Tuesday’s (May 4th) public hearing on "An Act To Implement the Recommendation of the Task Force on Changes to the Maine Indian Claims Settlement Implementing Act" has been postponed.

 

During the time allotted for the public hearing tomorrow, LD 1626 sponsor Rep. Rachel Talbot Ross will testify on the bill. The Judiciary Committee will then table the bill. The bill will be carried over for the 2nd session of the 130th legislature.

 

There will be a public hearing next session on the legislation so there will be ample opportunity for those who have not submitted testimony, written or verbally, to testify. All written testimony submitted WILL be part of the record and carried over into the next session.

 

The support has been tremendous and is greatly appreciated. As of 4:30 [yesterday] there were 147 people who submitted testimony in favor of tribal sovereignty with just four in opposition. With this type of support, we will be successful as long as we keep organizing and using our voices for fairness, justice, and equity. Change comes when we’re moving forward together.

 

While we understand the frustration that this decision may cause, it is also an opportunity to keep our energy and collaboration around this important issue growing and changing the way tribal matters are viewed in Maine. We have formed a coalition that we are so very proud of and thankful for. We know that the support and advocacy have already shifted the narrative around amending the Settlement Act and restoring sovereignty. The dedication and vision of tribal leaders, tribal citizens, allies, neighbors, friends, and countless organizations is something we are deeply appreciative of and it keeps us optimistic for the future.

 

This is a time to celebrate the movement we’ve all built and will continue to build.

 

Indigenous people stand on the shoulders of our ancestors who were silenced and oppressed in our homeland. We all honor their powerful legacy of stewardship, self determination, diplomacy, and being connected to the land and one another. We will be ancestors someday and we are showing our descendants how we keep our values and life ways strong. By supporting the Wabanaki Nations you are honoring the resilience that has sustained our people. You are part of our journey to healing.

 

Tribal leadership and allies look forward to gathering more momentum for the legislation prior to the next session. The clear and sacred message that we are sending will echo through history: tribal sovereignty needs to be recognized for the Wabanaki Tribal Nations and it is beneficial for all of Maine. We are excited to see how we can make history, together.

 

Keep in touch at www.WabanakiAlliance.com

 

Kci Woliwoni,

 

Maulian Dana

Penobscot Nation Tribal Ambassador

Wabanaki Alliance President