Through communication and education we can rid this State of offensive, derogatory words, so that Native women will have the right to define themselves. This Bill seeks to protect an under represented group within this State, N ative Women. T hey are e n title d to p ro te c tio n against basic hum an rights violations, such as the use o f demoralizing language. The driving force be­ hind this Bill is the hundreds of Na­ tive Women, who are continually offended by the use of this slang word. To the general public, after generations of exposure, the word squaw is seen as a neutral word, but to the Native Women this word con­ tinues to be a slanderous attack against them and their culture. In ra­ cial incidents involving hate and physical violence this word is con­ tinually used to attack Native people. These incidents occur more often near the Native communities, where unfortunately the clash of the cultures still exists. We need to grow and understand that the use of the term squaw shows a lack of compassion for human be­ ings. It is hard for the general popu­ lation to imagine how hurtful a word can be unless it is directed at them, their culture, or their racial back­ ground. In other areas where the squaw word is used to define geographic features, we can enhance the history of the area by using the correct terms. For example, Squaw Mountain can be called M aquaso M ountain in honor of C hief K ineo’s mother to whom the legend refers. A nother place, called Squaw Bosom, makes a c o n n o ta tio n to w ard s N ativ e o f the Year of the Native Woman. We ask the State of Maine and the Federal government to recognize this d e c i ­ ration by stopping the use of the term squaw. One experience that is burned into my memory was coming home one day and seeing a big road sign at the end of our road that said SQUAW KNOLL. When I entered my home I found my mother in tears... she was so humiliated Can you for a moment im a g in e imagine how a black American finding a sign »ad e - e d by ,he ,„w „ gov—— ernment at the end of their road that read Niqger Knoll would feel? We felt no less insulted. My mother made my two brothers go down and remove the sign. It was a very courageous act because she knew that they could be charged with tampering with town property. But it was Today you will hear testimony on how the S .... word is being used against Native women. You need to listen because the vast general popu- m ore im portant to not allow our lation does not get to hear this, now people to be treated with such bla­ is the time for this to be told. tant racism. The sign did not return... I ask for passage of this Bill to the road now carries the name Co&an end the perpetuation of dehumaniz­ Road. ing language that has been used to Long before the current debate define Native women. It is never an over the word began we shared the aggressive act for a people to exer­ common experience of being taunted cise their right to self-determination. by the word squaw. Women of my It is an intrinsic right that is woven tribe describe the taunting they were into the fiber of values that this coun­ subjected to in the 60’s in downtown try was founded upon. Houlton as children and teenagers, being surrounded by local w hite youth giving their imitation (as seen -Brenda Commander, TYibal on television) of an Indian war cry Chief, Houlton Band of Maliseet and calling them squaws. N ative Indians young people did not venture down­ Good M orning. I come before town alone ... but even in the com­ you this morning as a Native woman, pany of others they were not safe­ daughter, mother of a daughter, and guarded from verbal assaults... and the Chief of the Houlton Band of it certainly did not come from young Maliseet Indians, to tell you how the people only.... it was just as likely to use of the word squaw has affected come from an adult. my life, and that of my mother... my I would like to be able to say that sisters... my aunt’s... and the lives of such things would not happen today all the women of my tribe. but I cannot. As recently as two years I have not spoken to even one ago, one o f our trib al eld ers, a Maliseet woman who is not offended woman, was standing in front of the by the use of the word squaw. We do C ounty courthouse in dow ntow n not know how the word originated... H oulton, w hen a group o f youth but we are certain it did not origi­ circled her doing their imitation of a nate from our tongue. We did not use war yelp, calling her ’squaw’. It was the term to describe ourselves; it was a devastating experience for her... cast upon us by the white settlers. We bringing back all the old hurts. are unsure of its original meaning, As a people who for so long have but we do know how it came to be not had a voice that was heard in used. It has been used to taunt and Maine we did not feel empowered to degrade us as women. The word has even think about addressing this is- s u e .... we are th a n k fu l to Rep. Soctomah, for bringing this issue to the public conscience and giving us a voice. —Emma Nicolar My name is Emma Nicolar. I am a 58-year-old Penobscot woman. I want to express my gratitude to those individuals who have worked so hard and persistently to get this bill where it is today. This “Act” is a long time overdue. I am a P en o b sco t In d ian woman— I am not a “squaw” al­ though I have been called that many times in my life. I don’t have the time to detail here how detrimental this societal abuse was to the develop- n ie ^ f ZZZZ. Z I won’t go into what I’ve had to do to heal from the pain that it inflicted, but I did heal. I was born on the Penobscot Indian R eservation in Maine in 1942 but grew up in other areas other than the reservation. My parents separated when I was around 4 years old and I went to live in Connecticut. My mother later put us in a foster home in Milford, ME. I was six years old then, and that is where I fvt& remember bevrvj det graded andmade to feellike “ doggie poo” (mild expletive) because I was an Indian. I went to live with my dad on Indian Island when 1 w as 11 years old, and went to Old Town schools. In gang units Old Town youths were famous for calling me and others “squaw”, dirty Indians, and making sexually unacceptable remarks. During the 1940’s and 1950’s what did anyone know of unaccept­ able behavior -next to nothing! I had to grin and bear whatever came my way. It was at this time, junior high I believe, that I began to develop a defensive attitude. Playing basketball or engaging in other athletic activi­ ties, if I was better at the game, the only way the non-Indian girls could put me down was to make remarks about my being an Indian, not just one - on - one, but always as a group/ gang. The chip on my shoulder grew during my teenage years, and at one time I carried a knife on me at all times and used it a couple of times when physically accosted by non-In­ dian boys. I went to live in M assa­ chusetts during high school with an older brother and had hoped that be­ ing Indian wouldn’t follow me there, but it did. My sister and I were the please turn to page 6 OFFENSIVE NAME TO BE REMOVED FROM PUBLIC PLACES �1999 WABANAKI DAY ATTHE MAINE STATE HOUSE �1999 WABANAKI DAY ATTHE MAINE STATE HOUSE �OFFENSIVE NAME TO BE REMOVED FROM PUBLIC PLACES Testimonials for and against LD 2418 - An Act Concerning Offensive Names fro p g 3 mae only two Indians in the school sys­ tem and we were never allowed to forget it. I have never been endeared by non - Indians for my ethnic back­ ground, but always the edge of dirt, filth, and second-rate citizen was present in their remarks. Needless to say I became an adult with no self­ esteem. However, I had one charac­ teristic which saved me - persever­ ance. I was going to survive in spite of all the name calling and hurt and I did. Today, I know all about bigotry, slander, prejudice, and how to pro­ tect myself from the hurt and pain. I ’ve watched the Native population of this country struggle, just as the Negro population has, to gain respect and dignity. You cannot get away with calling me “squaw” today be­ cause I know the laws and will use them against you. You cannot call my daughter names, or my son, and get away with it because I will come to their rescue if they can’t handle it themselves. I have held the current school system s acco u n tab le fo r p reju d ices d isp lay ed du rin g my children’s education. Squaw Valley, California, and Squaw M ountain, M aine, are two very beautiful places. I consider my­ self a beautiful person today, and will not tolerate being called “squaw” . Change these names in this new mil­ lennium, and transform these sites back to their natural beauty. If you must continue to use Native ethnicity as a basis for naming these sites, there are some beautiful names in the Native languages, which would be more appropriate. I have argued at another committee meeting about the use of the word “sovereignty”, as I argue today about the use of the word “squaw.” We as Native peoples never needed these words, we have always known who we are and have a lan­ guage to describe ourselves. These are your words, and “squaw” is a misnomer. I ’m sure we’re all famil­ iar with the description of this word in W ebster’s Collegiate Dictionary. But have you ever taken the time to find out what an Indian woman was called in her own language. Each tribal language is different but each tribe has a w ord, or d eriv ativ es thereof, for designating a N ative w om an or d e sc rib in g a N ativ e woman. Do these place names that contain “squaw” today have to have an ethnic tone? How far would you get today if you called these places “Frog M ountain” , “Nigger M oun­ tain”, or some such ethnic slur? We are adults today, and possess the power to make changes, and I pray to the power to my understanding that you will change all place names with the word “squaw” in it in the State of Maine. —Richard M. Doyle, Office of the Governor G ood M orning to the d istin ­ guished Chairs and Members of the Judiciary Committee. I am honored to be here this morning to testify in favor of L.D. 2418, an Act Concerning Offensive Names. This act would correct a defamation that has been perpetuated against Indian Women specifically, and Indian People in general. I will not condone this word by speaking it here today, but the bill specifies the word in question. This word has been used to defile Indian women ever since the European invasion of this land. You have been provided with the origins of this word by Represen­ tative Soctomah, MITSC, and oth­ ers, I will not go there. What I do want to talk about is how it feels to an Indian Person, obviously a male perspective, to hear someone use such a word. I have heard the “s” word many times in my life. Each time it has been used to inflict pain and stereotype Indian women. The word as I hear and perceive it denotes an Indian woman who is easy, an In­ dian woman who is promiscuous, a slut, a whore. When the term is used generally the meaning is intensified. Each time I hear this word I am of­ fended to the point of madness and disgusted that the dominant society allows and tolerates such racist lan­ guage. I have heard our women tell me about ex-boyfriends chasing them around in public calling them the “s” word loudly, having this term painted on a door or wall to brand them, and other arduous stories. I have heard for m yself white men saying things like “it’s Saturday night, guess I’ll take a trip to the res­ ervation and snag me one of those “s” words” (this from UMM staff), “better get home before my s” word goes on the warpath”, “the girl was so drunk out of her mind, if I didn’t know better I would swear she was a “s” word, as well as many other ex­ amples of racially loaded idiocy. This same type of racism is cur­ rently allowed by the State in the naming of businesses, geographic features, natural resources, sport teams, and all types of groups. The non - Native will try to tell Thompson, and members of the com­ you that these words are not offen­ mittee, I am Sharon Libby Jones, a sive or were not meant to be offen­ selectmen for the town Greenville, speaking against L.D. 2418. sive. I am a small business owner, a I hope that this committee under­ stands that the “s” word in today’s S ele ctm e n fo r the Town o f society is offensive to Native people. Greenville and a former State Rep­ There is no justification or explana­ resentative that represented District tion that can change the fact that this 111, which is located in Piscataquis term is racist. Others may try to tell County and includes 11 towns, two this com m ittee that banning this plantations and several organized ter­ word will infringe upon or even de­ ritories in Northern Maine. Several stroy part of another Indian language. of these unorganized territories are I do not accept this premise either, L ittle Squaw Tow nship and Big since this “s” word may be a bastard­ Squaw Township. L.D. 2418, An Act Concerning ization of an Indian word, changed in ignorance to classify and demean. Offensive Names, is a step in the I do not know of any Indian culture wrong direction for Maine. I think that would allow others to use their all of us here recognize the impor­ words to shame and attack their Na­ tance of the State’s history. We need to understand the state’s tribal cul­ tive sisters and brothers. L.D. 2418 goes further than just ture and history. Piscataquis County, banning a word, it seeks to officially for over 100 years, has recognized celebrate our Native Women for all and realized the importance of the they have contributed to the Indian Native American culture and history. family, the Indian culture, and to the Currently, the Piscataquis County State of Maine. It is a positive ap­ Economic Council has begun survey proach. Proclaiming this millennial research on the cultural heritage of year The Year of the Native Ameri­ the region. This research project will can Woman would honor all native be gathering information from his­ people while providing hope for the torians, storytellers, and traditional future that all people will be in har­ businesses. The information will be m ony, and m u tu al respect w ill catalogued and used to develop a a bound for one another. cultural heritage m ap, which w ill b e If it were up to my Tribe, this used to inform tbe citizens of tbe term, along with other racially offen­ State and our travelers to the region sive words, (excuse my language) of the richness of our history. such as “redskin” would be prohib­ We are m oving fo rw ard in ited and if anyone dare utter the Greenville with a Natural Resource word, then strict penalties would ap­ Education Center. The concept of this ply. But it is not up to us, it is up to facility is to house orientation and in­ the Maine Legislature to pass a bill terpretation services, educational that would make it known to all, that exhibits, on- and off-site programs, the State of Maine does not tolerate interpretive trails, and events that ex­ racism. That the State of Maine will plain and celebrate the unique natu­ not allow Indian women or any other ral and cultural heritage of the region. group to be publicly ridiculed, that Piscataquis County is the poor­ the State of Maine recognizes and ap­ est County in the State with the least preciates diversity, that the State of population of any other county. We Maine pays honor to Native Women are rich with natural resources, his­ for their strength, their accomplish­ tory, culture and pride. The Native ments, their vision, their compassion, Americans are very much a part of our history. their beauty, and their tolerance. Less than one week ago, I re­ Thank you for allowing me to speak my words and hope each of the ceived a Public Hearing Notice about members consider them in deliber­ this important Public Hearing. Since ating this matter. Please support L. then there have been several articles and notifications that were sent to the D .2418. Woliwon (thank you) naka Tahu citizens of the area. Tremendous feel­ ings, reflections on history, as well (and stop) as strong emotions, have been pour­ ing in from the Native Americans and citizens of the Moosehead Lake Re­ —Sharon Libby Jones gion. In less than 24 hours nearly 300 Greenville Selectmen people signed petitions that were lo­ and Former State Representative, cated in just a few of our businesses District 111 please turn to page 7 Senator Longley, Representative OFFENSIVE NAME TO BE REMOVED FROM PUBLIC PLACES �Speech to the 63rd Maine Legislature, in 1887 by Lewis Mitchell Representative of the Passamaquoddy Tribe of Indians I was authorized by the Passamaquoddy Tribe of Indians to come here before you for the purpose of making known to you what the Passamaquoddy Indians have done for the American people, and how we have been used by the American people and how we used them. In 1775 or 1776, in the struggle between Great Britain and America, your people came to us for assistance. You authorized Col. John Allan to speak to us and you said, “He is our mouth, believe what he says to you.” After many kind words and promises, Francis Joseph, who was the chief of the tribe at that time, accepted his offer. He promised to go and help his people gain their indepen­ dence. Immediately he sent his captains to different parts of his coun­ try to notify his people to prepare for immediate war. In a few days Francis Joseph gathered an army of six hundred men. At that time, and many years before that, the Passamaquoddy Tribe was the head­ quarters of the Abnaki Nation. Passamaquoddy Tribe can show you by a letter from Col. John Allan when he authorized the Passamaquoddy Indians to guard the coast form Machias to Passamaquoddy, and authorized them to seize the enemy’s vessels. And according to his orders we can show you by the affidavit, Capt. Sopiel Socktoma, with fifty others of his tribe, captured an armed schooner in Passamaquoddy Bay, and they ran her to Machias and gave her up to Col. John Allan. We know the Indians who served in that war are passed out of existence, but the Passamaquoddy Tribe helped the Americans in that war, and the tribe is still in existence, Now we bountily ask your attention to help us by letting the Legislature examine the pa­ pers and refer them to Congress, if they see fit. In the treaties of 1725, 1794, and Governor Dummer’s treaty of 1727, and in the laws of Massachusetts and Maine at their separa­ tion, we were guaranteed the right to hunt and fish forever. In the year 1854 or 1857 some dishonest person or persons pre­ sented a petition to the Maine Legislature, asking the State to sell the Indians’ land - Indians did not need it - so the Legislature passed a resolve, that a certain piece of land, situated in the Town of Perry, owned by the Indians, would be sold by public auction, on such day, at Perry (they must have arranged everything so they wouldn’t bid against each other) and that land was sold for the small sum of $500.00. The Indians opposed the sale of it. Now their firewood costs the Indians of Pleasant Point $ 1,500.00 a year. If that land had not been sold, the Indians would not suffer for want of firewood. Thousands of cords of cordwood have been cut, and wood is on it yet. The land cleared by the Indians was also sold. Now we claim again that this is not right. An Indian agent himself bought this land afterward and again when we lost the claim on the Islands the case Granger vs. Indians, we not only lost the claim, but $2,500.00 out of the Indians in favor of Mr. Granger. Just consider, today, how many rich men there are in Calais, in St. Stephen, M illtown, M achias, East M achias, Colum bia, Cherryfield, and other lumbering towns. We see a good many of them worth thousands and even millions of dollars. We ask our­ selves, how they make most of their money? Answer is, they make it on lumber or timber once owned by the Passamaquoddy Indians. How many of their privileges have been broken? How many of their lands have been taken from them by authority of the State? Now, we say to ourselves, these Indians ought to have everything they ask for. They deserve assistance. We are sent here to help the poor and defend their rights. Now, this plainly shows us how much worse a people of five hundred and thirty souls are, stripped of their whole country, their privileges on which they depend for their living; all the land they claim to own now being only ten acres. If one or two men in this body were Indians they would fight like braves for their rights. Now look at yourselves and see whether I am right or wrong. If you find any insulting language in my speech, I ask your pardon. I don’t mean to insult anybody, but simply tell you of our wrong. Testimonials from page 6 in the area. Yes Native Americans ganization, for years have promoted sign them as well. That is how strong the word “Squaw ” w hether it be our feelings are for the history of the Squaw Brook, Little Squaw Brook word “Squaw.” Campground, hiking and biking trails The im p o rtan ce of the w ord throughout the Townships, on menus, “Squaw” is not only important to the signs, Squaw Mountain Resort and h e rita g e o f the area b u t to our G olf Course and our magnificent economy locally and Statewide. Big Mountain called “Big Squaw Moun­ Squaw Mountain, an internationally tain”. known ski area in Big Squaw Town­ Think for a moment the impact, ship, is very important to our area. economically and historically, on this T his M ou n tain at one tim e was unique area of the State. The follow­ owned by the State. Located on ma­ ing D epartm ents w ould have to jestic M oosehead Lake are wonder­ change many statues and regulations ful areas such as Squaw Bay, Squaw and maps of the area. All Business Point and Squaw Point Subdivision. Brochures, The Town of Greenville, The State owns a cam pground on Emergency Management Agencies, Squaw Brook. The water supply for The Department of Transportation, the Town of Greenville comes from The Departm ent of Conservation, a well located in Little Squaw Town­ The Department of Inland Fisheries ship. The Town has a sanitary land­ and Wildlife, The Health and Infor­ fill in Little Squaw Township. There m atio n C en ter (EM S law ), is a growing industrial park located Piscataquis County Law Enforce­ in this Township. We have a boom­ ment Agencies. ing snow m obile industry located We have recently had completed throughout Little and Big Squaw areas for the E-911 system that con­ Townships, and Big Squaw Moun­ tain the word “Squaw” . The evacua­ tain. The trails systems (ITS 86 plus tion designation for our immediate local trails) in these areas are some area is Big Squaw Mountain. the best in the State. Think what this change would do (Expenditures per Snowmobile for the State Forestry Division in our for a resident are near $600.00 and a area. They maintain an immense and nonresident $1,100.00). Businesses, complex system for Forest Fires Pro­ the S tate o f M ain e and the tection. Moosehead Lake Region Chamber Please do not remove forever the of Commerce, the Moosehead His­ word “Squaw” from the Moosehead torical Society, our schools and the Regions heritage by passing this leg­ islation. Thank you. Shaw Public Library, International Seaplane Fly In Or­ Partial listing of organizations supporting the elimination of “Squaw” from name places in Maine TribesAroostook Band of Micmacs Passamaquoddy Tribe at Motahkokmikuk (Indian Township) Houlton band of Maliseets Passamaquoddy Tribe at Sipayik (Pleasant Point) Penobscot Nation United South and Eastern Tribes, Inc. (23 federally recognized tribes) Other Native OrganizationsAIM Daughters of the First Light IRATE NACHME Wabanaki Mental Health, Inc. Administration of Governor Angus S. King, Jr.Maine Indian Tribal-State Commission Religious OrganizationsCatholic Diocese of Maine Episcopal Diocese of Maine, Committee on Indian Relations Friends Committee on Maine Public Policy Maine Council of Churches Maine Holocaust Human Rights Center Other OrganizationsBlack Education and Cultural History, Inc. (Former Representative Jerry Talbot, Founder) Hall-Dale Middle School Civil Rights Team Maine AFL-CIO Maine Civil Liberties Union Maine Human Rights Commission Maine Lesbian Gay Political Alliance Maine Women’s Lobby NAACP National Coalition Building Institute____________________________ _ �Protection of Indian Archeological Sites In the spring of 1999 the 119th Legislature passed the following Resolve requiring the study of the issue of looting and vandalism of Native American archeo­ logical sites, and preparation of a report recommend­ ing solutions: Resolved: That the Maine Historic Preservation Commission and the Representatives of the Penobscot Nation and the Passamaquoddy Tribe jointly shall con­ duct a review of the threats to Native American ar­ cheological sites from looting and vandalisfn and re­ port their recommendations for implementing a moni­ toring or stewardship program for site protection and preservation. The review must also involve the fol­ lowing law enforcement agencies: the Maine Warden Service, the Maine Forest Service, the Bureau of ma­ rine Patrol, and local and state law enforcement. The review must also involve the Native American com­ munity and other interested parties. To fulfill this legislative charge, Arthur Spiess held a series of meetings with Donald Soctomah in August and September 1999. Spiess, Soctomah and Represen­ tative Donna Loring also met on September 8, 1999. Then Spiess met with the law enforcement agencies mentioned in the legislation and held discussions over the telephone during September through December 1999. Donald Soctomah presented the legislation to inter-tribal meetings for discussion. Comments were sought form the board of the Maine Archeological Society. Late Breaking News The bill is designed to provide increased protec­ tion for archeological sites. It amends the definition of an archeological site on state-controlled land to include a site judged eligible for listing on the national Regis­ ter of Historic Places by the Maine Historic Preserva­ tion Commission and approved by the appropriate land managing agency director or local governing body. Current law requires the site to be listed on the Na­ tional Register of Historic Places. It also makes the unlawful excavation of a pro­ tected archeological site a Class E crime for which a fine of not less than $250 must be adjudged. The court may order the defendant to pay an amount equal to the reasonable cost of a proper archeological excavation, had the area that was unlawfully excavated been prop­ erly excavated. A provision that an emergency archeological site designation may be made for a period not to exceed 10 years and that the Director of the Maine historic preservation Commission and the landowner shall specify in writing the area that is the subject of such a designation. It provides funding for increased monitoring of archeological sites. This funding supports a part-time monitoring coordinator using existing part-time project personnel and site monitors. It also provides funds for the development and delivery of training materials for law enforcement officers. On March 3, 2000, on the morning show at 7:30 a.m., the KISS 94.5 DJ, Stan Marckoon advocated over the public airways to call the new Sacajewea Dollar the “Squaw Buck.” Those of you who wish to express your feelings on this issue, may write to the Station Manager at the following address: Mr. Mark Osborne Co-owner/General Manager KISS 94.5 Radio Station PO Box 9494 Ellsworth, ME 04605 For further information, you may also contact: Jessica Sockbeson McGregor 1410 Essex St. Bangor, ME 04401 Tel: (207) 990-2613 Fax: (207) 947-7840 E-mail: jsockbe@aol.com Census 2000 Be s ir e to fill out your census 200 0 form . I t is imperative th at Tribal Members be counted in the New Millennium TRIBAL ISSUES BEFORE THE 119™ SECOND REGULAR SESSION LD # an d Bl T itle il LD 2178 An Act to Amend the Act to Im plem ent the Maine Indian Claims Settlem ent Concerning the Houlton Band o f Maliseet Indians Com m ent b y R ep. Loring I am in favor o f the bill as written. The Maliseets should be sovereign as are Penobscots and Passamaquoddy. Rep. Sherman o f Houlton reluctantly sponsored by request; he was 7 0 % against the bill in com mittee. Com m ent b y R ep. Soctom ah Strongly support. The Maliseet Band should have the same rights as the Passamaquoddy and Penobscot. C urrent B illS ta tu s Public Hearing held 1 /2 8 /0 0 ; was tabled for 30 days so all parties could reach agreem ent on language and c o n ten t Failed to pass in Committee. LD 2418 An Act Concerning Offensive Names I completely support this bill; should be a "No Brainer." The bill disallows the use of Squaw or squa by the State in naming public or geographic sites. I t does not elim inate usage from the English language. This word has always been offensive, in effect, used to demoralize native w om en. They are the foundation o f a healthy community. The State must stop sanctioning its use. Public Hearing held 1 /2 8 /0 0 in Judiciary com m ittee; passed in both the House and Senate; now awaiting Governor's signature. LD 2499 An act Concerning the Date by Which Land Must be Acquired by the Penobscot Nation I am the sponsor of this bill. The bill will extend the deadline by which the Nation can purchase certain trust Support for this bill will help the Penobscot Nation put the remainder of land in Trust. The never should have been a tim e limit. All of the Paper Co. land around our com m unity was recently sold. Public Hearing held 2 /9 /0 0 in Judiciary com mittee; passed in both the House and Senate; now awaiting Governor's signature. lands from 1 /3 1 /2 0 0 0 to 1 /3 1 /2 0 2 1 . LD 2549 An Act to Im plem ent Recommendations Concerning the Protection of Indian Archeological Sites I am in favor o f implementing the recommendations that will preserve these sites. A Resolve passed last session shows th e concern felt for protection o f these sites. Maine must protect the sites, as w e have in the past. Public Hearing held on 2 /2 8 /0 0 ; passed 13-0 in committee; awaiting final enactm ent. LD 3210 An Act to Change the Name in the Statutes of a Native American Organization Able to Issue Hunting and Fishing Licenses I am in favor of this bill as long as the organization works closely with Allows an off-reservation group to issue licenses from Native the tribes to eliminate any duplication. communities' governing leader. Passed Committee; is currently in Second Reading in the House of Representatives; awaiting final The bill is sponsored by Rep. Brooks a t my request. Hopefully, the com mittee will vote to recommend a stronger role in both the House and Tribal Representatives w ant and need Report Pending. to play a m ore active role in the legislative process. Every bill passed affects our communities in one way or another. Joint Study Order Establishing a Committee to Study the Recognition o f Sovereign Nations in the Legislature Senate for tribal representatives. enactment. LD 2607 An Act Concerning Previous Passamaquoddy Indian Territory Legislation I am in favor of the Legislature taking corrective action. A corrective am endm ent should be effective to change the law that was plainly intended by all parties to the process amending the Im plem enting Act. Referred to the Com m ittee on Judiciary matters on March 7, 2000. LD 2572 An Act to Fund the Cost of the W aiver of Tuition, Fees and Other I am in opposition o f passage o f this measure, as it will only serve to I am against the passage of this bill. Received Unanimous Ought Not to Pass report. Expenses for Native American Students in the Maine Technical destabilize our funding base. College System, University of Maine System and Maine Maritim e Academy 1 1 � https://www.dawnlandvoices.org/collections/files/original/f14de8084f14269ea05de18bd26b49e6.pdf 854a8bbd674c471ee6fa9eb9e568ca5b PDF Text Text �������� Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Other Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource <em>Wabanaki Legislative News </em>(Spring 2000) Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Loring, Donna M. and Donald Soctomah Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived University of New England Maine Women Writers Collection Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 2000 Contributor An entity responsible for making contributions to the resource Cathleen Miller, UNE Meredith Ricker Rights Information about rights held in and over the resource Donna M. Loring and Donald G. Soctomah. Used with permission. We thank University of New England for making digitized copies available. Language A language of the resource English Type The nature or genre of the resource Document Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource pdf https://www.dawnlandvoices.org/collections/files/original/8e107ca6acdd2f6f264a1240818deb4e.pdf 6f36872df1cdb9d254196e91587b79de PDF Text Text Dear Tribal Members, It has been a tremendous honor serv­ ing you over the past eight years. Thank you for electing me. I have truly enjoyed working for you in the House of Representatives. It is a time in my life I will never forget. It made my decision not to seek reelection as the Tribal Representative a very difficult one. I struggled with this decision for months. As you may or may not know I have decided to run for the State Senate. I have been a by-stander of sorts in the legisla­ ture watching events unfold. After eight years of advocacy I ’ve decided to take the next step and run for the Senate. I believe I have made a difference for Native people in Maine. I would like to take that experience and make a differ­ ence for the people in my Senate Dis­ incumbent Republican, an Independent trict as well as all of Maine. As a State and I. Win or lose it will be one more Senator I will be the most knowledge­ barrier broken, one more step up the lad­ able legislator on Indian issues. For those der of equality and one more trail to of you who are curious about my Dis­ blaze. It is my understanding that no Maine trict it is District #19, Sagadahoc and one town in Lincoln County (Dresden). It in­ Indian has ever run for a Senate seat. I cludes the following towns: Richmond, plan to keep a journal and pass it on to Bowdoin, Bowdoinham, Topsham, Bath, those who will learn from my experi­ W est B ath, P hippsburg, A rrow sic, ences. Georgetown, Woolwich, and Dresden. Again, thank you for this opportunity. They are all in the Merrymeeting Bay I will always be yours in the spirit of area. I am running as a clean election unity and power. Donna M Loring, candidate meaning that I cannot take Penobscot Nation Representative contributions. It is a three-way race, an Thoughts about the Next Tribal Representative Whomever you choose to take my place must be a person who thinks of the tribe first and foremost. A person who has an even temper, a sense of humor and compassion. A person who can put themselves last and can empathize with the pain of others. A person you can count on to be there when you need them. A person who can communicate well and often with people who are unedu­ cated about your culture and your his­ tory. A person who is not afraid to stand up and speak in front of 151 fellow leg­ islators. A person who does not respond in anger when others say horrible things about you or your community.(but rather responds with dignity and control) A person who has thick skin and can take taunts and criticism not only from outsiders but from tribal members and council members who are suppose to be supportive. A person who will work for practi­ cally nothing, will put in overtime and who must sometimes pay their own way. A person who does not expect to have many thanks in return. A person who works on a speech or a poem for days but still cannot find the right-words and then with the right words awakening them at three o ’clock in the morning. A person who has vision and imagi­ nation who will introduce the next bill that will improve your lives for the next one hundred years. A person who truly cares. A person who is touched by the an­ cestors woliwoni Wabanaki News has been an excellent communication instrument and should be continued by your next representative to the Maine State Legislature Maine Indian Basketmakers’ Alliance Director awarded International Prize On October 15,2003, Theresa Secord Hoffman, a member of the Penobscot Na­ tion, received a prestigious international prize in Geneva, Switzerland, for her work as director of the Maine Indian Basketmakers’Alliance. The “Prize for Women’s Creativ­ ity in Rural Life,” sponsored by the Women’s World Summit Foundation (WWSF), was presented to Hoffman in a ceremony at the Palais Wilson, headquarters of the United Nations High Commission for Human Rights. Created in 1991, WWSF works primarily to empower rural women and women’s organizations, as well as non-government organizations committed to prevention of child abuse worldwide. The organization also seeks to mobilize citizens and organiza­ tions toward building a better global human society by organizing regularly “Circles of Compassion” training workshops. This is the 10th anniversary o f the W W SF prize, and Ms. Hoffman is the first United States citizen to garner the honor. Established in recognition of the roles of women in grass roots development efforts, the prize goes to individuals whose efforts demonstrate exceptional creativity, courage, and perseverancein improving rural life, along with respect for and preservation of the environment, and continuing impact on the community. This year, the WWSF prize jury is awarding 33 women from 23 countries around the world. Of these, five, including Ms. Hoffman, have been invited to attend the award ceremony in Geneva and to personally present their work. The ambassadors of each winner’s country will attend the event, along with other dignitaries. The keynote speaker and award presenter was to have been Mr. Siergio Vieira de Mello, the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights, but with his tragic death in the August bomb­ ing of UN headquarters in Baghdad, that role will be filled by the Acting High Com­ missioner, Bertrand Ramcharan (to be confirmed). According to WWSF Executive Director Elly Pradervand, “The necessity of em­ powering rural women remains undisputed and is a central objective in the strategies for poverty alleviation and ending hunger. The very survival of the human species depends on replacing old, tired, competitive Darwinian ‘male” models by more hu­ mane, open, cooperative ‘feminine models. And for that women need to come into leadership at all levels of society.” Elly Pradervand’s sentiment fits well with Theresa Hoffman’s conviction that co­ operative efforts strengthen communities and individuals at the same time. This is evident in WWSF’s summary of Ms. Hoffman’s accomplishments, which begins with this comment: “It behooves the Prize for Women’s Creativity in Rural Life that the first laureate from the United States be an American Indian— of the Penob­ scot Nation, one of four tribal groups living in Maine.” The commentary goes on to mark out Ms. Hoffman’s leadership role in helping to found the Maine Indian Basketmakers Alliance (MIB A)—an organization that many predicted would fail given the independent mindedness of the four tribal groups in Maine, not to mention that of basketmakers. However, thanks to the skills and dedication of the basketmakers and Ms. Hoffman’s vision, persistence, political acumen, and first-hand knowledge of the art form, the venture has blossomed. please turn to page 4 Community Building tszsinom, 72 fie * . Sy/m Zf fH �Wabanaki News page 2_____________________ ________________________________________ Summer 2004 LD 291 “An Act to Require Teaching Maine Native American History and Culture in Maine’s Schools” by Donna M. Loring, Representative o f the Penobscot Nation (M y greatest accomplishment!) LD-291 is now Maine law. It was passed by the House June 5, 2001 and passed in the Senate June 7, 2001. It was then signed into law by Governor Angus King on June 14, 2001 I am extremely proud to have been the sponsor of this bill. It is the high point of my legislative experi­ ence to date. I know it will make a difference in our future. This bill is the most innovative and comprehen­ sive piece of legislation in reference to the teaching of Native American History in the Country. No other State has created a policy that requires teaching Native American History in such detail and also provides the means to do it. The bill is made up of four sections: Sec 1 makes Maine Native American studies a re­ quired component of Maine studies, addressing the following topics: A. Maine Tribal Government and Political Systems, their relationship with local, State, National and Inter­ national Governments. B. Maine Native American Cultural Systems and the experience of Maine tribal peoples throughout history: C. Maine Native American Territories: and D. Maine Native American Economic Systems Sec 2 Creates the Maine Native American History and Culture Commission to help prepare for the inclu­ sion of Maine Native American History and Culture into the required course in Maine Studies. 1. Membership consists of eight members se­ lected by the Tribal Chiefs, six members appointed by the Commissioner of Education including an elemen­ tary school teacher, a middle school teacher, a high school teacher, a curriculum director, a superintendent or principal and an employee of the Dept of Education and one member selected by the Chancellor of the Uni­ versity of Maine System. 2. DUTIES: The Commission shall assist school administrative units and educators in the exploration of a wide range of educational materials and resources. Identify resources Involve other-knowledgeable organizations and Individuals able and willing to assist with this work including, but not limited to museums and educators. ** 3. Maine Indian Tribal State Commission will convene the first meeting of the commission no later than 30 days following the effective date of enactment. 4. REPORTING FINDINGS to the commissioner of Education and a copy to MITSC The report shall consist of educational materials, opportunities for pro­ fessional development, training and technical assis­ tance. 5. Staff assistance and Resources will be pro­ vided by MITSC and each entity. 6. Preliminary Report to the commissioner of Education for dissemination to educators in the State by June 1,2003. Sec 3 Report must include plan to assist school ad­ ministrative units. Plan must include criteria to iden­ tify school administrative units having difficulty meet­ ing instructional components. The plan for assistance must be established by July 30,2004 and implemented by 2004-2005 School year. Sec 4 School to implement Maine Native American Studies subject to availability of funds. School admin­ istrative unit must present findings and support evidence to department of edu­ cation that it cannot afford to implement the program. The dept of Ed shall review findings and assist in plan­ ning for implementation This bill is the result of support from the House, Senate, Governors office, the Maine Indian Tribal State Commission, Department of Education, University of Maine System, Tribal governments, grass roots orga­ nizations, interested Individuals and students. It was a tremendous effort and I thank you all. The Prim ary Election will be held on Tuesday, A uqust 10, 2004. The General Election will be held Saturday, S eptem ber 11, 2004 Polls will open for both at 9:00 AM and close at 8:00 PM. Voting in both elections will take place in the C onference Room at the C om m unity Building. M a in e’s Native A m ericans G ain P assage of LD 2418 A Salute to Rep. Soctomah’s groundbreaking b ill___ THANK YOU! by Representative Donald Soctomah A.s we enter a new millen- nium, I have Yiope for a better tinually offended by the use of this slang word. The Thesaurus o f Slang iden- tif'ies th e w o rd “ squaw ” as a sy n ­ relationship betw een the native onym for prostitute,, harlot, hussy, p o p u la tio n an d th e S ta te o f and floozy. The dictionary identi­ Maine. In order for us to achieve fies this w ord as one that is used this im proved relationship, we to offend native females. m ust end 400 years o f hurt and A fter generations o f exposure, discrimination. We m ust leam to the w ord squaw is seen as a neu­ live together peacefully, by hon­ tral word to the general public. But oring and respecting each other. to native females this word con­ This hope was the m otivat­ tinues to be a slanderous attack ing factor behind legislation that against them and th eir culture. w ould end the use of a dem oral­ Violent incidents occur m ore of­ izing and dehum anizing term in ten near the native com m unities, the State of M aine. where the clash betw een cultures The passage o f this bill by still exists. the M aine H ouse or R epresen­ W hen native people nam e a tatives and Senate will soon be geographic feature, such as a river sig n ed into law by G overnor or a m ountain, the term used w ill Angus S. K ing, Jr.. describe a specific location, for the It w ill re m o v e th e w o rd ease of the traveler, or to denote squaw from place nam es in the its s p iritu a l sig n ific a n c e . T h e state. nam e o f the Kennebec R iver de­ This is not an issue of politi­ scribes the contours o f the river. cal correctness.-It is about basic M ount K atahdin w as nam ed to hum an decency and respect for signify the spirits o f the mountain o n e ’s fellow citizens. The new and its geography. law p ro te c ts an u n d e r re p re ­ The term squaw was not origi­ sented group in our state,,native nally used for place names, as the w om efi. O u r w o m e n -g ra n d -. w ord d id ‘ n o t e x ist b efo re the m others, m others, and daugh­ 1600’s. It is not a linguist’s defi­ ters, are all entitled to protection nition o f the original native word against basic'hum an rights vio­ that is of concern, it is the way the lations, such as th e use o f demor­ term lias Been used to define na­ alizing language. T he driving tive womqn injts. current context. force behind this bill is hundreds- ’ 'T hroughcom m unication and edu­ o f native w om en, w ho are con­ cation we can rid the state o f of­ fensive, derogatory words. Native w om en have the right to define themselves. W e n e e d to grow an d u n d e r­ stan d th a t th e u se o f the term squaw shows a lack o f com pas­ sion to hum an beings, it is hard for the general population to imag­ ine how hurtful a w ord can be un­ less it is directed tow ard them, their culture, or racial background. R ep. G erald T albot w o rk ed diligently in 1974 to rem ove the ”N ” w ord from place nam es in M aine. He had to convince other representatives how hurtful and hateful this word is to M aine citi­ zens and its visitors. D uring that floor debate, the offensiveness o f the word squaw was questioned. Several represen­ tatives stated that to the native population, it w as an offensive term. This is not a new issue to M aine, it is a 400 year old issue that needs to be stopped Nationally, M aine now joins three other states which have re­ m oved the word squaw from name places. In North Carolina, the U.S. Justice D epartm ent was involved in the rem oval o f the w ord from a school system in M arch of 1999. There is no other w ord used to­ day which hurts native wom en as m uch as the word squaw. The term has been used as a slanderous as­ sault in hate crimes; last year, a native woman was being brutally assaulted by two men, who con­ tin u a lly y e lle d , “ y o u d irty s q u a w ” as th e y r e p e a te d ly k ic k e d Vver. In 1998, there w as a high sch o o l fig h t th a t e v e n tu a lly turned into a racial incident. N a­ tive girls w ere called squaws; this resulted in death threats b e ­ ing painted on the walls. T his new law sen d s, w ith great effectiveness, a goodwill message o f understanding to the N a tiv e p e o p le o f th is state: M aine w ill stop sanctioning the use o f offensive words, w hich dehum anize and exploit the n a­ tive people. T he native people and the native com m unities o f M aine, askd for the passage o f this bill to end the perpetuation o f dehu­ manizing language that has been used to define our women. It is never an aggressive act for a p eople to exercise their right to self determination. It is an intrinsic right that is woven into the fiber o f values that this country w as founded on. T h e fo llo w in g C heyenne proverb sum m arizes the point of this bill concisely, “A nation is never conquered until the hearts of its wom en are on the ground.” Every time this defamatory term is used, the hearts of our w om en take another blow. �Wabanaki News page 3 Summer 2004 Chief Dana has vision for the Penobscot Nation Strengthening the Penobscot Community is key Chief Barry Dana is well aware of having 10,000 years of history to live up to as a member and leader of the Penobscot Nation. It is what con­ nects him to that past which makes him the visionary leader the Nation needs now to continue building on its strength as a sovereign tribe in Maine. Chief Dana believes the best way to strengthen the Penobscot Nation is by strengthening the community. The best way to strengthen the com­ munity is to strengthen the family and that is best done by strengthen­ ing the individual. This is something he works toward every single day as the Nation’s elected leader. Chief Dana has also worked with many Tribal members to, among other things, create a nationally rec­ ognized Boys and Girls Club; create tribal laws protecting elders; create an Elder Advocate position; restruc­ turing the Home Improvement Pro­ gram which serviced 30 homes in 2003-2004 alone; create a cultural preservation department which re­ cently received a federal grant; be­ gin major restoration work and dam removal along the Penobscot River; and increase the Tribe’s visibility across Maine, New England and the country. He knows the future health of the Tribe is linked to economic and so­ cial health, and to that end Chief Dana works tirelessly to foster a cre­ ative and proactive environment that will allow Tribal members to pros­ per and live with dignity. He has served on the board of the highly suc­ cessful Four Directions Community Development Financial Initiative and has supported the development of an Elder Care Facility both of which have created jobs for Tribal mem­ bers. Construction of the new elder care facility begins later this summer and, when complete, will employ six additional people. He is the first to say none of this was accomplished on his own. In fact, one of Chief Dana’s greatest assets is his ability to recognize and place his faith in the strengths and abilities in others and his willingness to give them the freedom to succeed. Coupled with that is his refusal to be satisfied with the status quo. He is always looking for what the Tribe can do to benefit each individual and the Nation as a whole. Chief Dana is a man who makes people want to work harder and who is willing to take chances and the ini­ tiative. He will never ask anyone to do more than he is willing to do him­ self. His creativity and energy has opened many different doors for the Flat Stanley takes center stage at the Maine Legislature Bids farewell to House Speaker Colwell and Senate President Daggett Flat Stanley is a school project of a middle school in Indiana. One class in that school sent him to Maine so he could visit new places. The object was that photos would record his adventure here. The photos would then be sent back to the middle school class as a part of their project. Rep. Donna Loring moved him around to several places in the Maine State Legislature, with a lot of fun. Top left Flat Stanley was invited to be in a photo with the House Joint Standing Committee on Judiciary; top right, Rep. Donna Loring shows Flat Stanley to House Speaker Patrick Colwell. Bottom left, Rep. Loring poses with Senate President Beverly Daggett and Flat Stanley. Bottom right, Flat Stanley bids fairwell to Senate President Daggett. �Summer 2004 Wabanaki News page 4 Chief Barry Dana’s historic State of the Tribes Address to the Maine State Legislature on March 11, 2002 TR IB U TE TO CHIEF DANA man or Stateswoman has probably been Kkwev. Hello President of the Senate, Mr. Bennett, Speaker of the Hoi ;se of Representatives, Mr. Michael Saxl, Madam Chief Justice, Governor Angus King, Distinguished members of the House, Distinguished members of the Senate, Members of the Passamaquoddy Tribe, Members of the Penobscot Nation and Citizens of the State of Maine. Kkwey To all who are present here today and to those who may listen on the radio out­ side these walls and to those who may read about this, I ask that your ears hear my words so that you will know what I have said. I ask for your minds to be open so that you will understand my intent. I ask that your hearts feel my commitment to bring honor to my family, my tribe and to our state that we all now share as our home. Woliwoni. Thank you. It is an honor and a privilege as Saugama, the Chief of the Penobscot Na­ tion, to be here on this historical day, ad­ dressing the joint session of the 120th leg­ islature. Woliwoni. Thank you. Today’s address symbolizes what I truly believe to be anew era in Tribal/State relations. Relationships are based on com­ munication. Today’s forum allows for direct communication. Perhaps our great­ est days lay before us. Nivan penawepskewi. I am Penobscot. Nivan penawepskewi. I am a human more responsible for bridging the gap of misunderstanding between our two gov­ ernments then anyone else of our time. The dedication of this individual is appar­ ent with the passage of such bills as: *P.L. 625-where the tribes received the extension on trust land acquisition. *Co-sponsoring the efforts to include portraits of outstanding Indians in the capi­ tal, (When I first heard this I thought I heard an Act to have famous Indians stand­ ing outside the capital). *Co-sponsoring P.L. 613, an act to re­ move offensive place names and *Being a primary sponsor of P.L. 403 L.D. 291, an act requiring the teaching of Maine Indian history in primary and sec­ ondary schools. Please join me in honoring the Penob­ scot Nation’s Representative to the legis­ lature, DONNA M. LORING. Before I discuss the current issues fac­ ing my tribe, the Penobscot Nation, let me first set the framework by which the Pe­ nobscot Nation’s government operates. Only through education can we ever hope to eliminate stereotypes and put an end to all forms of racism. The Penobscot Na­ tion is a Tribe. Tribes here in this country pre-date the creation of the States and the Federal government. In the creation of the U.S. Federal Govt., the founding fa­ thers recognized the Tribes as distinct forms of government, with inherent sov­ ereign powers to ensure the birth given rights to be self-determined. The 1980 Settlement A ct recognizes being from the Penobscot River. M y grandfather, as his before him w as th e se p ro tec tio n s o f in h eren t so v e re ig n a pack basket maker, ariver guide, ahunter and worked on the Penobscot log drive. My grandmother, along with raising a large family, tended a garden, was a sweetgrass braider for the fancy basket makers. In my youth, I was fortunate enough to have spent many hours in their presences, hearing the stories of the “old days.” From my grandparents, as well as other tribal elders, is where I learned my culture. Though these elders have joined our an­ cestors, their values, their love for our cul­ ture, memories of the old days and their passion for preserving our traditions live on in the pride of my people. Nevan Penawepskewi. I am Penobscot. I am thankful for my mother, a proud Penobscot woman. In her 60 plus years of living on the Penobscot River, she has witnessed many changes for our people. From facing the bitter winds of winter, while walking across the ice, paddling across the quick spring currents to go to and from school, to driving her first car across the infamous one lane bridge. My mother has worked as hard as any man in the Old Town Shoe factories to becoming the Penobscot Nation’s Tribal Clerk, she has stood in the cold November rains at my High School football games (inciden­ tally, she could never understand why 22 young men would fight over one funny shaped ball). She has strived to make a better life for her family and her people. Please join me in honoring a proud Pe­ nobscot woman, (Recognize my mom, Lorraine Dana). Nevan Penawepskewi. I am Penobscot. I would like to recognize another out­ standing Penobscot, who in keeping with our proud history of being talented States­ powers. The Senate Committee on Indian Affairs, in their review of the 1980 agree­ ment recognized and ratified our retained sovereign powers and sited the 1st Cir­ cuit Courts decision, “that the Maine Tribes still posses inherent sovereignty to the same extent as other tribes in the United States.” Thus, rather than destroy­ ing the sovereignty of the tribes, by rec­ ognizing the power to control their inter­ nal affairs and by withdrawing the power which Maine previously claimed to inter­ fere in such m atters, the settlem ent strengthens the sovereignty of the Maine Tribes. The very essence of Tribal Sover­ eignty is the ability to be self-governing and to protect the health, safety and wel­ fare of our people, within our own terri­ tory. We are a distinct people with a unique history. Though it has been a struggle to retain these powers of self-government, that preserves our distinctiveness, we have done so. Despite how people outside our tribe perceive us, we are first and fore­ most an Indian tribe. From thousands of years ago, the bones of our ancestors still lie on the shores of Maine’s rivers and ocean frontage. We still carry on their dreams, their pride and the traditions of self-determination and these we all hold sacred. We will continue to fight to safe­ guard these rights, in honor of our ances­ tors and in order to preserve a future for our children. Failure to do so would mean surrendering the very essences of who we are as Indian People. We are proud of our place in history and the many contribu­ tions we have made to the larger society by assisting in common goals. We are still here. It has been a privilege and an honor to work with Chief Barry Dana. I have seen the Penobscot Nation make tremendous progress Chief Dana was first elected in 2000. The Nation at that time was stag­ nant and basically just marking time until it would disintegrate into history. Chief Dana is a leader who is not afraid to take control and get out in the public eye and fight for our rights and for our survival. He continues to do this. Since Chief Dana has taken office progress has been started in the areas of environmental protection, housing for the elderly, youth pro­ grams, economic development, edu­ cation, cultural preservation, commu­ nication and more. We cannot afford to be set back twenty years. We must look to the future. Theresa Hoffman Chief Dana is the strong, ener­ getic and aggressive leader we need. It is my hope that he continues to be our Chief. Thank you Chief Dana for your vision, creativity and your past four years of service to the tribe. Donna M. Loring, Representative o f the Penobscot Nation from page i MIBA is credited with reviving an imperiled art—so effectively that over the last decade the number of trained tribal basketmakers has grown from 50 to 120. More­ over, the average age of MIBA members has dropped from 63 to 43 (which means more young people are making baskets). Members offer periodic workshops on the reservations and MIBA also sponsors a demanding year-long basketry apprentice pro­ gram. In addition the organization is also fueling language preservation efforts by encouraging elders who teach basketry to do so in their Native languages—Maliseet, Micmac, Passamaquoddy, and Penobscot. Ms. Hoffman, with the support of MIB A’s board of directors and staff, spearheaded effective marketing efforts that have included opening an elegant gallery/shop, publishing an 86-page guide to basketry and other traditional Native American crafts in Maine, and collaborating with the Abbe Museum in Bar Harbor on the annual Native American Festival and the Maine Indian Basketmakers Market at the Hudson Museum on the University of Maine’s Orono campus. Such efforts have given Maine Indian basketmakers a high profile throughout the state and nation. T h e result is aneariy tenfold increase in the safes value of baskets, making basketry a viable livelihood. According to Rebecca Cole-Will, head curator of the Abbe Museum, “ThroughTheresa’s leadership, MIBAhas developed into a vitally important organization that continues to cultivate a vibrant and growing Wabanaki crafts community. In addition to the economic benefits of MIB A’s work, the strength­ ening of the crafts tradition has proven critical to preserving the cultural identity of the Wabanaki and to raising the self-esteem of craftspeople.” According to another Penobscot leader, Donna Loring, who serves as tribal representative to the Maine state legislature, “Two years ago, I initiated legisla­ tion, the Maine Indian History Act, requiring all public schools in Maine to in­ clude in their curriculum lessons concerning the culture and history of the state’s original inhabitants. That bill passed, and Theresa’s work is playing a vital role in its implementation. Her efforts have been, and continue to be, tireless and self­ less. They have increased the self-worth of Native people, fostered cross-cultural interaction and understanding, prodded people to think in terms of sustainable development, and made a very tangible difference in the economic livelihoods of many rural Indian families across the state.” A small sampling of the other winners of this year’s Rural Creativity award: A Betty Makoni from Zimbabwe established empowerment programs for sexually abused girls. A Byatshandaa Jargal of Mongolia setup various programs to counter malnutrition. A Marta Benavides of El Salvador works for peace, justice, and economic opportunity for indigenous peoples A Haoua Baraze from Niger led a fight for educating girls. A N ’Dw Sene of Senegal mounted an effective challenge to unauthorized tourism development. A Victoria Adetona established a micro-credit organization for women. A Wang Fengyan of China set up an angelworm-breeding network for rural women. (Angelworms improvel soil fertility.) A Khalida Bibi Awan of Pakistan created a local seed bank and also opened a small vocational center in her home. A Francisca Eugenia of Cuba transformed a garbage dump into an organic garden. A Aurora Carmona of Columbia launched many projects, including community and family gardens that greatly increase food security. A Neela Thangavelu of India organized some 140 women’s self-help groups representing over 3000 women and led a successful struggle to regain peasant land. For more information, visit the WWSF website www.woman.ch where profiles of prize winners past and present are posted. Mailing address: Women’s World Summit Foundation, PO Box 2001,1211 Geneva 1, Switzerland. (Phone: +41 22-738.66.19) �Summer 2004 Wabanaki News page 5 Chief Barry Dana speaks out on TV after stunning defeat of casino vote Statement from Barry Dana, Chief of the Penobscot Nation Wednesday, Nov. 5,2003 Nothing has changed. Maine on Nov. 5, 2003 is the same as Maine yesterday, and the day before that, and the day before that. A Maine which is home to thou­ sands of hardworking people and families - Native and non-Native alike - who want nothing more than to stay here, to work here, and raise their families here. A desire that has become more and more difficult with each passing year even as our state govern­ ment promises economic opportunities for all. Nothing has changed. My people have lived with these hollow promises for 500 years. Promises from state leaders combined with lies, scare tactics and intimidation to keep a majority of the state’s wealth, power and resources in the hands of a select few. On Nov. 5 there are still two Maines. Two Maines delineated not by any geographic boundaries, but drawn along straight economic lines. The wealthy minority wanted to stay just that. A minority in a state with thou­ sands of residents living near or below the poverty level. Thousands of residents facing each day with no health insurance. Thousands working two or three jobs to cobble together a weekly wage equivalent to a day’s salary for the wealthy elite. Once again this elite used all the power and influence their money could buy to keep Maine the way they want it to be. The Penobscot-Passamaquoddy Casino was a good deal for Maine. And everything that made it a good deal made it a bad deal for the big business status quo. An abundance of good paying jobs and benefits. A huge influx of cash into the state’s coffers over which they had no control. The real hope and opportunity for economic prosperity for some of Maine’s poorest residents living in its poorest regions. Now, thanks to the efforts of a group who never looked beyond what was good for them, those poorer residents can stay right where they are. They can continue to collect welfare and work multiple jobs. Casinos No! is celebrating a victory today. They have a lot to celebrate. Thanks to them, hundreds of thousands of textile and manufacturing jobs which have left Maine in the last five years will go un-replaced for the foreseeable future. They can congratu­ late themselves on a fight in which lies, media manipulation and the exploitation of children in advertising were all used to further their smallminded agendas. They are joined in this celebration by our current and former governor. Two elected officials who used their political clout to pull the economic rug out from under so many needy people - the very people who put them in office in the first place. I am saddened that so many people were drawn into the opposition’s lies. This ought not to have been, but they had our own state governor doing much of the work for them; leading them from the back of the pack in speaking out against what we were offering. Today, these same politicians will resume their promises of amorphous economic opportunity zones and tax incentives as solutions to Maine’s joblessness. None of it puts real Mainers back to work. But maybe it allows the governor to sleep at night. The casino was a real solution offered by the Tribes to all of Maine. Something we - as a minority - were ready to share with the 97 percent white/non-Native population of the state. We had hoped the governor would hear the message that people need to work, they need jobs, they need hope. This was to be our gift to Maine. That, too, has not changed. As a people, my tribe is accustomed to the snubs and affronts from state officials. There are many in Maine - in and out of government - who are best served if we stay quietly on our reservations weaving baskets. While we are a proud people with proud traditions, we are also a people of lawyers, doctors, teachers, therapists, builders, farmers and students. People who would like to stay in Maine but who are finding fewer and fewer opportunities to do so. If it was simply a gaming issue, not even our governor could have spoken against it. Not as the leader of a state which welcomes and sponsors gaming in a state-run lottery, scratch tickets and multiple venues for off­ track betting. During this campaign I have spoken to people from all parts of the state. I have looked into the eyes of elders who no longer have jobs or homes thanks to the industries which have left. One thing I have learned even in the face of the hatred and ignorance from the opposition - is that there are good, proud people in Maine. People who understood this was about more than gaming. Along with eco­ nomic freedom for all Mainers, this referendum was also about sover­ eignty and Native self-reliance. I have seen the unification of Natives and non-Natives behind this crucial issue and this campaign brought it into the living rooms and coffee shops of Maine. So maybe something has changed, after all. People are starting to see a lack of integrity and honor in our political leaders and their methods in getting their way. People are starting to see that Maine lacks real leadership and there are some very ugly realities in Maine government. In the end, we did not get a Casino or the 10,000 jobs and $100,000,000 for education and property tax relief. There are no positive changes on the economic horizon. But maybe we did get something as important: the unification of a number of diverse groups working for tribal sovereignty for Maine’s Native citizens and economic hope for all. My people have been here for 10,000 years and we will be here for another 10,000. We are used to fighting for all that we have. But we are also used to extending our hands in friendship. We will continue to offer our gifts and our hope to all who can see beyond lies, deception and fear. We walked a long road on this campaign and made many good, true friends on the way. To all of them and all of those who supported us I extend my sincerest gratitude and say thank you. In the words of my people, Wuliwoni. Barry Dana, sagama penawapskewi Moving on after defeat letters@TimesRecord.Com 11/14/2003 Chief Barry Dana’s sharp re­ sponse to the 2-1 defeat of the Penobscot-Passamaquoddy ca­ sino question was unfortunate (Nov. 6, “Penobscot chief: ‘There are still two M a in es’”). But th e r e ’s som eth in g everyon e should realize. The two leading casino pro­ moters made an amazingly quick exit and weren’t around to help the tribes navigate the political fallout. Lawyer Tom Tureen who spearheaded the campaign and Think About It’s spokeswoman, Erin Lehane, both left for vaca­ tions 36 hours after the election, The Associated Press reported. Not that they didn’t deserve rest from their labors, but they left the tribes to face the aftermath of a highly charge race with no assistance and that seems cold. If they’d stayed around a few more days, they could have eased the disappointment and tempered I Chief Dana’s remarks. I ¥ ortuivateVy, most \ » e o a r v d groups castigated by the tribal leader’s remarks will be gracious enough to move on. In fact, Gov. John Baldacci hasn’t wasted any time in reaching out. Wednesday he met with the leaders of four Maine tribes: the P en ob scot, Passam aquoddy, Micmac and Maliseet. He has di­ rected the state Department of Economic and Community De­ velopment and his staff to meet with tribal leaders within the next 30 days to work up an economic development strategy, The Asso­ ciated Press reported. Also, mem­ bers of his staff will attend up­ coming tribal council meetings for that purpose. Equally good news is the fact that Chief Dana said he now re­ alizes that the casino question was not defeated because Mainers are prejudiced toward the tribes. He understands that it was defeated based on issues raised during the campaign. In the year long discussion of the casino question on these Opin­ ion pages, some contributors la­ mented that it was difficult to vote “No” without having an alterna­ tive to offer M ain e’s N ative Americans. We commend Gov. Baldacci and the tribal leaders for setting out toward that goal so quickly. We may have lost the battle but we have not lost the war by Donna M. Coring As the Penobscot Nation’s Repre­ sentative to the State Legislature I would be remiss in my duties if I did not re­ spond to your editorial “Moving on Af­ ter defeat” published in your paper on Friday November 14, 2003. The photo chosen for use by the Times Record was the same Associated Press Photo the Portland press selec­ tively chose and clearly misrepresented the tenor of the meeting. The Bangor Daily News photo by Kevin Bennett at the same event on Thursday November 13th would have been more accurate. It showed Chief Dana seriously speaking to the news media. Governor Baldacci touted the meeting as one to strategize for economic development for the tribes. The truth is the Chiefs and Tribal Rep­ resentatives agreed to attend this meet­ ing not because of wind mills or any other economic project but because the Governor of the State, who represents the people of the State, requested a meet­ ing. We simply agreed to attend out of respect for the people of Maine. We went to listen to what he had to say and no promises were made from either side. Further move I strongly disagree with your comm entary about Chief Dana’s “Sharp response to the 2-1 de­ feat of the Passamaquoddy and Penob­ scot Casino question.” You called the statement he issued after the November 2nd defeat “unfortunate”. I call it cou­ rageous and commendable. For the first time in history, a Pe­ nobscot Sagama (Chief) stood up pub­ licly to those in power in this State and represented his people. Chief Dana put words to the wounded spirits of his people. The Penobscot people were hurt deeply by the tone and tactics of the elec­ tion. Chief Dana was only expressing the deep heart felt feelings and beliefs of his people. As Sagama he could do no less. For you to say that Tom Tureen or Erin Lahane would have had any influence over him in this regard is paternalistic, ludicrous, and m arginalizes Native people. The Penobscot will move on from this learning experience as we have for the past five hundred years. We have made many friends during this journey and we will look to them for help in the future. We will survive as a people and as a culture. In conclusion, I restate; your view of Chief Dana’s “sharp response” is completely and totally opposite from mine and as the Representative of the Penobscot Nation it is with great pride and honor that I call Chief Barry Dana, Sagama. Woliwoni �Summer 2004 Wabanaki News page 6 MEMORIES �Summer 2004 Wabanaki News page 7 �Wabanaki News page 8________________________________________________________________________________________________ Summer 2004 Taking a Stand: March on the State House for Water Protection “Tribal members and supports gather at the steps of the statehouse to deliver the court ordered tribal paperwork to the paper companies. The Tribal Governors of the Passamaquoddy Tribe and the chief of the Penobscot Nation lead the march to Augusta to deliver the court ordered papers. After a two year battle in the Maine courts and a rejected hearing in the Federal courts the Tribes had to deliver paperwork concerning environmental issues, so the paper companies can review them. This was a very sad day in State and Tribal relations. The people of Maine sided with the tribes on the issue of clean w ater, as supporters followed the tribe to the statehouse steps. This was a long walk, 40 miles, starting at the 1724 Norridgewock village site, an area of another disaster...... ” Rep. Soctomdh From the birchbark canoe, the Passamaquoddy people trav­ eled the coast of Maine and New Brunswick Canada, har­ vesting just enough food for the families and leaving the rest for nature to consume. On a successful hunting trip the canoeist uses the moose call­ ing horn to sign his return. Here on Grand Manan Island the invisible line between the United States and Canada has divided the traditional lands of the Passamaquoddy tribe.___ MARCH FOR TRIBAL , SOVEREI GNTY r \ M T P F WA TER PROTECTION Rep. Loring speaks out Rep. Soctomah with his sister Madonna after the March A m essage from Penobscot Nation Governor Barry Dana on W ater P r May 23rd, Norridgewock, Maine on the shores of the Kennebec River, we gathered at 5 a.m. to begin our March to Augusta. This was a civil rights style march to bring public awareness to our struggles to have the State of Maine recog­ nize our sovereign status. This peaceful march helped us educate the people of the State as to who we are and our status as a tribe. Fifty people, both Indian and non-Indian completed the march covering 39 miles. News media reporters joined us, interviewed us and helped spread the message. We concluded the walk at the Augusta Civic Center. The next morning we met at the Civic Center but this circle included 150 people. We all walked the remaining three miles from the Civic Center to the steps of the Capitol. On the steps we delivered our speeches to the audience, which again in­ cluded the media. Our message was clear, that the State, its courts and paper industry has violated the 1980 Settlement Act by invading internal tribal matters by requesting to in­ spect tribal documents. On those steps we were joined by members of the Coalition to Support Tribal Sovereignty, the Chair of the Maine Indian Tribal State Commission, the Presi­ dent of the United Southern and Eastern Tribes, the co-founder of the the 42 mile route we received many horns and thumbs up in support. Maine Peoples Alliance, all who gave eloquent speeches in support o f our „ efforts. This event brought much needed attention to our struggles. A ll along People across the State are drawing the conclusion that the fight for sovereignty as well as the efforts for a casino are all about desire to be self. . . . reliant, self-governed and independent. � Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource <em>Wabanaki Legislative News </em>(Summer 2004) Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Loring, Donna M. and Donald Soctomah Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived University of New England Maine Women Writers Collection Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 2004 Contributor An entity responsible for making contributions to the resource Cathleen Miller, UNE Julia Brush Rights Information about rights held in and over the resource Donna M. Loring and Donald G. Soctomah. Used with permission. We thank University of New England for making digitized copies available. Language A language of the resource English Type The nature or genre of the resource Document Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource pdf Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context DV-477