CARCIERI V. SALAZAR

New BIA head turns attention to Carcieri, gaming
Swearing in passes, business begins

By Rob Capriccioso
Story Published: Jul 3, 2009
Story Updated: Jul 2, 2009

WASHINGTON – Larry EchoHawk’s June 26 swearing in ceremony was a brief moment of respite from pressing Indian country matters for the new BIA chief as he now becomes steeped in issues of great importance to tribes, including the infamous Carcieri v. Salazar Supreme Court ruling and gaming concerns.The ceremony was one of overall joy and thanks. There was dancing, drum beats and many happy Native faces. Several in attendance expressed confidence in EchoHawk’s abilities.“Today is not a day for long speeches,” said EchoHawk, a member of the Pawnee Nation of Oklahoma. “It is a day for solemn oaths, a day for thanksgiving, and a day for prayers. I am honored to have been entrusted with this responsibility.

EDITORIAL FOOTNOTE: Just recently, a reader informed me that Bruce "Two Dogs" Bozsum, was sending letters to people in Washington D. C., stating how there was a need to pass new laws, that would allow tribes to put land into trust under the B.I.A.

That is a good thing Chairman Bozsum. Are you a little late to the party?

Where was he and the other Tribal Councilors, recently at the rally put on by the Narragansett Tribe, in Providence, Rhode Island? Doesn't he live in Rhode Island?

Only three tribal members, showed up in support of the tribe in Providence. They were Tribal Councilor Mark Hamilton, Ken Davison, and myself.

Mark Hamilton, spoke to the crowd and said, that the only way to address the situation, was to pass new legislation in Washington D. C.

How come our (the Mohegan Tribe) leaders didn't organize our involvement? HOW COME THE TRIBE DIDN'T GO? How come we were not there? Do you know? What do you think?