Subject: Something from Bob Zilli I thought important to share. |
Author: Anonymous
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Date Posted: 12:51:28 07/23/01 Mon
As witness to the ongoing struggles of the Cherokee people, it is obvious that we are our own worst enemy. While it is fashionable to criticise the United States government, and surely they are more than worthy recipients; the truth is that the people themselves are so downtroden that helplessness would appear to be somewhat of a
blessing.
In the Cherokee Nation, its business as usual. A small percentage (around 10%) of the Nations registered voters actually participate. As in third world countries, which in fact it is in many ways, the power block has all the money, the resources and the ability to control who goes in and out of the Chief position. The average cost for a tribal election war chest is over $100,000 leaving the average
Cherokee little or no hope of involvement in the process.
In the last election, Dwight Birdwell, a highly respected but nonetheless, out-of-the-loop (not a contradiction!) former Supreme Court Chief Justice, ran for Chief. His campaign fund; endowed mostly with small, "average joe" contributions, was a litle over $20,000. He lost by a decisive margin.
Meanwhile, no sooner did the newly placed council get comfortable in their seats than they voted themselves a substantial pay raise with percs that the average Cherokee only realizes by watching syndicated DALLAS reruns. A group of angry voters, foolish enough to exercise their right to petition for a rescining of the raise, were rewarded with legal action by the council-paid for by the Cherokee Nation. The message is clear here.
While the focus of disgruntled Cherokees has been the Chief (Chad Smith), the real evil of this cancer is the perspective of "get what you can" that seems to run rampant within the 14 business and governmental arena. Their are no less than seven banks on the "golden corrider" of Tahlaquah. All owned by white businessmen. All holders of Cherokee Nations fund. I,in all my worldly travels, have never seen a town of 20,000 with seven banks.
There have been a number of attempts to procure a grasp of the governing body by the people. All have been subdued and crippled by the power structure that holds the reins.
You can see Cherokees at the Cherokee restaurant. You can see Cherokees at the Cultural Center. You can find Cherokees spread throughout the 14 county area living their lives often in spite of the National government that they wish they were a part of.
But until they are seen owning the banks, running the businesses and participating in the process of community, there is only a flag and a dream
Bob Zilli
reprinted from American Indian Action, JUNE 2001
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